The Beautification Trust’s Boomer Shed has been hard at work crafting new projects for our communities. Over the past few weeks, the Boomer Shed has been working to build three gorgeous planter boxes for a local kindergarten, BestStart Papakura, to grow their own garden of fruits and veggies.
One of our collaborators and supporters, Auckland Councillor Daniel Newman, reached out to us on behalf of the kindy asking if this was a project the Boomer Shed might be interested in. We were more than happy to be involved! The project also received support from Bunnings Takanini and Harvey’s Papakura who helped contribute to the cost of the timber.
The boxes were crafted with care and dedication. They were specifically painted white to allow the kids to add their own designs and truly make these planter boxes their own. Our team along with Boomer Shed member, Bob, had the pleasure to drop them off at BestStart Papakura last week. The kids were elated when the planters were brought in, and we can’t wait to see their progress as they create the garden of their dreams.
The planters were not the only thing the Boomer Shed wanted to share with the kids. As part of a 3R pram wheel repurposing project, the Boomer Shed built three balance bikes as a surprise with the delivery of the planter boxes.
3R, one of our recycling partners, recently dismantled some old prams and buggies. To ensure a circular solution and prevent the wheels going to landfill, the Boomer Shed acquired them. Some wheels were distributed to other Menz Sheds, while the Boomers designed a balance bike using plywood and the repurposed wheels. They even incorporated an adjustable bike seat into their design! Currently, the Boomers are working on their first batch of 25 bikes, aiming to produce a total of 75 that will be distributed to worthy causes in the community.
After bringing in the planter boxes, three balance bikes were brought in and the kids immediately took interest, bustling to get the first ride! They spent the rest of the morning riding them around with big smiles across their faces.
As a thanks to our Boomer Shed for their hard work and dedication, the kids made everyone involved a brightly coloured ‘Thank You’ card. After receiving the planter boxes, the kids presented a card to each of our team, which was a heart-warming moment for everyone. The kids were so excited about their new gifts, and it was an honour to be part of such a rewarding project! We hope BestStart Papakura loves their new garden and bikes, and we will provide updates when the planter boxes are all decorated and planted.
Located at the Beautification Trust, the Boomer Shed is a community shed for people over 50, providing a welcoming space for people to learn new skills and express their ingenuity through community and individual projects. The space is fully equipped with an engineering and woodworking shed. If you are interested in joining, visit the Boomer Shed website.
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