Creative Sparks at Sandgate Men's Shed
Since opening its doors in 2010, Sandgate Men’s Shed has become a vibrant and creative hub for men in Brisbane’s north. Based on the Brighton Health Campus and home to around 80 members, the Shed offers a welcoming space where men of all ages and abilities can connect, share skills, and get involved in various hands-on activities.
From traditional woodworking and metalwork to walking groups and creative crafts, there’s something for everyone. During a recent visit, I met Pete who was carefully assembling an intricate stained glass panel - his skills in glasswork adding to the rich tapestry of talents at the Shed. Whether you’re building furniture, repairing tools, or trying something new, the Sandgate Men’s Shed is a place where creativity and camaraderie go hand in hand.
Tucked away in a quieter section, the faint scent of wood smoke lingers in the air as a group of men hunch over their workbenches - pens in hand, but not the kind you’d write a letter with. These are heated metal tools, and the men are practising the centuries-old art of pyrography - drawing with fire.
The pyrography group includes members of all experience levels - from those who have recently picked up a burning pen to seasoned practitioners whose intricate designs showcase years of dedication. The group also includes four regular NDIS members, with the Shed fostering a space that is full of encouragement, inclusion, and mutual respect. Kevin a member of the Shed, shared his personal journey with pyrography.
After suffering a stroke in 2019 that impaired the use of his right side, Kevin began attending the Shed as part of his rehabilitation. With support from his wife, who is an artist, and drawing on his own experience in photography, he took up pyrography as a way to rebuild fine motor skills and express his creativity. “The machinery and tools that generate heat - it's not as easy as it looks,” Kevin shared, “but it gave me purpose again.”
Now, Kevin not only creates and sells his work but is also preparing to exhibit alongside fellow Shedders at the Redcliffe Agricultural Show. His story is one of many that illustrate the deeper impact the Shed has - supporting men, building confidence, and connection through creativity.
“Pyrography is great because anyone can give it a go,” one member explained. “You don’t have to be an artist. It’s more about taking time, trying something new, and enjoying the process.”
The benefits of pyrography go well beyond the artwork itself. The repetitive, detailed motions help improve fine motor skills, and the concentration required provides a calming, almost meditative experience. Even though the work is individual, doing it in a group setting opens up conversations, friendships, and plenty of laughter over morning tea. “There’s something about sitting together, all working on your own pieces, but still chatting and swapping tips,” said another member. “Then you knock off for morning tea and it’s just like any good mates’ catch-up.”
At Sandgate Men’s Shed, it’s not just about making things- it’s about making connections. Whether it’s wood, metal, glass, or fire, the tools might vary, but the purpose remains the same: supporting men’s health, creativity, and community spirit.
