This is the message being touted by members of the Ararat Men's Shed, who have just celebrated the first anniversary of occupying their `shed' at Richardson Oval.

The Shed was the former Ararat and District Junior Football Association clubrooms and when it became vacant the opportunity arose for members to open an Ararat chapter of the Men's Shed in the premises, which have since been fully refurbished.

The Men's Shed provides space for men to get together, spin a yarn or two and use specialty equipment to work on projects.

The Shed is particularly ideal for those men who have retired or those now living in units or retirement accommodation who no longer have a shed in the backyard.

''It is ideal for those who enjoy companionship and the opportunity to work with their hands,'' Men's Shed treasurer Don Koglin said.

Currently the Men's Shed has around 12 members, with eight who regularly attend.

Equipment available to use at the shed includes wood working equipment, wood lathes, welding equipment, steel fabrication equipment and there is also equipment for gemstone cutting, but currently no-one who knows how to use it!

A recent visit by Mr Koglin to the Ararat Retirement Village unearthed a treasure for the Shed.

''In an endeavour to attract more members I went to Gorrinn House and spoke to the gentlemen who live in the independent accommodation,'' he said.

''Through this meeting a resident, Jeff Pendlebury, offered to donate a wood lathe to the Men's Shed.''

This lathe is now being put to good use by the members.

Mr Koglin has gained great satisfaction out of being involved in the Men's Shed.

''The main benefit for me has been companionship,'' he said.

''I live alone and it does start to get a bit lonely and it's great to have people to talk to.''

The Shed has plenty of room for expansion and the group would love to have more members join.

Mr Koglin encouraged all retired men at a `loose end' to come along to the Ararat Men's Shed on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons between 1pm and 4pm, with the cost just $2 per session.

''It's a matter of letting people know it's there and for them to take advantage of it,'' he said.

Monthly barbecues are held to which families are invited.

For further information contact president Charlie Martin 5352 1206.