UNPAID fines can trap many of those who’ve fallen foul of the law in a spiral of stress and isolation. 

But the Cockburn Community Men’s Shed has a set of tools that’s helping them to build their way out.

Through a partnership with the Department of Justice’s Adult Community Corrections initiative, fine defaulters have been able to work off their debts and community orders at the shed for the past five years. 

Senior community work officer Jeremy says the program gives people a sense of purpose and pride.

• Cockburn’s sheddies celebrate their win.

“When we bring them here, they can pay the fines off and it eases that stress, and it gets them out meeting people as well,” Jeremy said.  

What they find is perhaps an unexpected brush with the justice system. 

Instead of the stereotypical image of orange suits and rubbish pickers, they cut timber, learn new tools, garden, build things from start to finish, and most importantly, learn through personal stories of other men.

The shift from punishment to purpose helped make Cockburn the best shed in the country. 

Last month it was named 2026 Shed of the Year from more than 1,200 across Australia. 

“There are more Men’s Sheds than McDonalds in Australia,” according to shed coordinator Mark Hemmings.

He said the culture of the place did the heavy lifting. 

Regular members join sheds to improve their health and wellbeing and fight off isolation.

“It’s very harmonious; we’ve never had an issue,” Mr Hemmings said of members working alongside the ACC participants. 

He says they’re “very proud” of accepting people from all walks of life. 

The same openness has transformed lives among the shed’s regular members too. 

Mr Hemmings said one bloke arrived three years ago after a difficult divorce and financial collapse who was timid, reclusive and close to breaking point. 

“He told us of a time where he was at a suicidal point. 

“If it wasn’t for the shed, he wouldn’t be here today.” 

Corrective services commissioner Brad Royce said the ACC program also benefited from the opportunity the shed provided.

“That’s what corrections is about, creating hope and opportunity for people who have made mistakes by enabling them to participate and make a real contribution to society,” Mr Royce said.

So far, no ACC participants have come back as members, but Mr Hemmings said  they would always be welcomed.

by HAMISH RAVENSCROFT