MenzShed accommodating MGC

A volunteer group of handy men are guiding keen local girls through woodworking and construction lessons in a community-focused workshop.

After Marlborough Girls’ College MakerSpace students showed an eagerness to get hands on hardware for their 2025 projects, Blenheim’s MenzShed was happy to help with both machinery and manpower.

Blenheim MenzShed members Peter Carter and Glen Doggett were on hand for students learning to manufacture bookshelves, seats and birdhouses.

“Last year, MGC MakerSpace students were stuck with trying to make electric bikes, and needed welding done with proper electrical equipment so we were pleased to make the connection,” says Glenn.

“To me it’s unfortunate they have to come to us, but we’ll help anyone in the community who needs help, whether it’s Marlborough Girls’ College students, the retirement village next door looking for ramps, or the Equestrian Park looking for cross-country horse jumps”.

And with years of experience from across many trades, Peter says they’re here for the love of getting their hands dirty.

“We can’t compete with tradies, they’re doing it hard as it is, but when people bring in family heirlooms like an antique chair or rocking horse where they can’t find anyone to fix it in a cost-effective way, we’ll jump in.

“All we ask is a fair donation towards our time, slash running costs and any materials we use - sometimes it’s just payment by chocolate biscuits.”