Times have changed, but the Tin Shed in St Albans has remained an important part of the community.
The Tin Shed, also known as the St Albans Youth Community Centre, is marking its 60th anniversary and residents are being invited to help celebrate.
The centre opened in 1964 as a police boys’ club, offering a range of recreational activities such as gymnastics and dinner dances.
Before long, girls joined in on the fun.
“There wasn’t much to do in the area, so they formed the club to keep the everyone busy,” co-ordinator Elfie Haggblom said.
Lorna Cameron headed up the Tin Shed for its first 50 years, after which she retired.
Today, the centre is open seven days a week, and most nights, offering many activities for all age groups, from judo to crafts.
The centre also provides material aid for people in need.
“If people are wanting some kind of advocacy, or if they just need basic things like food or clothes, we can provide that,” Ms Haggblom said. “We provide an avenue to help people help themselves. We also provide some really affordable, and some free, activities, and we’re very family oriented.”
The Tin Shed, which is used by about 1000 people every week, is funded by the Department of Human Services and Brimbank council.
A celebration will be held at the centre, at 309A Main Road East, St Albans, from 1-4pm on June 21, including games, a photo exhibition and light refreshments. For more details, phone 9366 4302.
