National Men’s Shed Gathering 2026 Brings Shedders Together in Brisbane
The 11th AMSA National Men’s Shed Gathering 2026 brought the Men’s Shed community together in Brisbane from Tuesday 24 to Thursday 26 March for three inspiring days of connection, learning and mateship.
Co-hosted by the Queensland Men’s Shed Association alongside the Australian Men’s Shed Association, the Gathering welcomed more than 250 attendees from 95 sheds, along with national and state representatives from across the country.
Held under the theme Building Healthy Communities, the event showcased the powerful role Men’s Sheds play in supporting wellbeing, strengthening communities and fostering lifelong connections.
From the outset, the program offered something for everyone. Day one saw Shedders head out on a series of popular shed tours across Brisbane, visiting local sheds, community organisations and iconic locations. These tours set the tone for a Gathering built on sharing ideas, skills and stories.
Day two began with the much-loved Shedder’s Big Breakfast in the Botanic Gardens, followed by a plenary welcome from the Chairman of the Australian Men’s Shed Association, Luke Clifton. The day featured a full program of presentations and workshops. Topics ranged from building resilient, thriving Sheds to advancing men’s health and wellbeing to strengthening community impact. Australian Men’s Shed Attendees also heard from a range of engaging speakers, including adventurer Mark ‘Squiz’ Squirrel, who shared insights from working in some of the world’s most challenging environments.
The final day continued with thought-provoking sessions and wrapped up with the iconic Shedder’s Dinner and National Men’s Shed Awards—celebrating the remarkable achievements of sheds across Australia. Queensland sheds were well represented among the finalists and winners, highlighting the strength and innovation of the local shed network.
Special guests added to the occasion, including QMSA joint patrons Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young, who delivered a special welcoming address, and Professor Graeme Nimmo, RFD. Special Envoy for Men’s Health Dan Repacholi MP also spoke at the Shed Awards Dinner, while popular Australian entertainer John Paul Young provided a memorable evening of music and nostalgia.
Throughout the event, the spirit of the Men’s Shed movement was on full display - whether during workshops, over breakfast conversations, or on a morning walk through the gardens. Opportunities like The Man Walk reinforced the importance of connection, conversation and supporting one another.
For the Queensland Men’s Shed Association, it was a privilege to support and co-host such a significant national event on home soil. The Gathering not only celebrated the achievements of sheds across Australia but also sparked new ideas and strengthened networks that will continue to benefit communities long after the event concluded.
Welcoming Addresses
A highlight of the Gathering was the official addresses, beginning with Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM, Governor of Queensland, who attended with Professor Graeme Nimmo RFD in their role as Patrons of the Queensland Men’s Shed Association. In her address, the Governor spoke warmly about the power of connection at the heart of the Men’s Shed movement and the vital role sheds play in supporting men’s wellbeing and strengthening communities. This was followed by an address from QMSA Chair Lawrie Bingham, who reflected on the life-changing impact of sheds across Australia and the importance of continuing to grow and support the movement into the future. You can read both addresses below:
WELCOMING ADDRESS: given by Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM, Governor of Queensland.
WELCOMING ADDRESS: given by Mr Lawrie Bingham, Chairman of the Queensland Men’s Shed Association.
Browse our event photos.
Like to add yours? email info@qmsa.org.au.
Remember, behind every photo is a story—of friendships formed, ideas shared, and communities strengthened.
