Date: 3 August 2011
Second visit to service as a subscribed member
During this visit the researcher was involved in the following activities (listed chronologically). Areas will be expanded upon in subsequent notes.
• 9.30am Arrival to setting and discussions with IM and D (Treasurer and secretary)
• Monthly committee meeting
• Smoko
• Continued involvement in woodshed project
• 12.30pm Departure
9.30am Arrival to setting and discussions with IM and D (Treasurer and secretary)
Upon arrival at the shed R meet with IM and D who had set up the meeting room for the committee meeting. R asked how the Shed meal had gone on the previous Friday and received very positive feedback. In subsequent discussion during the morning other members spoke of enjoying the evening and meeting member’s partners.
IM advised R that there was to have been a delegation visiting from Alexandra but this has been delayed until the following Wednesday. This group is looking at setting up a shed in their region and are keen to tour the Taieri Shed and Kings sheds and meet the members.
Monthly committee meeting
The monthly committee meeting started at 9.30 sharp. There were approx 15 members in attendance with 5 more arriving 5-15 minutes into the meeting. Below are the R description of the meeting process, agenda, and member input.
• The meeting had a clear procedure and process with distinct roles played. Upon later questioning the treasurer, secretary and a number of the other group members had committee experience.
• Attendance was taken and minutes from the last meeting read and seconded.
• The treasurer reported on the current financial position including all completed projects, received grants, and out goings. This was followed by general points of business.
• Feedback was sought on the meal the previous Friday evening. Members commented on the quality of the food, as well as the opportunity to meet members partners. This lead to latter discussions about the important roles wives and partners play in supporting the shed. As an example two of the wives are catering the morning tea for the up coming visit from the Alexandra delegation. The R has made a note that he should take future opportunities to interview wives and partners of shed members. Other issues from the meal included 2 unpaid glasses of wine. This was presented to the group in an open manner and payment was sought if a mistake had been made.
• Sponsorship for the shed had been obtained from a local real-estate agent for LJ Hookers. IM read the formal agreement between the shed and the agent. Sponsership obligation required advertisements on letter heads from the shed and encouragement of members to use his services. In return the shed offered exposure of his services and open access to the shed. The shed has also asked that the client promot the shed to any clients he may have.
• In the past few months a young 14 male has been attending the group. He has been supported by his parents and accepted by the group on a trial basis. His official membership was raised as a point of general business. A number of members were positive in their comments noting his willingness to get involved, knowledge of construction and problem solving and good nature. One member stated he was a ‘good kid’ this was met with agreement. A motion was passed to grant membership on the proviso that this was agreed upon by his parents and that he wore correct safety equipment while at the shed. A number of members voiced concern for his hearing and sight and referred to their own sensory loss as a result of trade careers.
• D and R talked about the planning of a shed blog. The meeting had the previous day was outlines and a plan was made to present more information and visuals to the group at the next meeting. The expectation of contribution from all members was raised. Discussion was had around the form this might take i.e. photos, reports, project work etc.
• The committee had been sent a men’s shed survey which was looking at the formation of a national body. This was dismissed without conversation amongst the group. As previously stated there appears to be a security in the current shed community and members do not see the need to join a larger association. This will be checked as a theme in the future amongst members.
• Members were reminded of the visit from the Alexandra group next week and the catered morning tea.
• The meeting was called to a conclusion at 10.15
Smoko
During smoko the R became aware of the donation made for tea and coffee (gold coin). He paid extra this week to make up for his free coffee’s in previous weeks.
Continued involvement in woodshed project
12.30pm Departure
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