Northern Men’s Shed president Tom Rolls has watched Craigieburn evolve from a small country town to a bustling suburb.
What is your connection to Hume?
I live in Craigieburn and I am the president of the Northern Men’s Shed.
How long have you lived in Craigieburn and what brought you to the area?
I have lived in Craigieburn since December 1974, which is a long time. I moved here to be close to my work at Ford.
What do you like about living in Hume?
It is close enough to the city but far enough out to miss most of the hassles of living in inner Melbourne.
How has Craigieburn changed since 1974?
I think Craigieburn has grown too big and lost a lot of the country feel. It has gone from a small country town of a few thousand people, two schools, two kindergartens, a small shopping centre with approximately seven shops, and no police station, to being just part of the metropolitan Melbourne area.
How long have you been involved with the men’s shed?
I first became involved in a men’s shed in mid-2012. We started the Northern Men’s Shed in February 2013.
What do you like about being involved in the Craigieburn community?
As a member of the Craigieburn fire brigade since December 1974 I have made lots of friends. Many have moved to other parts of the state but I still see them. I have made many new friends in our shed, as well as in others we visit.
What is your favourite local place or places to spend time?
In the Northern Men’s Shed and riding my motorbike.
