(Community Recognition Statement, 8 May 2024, Legislative Assembly, NSW Parliament)

On behalf of the Sydney electorate, I commend the City North Men's Shed's projects and members' contributions. This new group has established a new organisation and shed, procured machinery and tools, and trained and prepared members to build things. Shed members built, decorated, and installed 20 street libraries for children in Darling Harbour for International Children's Literacy Day, with support from Placemaking NSW. The libraries had over 350 children's books in 20 languages, with many donated by their respective embassy and local residents. The collection included Indigenous Australian story books from the Indigenous Literacy Foundation. I proudly opened the installation earlier this year. Shed members also made rowing scull storage rack supports for the North Shore Rowing Club and have been refurbishing toy electric cars donated by Therapies for Kids that will then be passed on to children with limited mobility. They even built the benches that are now used for new projects. Members learn new skills while also building something that is useful, contributing to both the local area and community harmony. I commend the City North Men's Shed for their engagement and positive contribution to the inner city.