Nicknamed the First Bloke, Mr Mathieson is the partner of Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard, and the sobriquet typifies the Australian tendency to make gentle fun of people in high places.

However, the cause the First Bloke is here to support, is one of a serious, even deadly serious, nature and the shed movement is making headway in a social issue that has gone unattended for far too many years.

Men’s Sheds have become a retreat for men who are past their working years and who seek the company of like-minded chaps who enjoy a yarn and doing something with their hands.

But the more important role this plays is to get men thinking about their health - both mental and physical - as well as providing important support networks.

The Shed movement’s expo today will also have presentations on a range of topics including: gardening, funding/finance, occupational health and safety, medical, mentoring, handyman, shed experiences and starting and growing a shed.

So welcome to our visitors and congratulations on the support of a growing institution we appreciate not only the good work done within the shed but the good work done on our men.