Tamara Carr is the new manager at Tin Shed in St Albans. She spoke to Sam Porter about her new role and her connection to the community.
What’s your connection to Brimbank?
I’ve had a strong connection to Brimbank since childhood. Most of my family grew up here, and I went to high school in Sunshine. Even though I moved away for a few years, I always felt drawn back and eventually returned in 2007. In 2020, during the height of Covid, I started a charity supporting people in St Albans experiencing insecure housing. The Tin Shed quickly became a place where outreach services, volunteers, and community members could come together—and that’s where my connection to this organisation really began.
How are you feeling about being the new Tin Shed manager?
Stepping into the manager role is both exciting and deeply meaningful. We’re fortunate to have a wonderful team of dedicated volunteers who inspire me every day. Brimbank has shaped so much of who I am, and having the opportunity to give back in this way feels incredibly special.
What do you like about where you live?
I live in Broadmeadows, and I love how convenient it is. Everything is right at my fingertips – public transport, shopping, the freeway, restaurants, the aquatic centre, schools, and so much more. Living out in Broadmeadows feels much like Brimbank with just how accessible services are and community welcoming it is.
What would you change about where you live?
I think we all have things we’d change about where we live, but honestly, I’m grateful to have a safe roof over my head – especially with the housing challenges many people are facing right now. Being manager at Tin shed and seeing how the housing and cost of living has impacted our communities has made me feel so much more blessed to have what I have.
What’s your favourite local place to spend time?
Honestly, it’s the Tin Shed. The volunteer team is amazing, and it’s a joy to be surrounded by people who are so dedicated to serving the community. I get to spend time with community members who drop in for programs, community lunches, a friendly chat, food relief, or outreach services. It’s a place full of heart, and I feel lucky to be part of it.
What’s something people would be surprised to know about you?
People are often surprised to learn that I joined the Army Reserves at 19. I was based at the Duke Street barracks in Sunshine with 5/6 RVR A Company. My time in the ADF was one of the best experiences of my life—full of learning, discipline, and very fond memories. In the ADF I ranked up to Corporal and moved to Norforce in Darwin for 2 years. I believe this helped shape my leadership skills.
Any plans for the Tin Shed you’d like to share?
One of my priorities is to create more opportunities for people in our community to share their talents and get involved in ways that inspire them. Whether it’s through social media, peer support, mums and bubs groups, or creative projects like art exhibitions, film, or photography—there’s a place for everyone here.
I want the Tin Shed to be a space where we showcase local strengths, celebrate culture, build confidence, and empower each other to thrive. I’m looking forward to building partnerships, expanding programs, and creating more opportunities for our diverse community to connect, learn, grow, and celebrate our cultures together.
