A women’s shed initiative in Talbingo, situated in the Snowy Mountains of New South Wales, has emerged as a vital source of community connection for local women facing feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Founded earlier this year, the Talbingo Women’s Shed Association aims to foster camaraderie among local women and is now seeking to grow its membership base.
On a chilly and fog-laden Wednesday morning, the usually quiet town of Talbingo buzzes with the energy of 13 women making their way to the Talbingo Trading Post, the only year-round shop in the area, which also serves as the temporary headquarters for the Women’s Shed Association.
Di O’Keefe, a long-time resident who moved to Talbingo with her husband four decades ago, shared her experiences of isolation following her husband’s passing. “There were weeks when I wouldn’t speak to anyone in person, just on the phone,” she recalled, noting her family’s concerns due to her lack of face-to-face interactions.
Originally constructed by the Snowy Mountains Authority in the 1960s to accommodate workers for the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme, Talbingo has transformed over the years, now known for recreational activities at the Talbingo Reservoir and its proximity to the Selwyn Snow Resort, attracting numerous visitors in both summer and winter.
The nearest town offering essential services, including a supermarket, is Tumut, which requires a winding one-hour round trip via the Snowy Mountains Highway.
Mrs. O’Keefe expressed her observations of a significant reduction in community services and events over time, stating, “There’s nothing left for women anymore.” She reminisced about the vibrant community hall that once hosted activities like badminton and concerts.
Mary Bargery, a friend of Mrs. O’Keefe, relocated to Talbingo in 1970 with her husband, a tradesman involved in the Snowy Scheme. After visiting her brother in the area, she fell in love with the community and made the decision to settle there. “We both left our jobs in Sydney and moved here,” she shared.
Mrs. Bargery noted that many elderly women in Talbingo, who originally moved with their husbands for work on the Snowy Scheme, are now widowed. “A lot of us are choosing to stay here,” she remarked.
Debbie Midson, the secretary of the Talbingo Women’s Shed, emphasized her desire for local women to avoid loneliness. This concern was the catalyst for establishing the Women’s Shed. “I would be heartbroken to see Talbingo become like Sydney or Melbourne, where an elderly person passes away at home, unnoticed for weeks,” she said. “Many women spend their days alone, and grocery shopping in Tumut is often the only outing during the week.”
Since its inception in April, over 40 individuals have joined the association. The group convenes for monthly meetings and organizes community events and workshops. Despite its short existence, the Women’s Shed has already made a significant impact on the lives of local residents. “The Women’s Shed is fostering unity among us and tackling the issue of isolation,” Mrs. Bargery stated. “It has been an incredibly positive experience.”
