Mature ladies with time on their hands who would like to meet other women in the area for a cuppa and a chat are being invited to get in touch with Elma Spaull.
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The retired nurse from Raymond Terrace is calling on ladies who fit the bill to join her for a morning tea and in doing so, establish a Hen's Shed.
A Hen's Shed is a similar concept to a Men's Shed but for women.
"It will be what we make it together," Mrs Spaull said of what the Hen's Shed will entail.
"There's a lot of stories hidden under the surface that women our age aren't telling. There's a lot of history among them. They're an untapped resource who often don't get a fair go.
"I'd like for ladies to come together and share their stories, discuss times gone by. Even if they just want to talk about what's on their mind. Or just come for some tea."
Mrs Spaull retired in 1981 after a 30 year career in nursing.
She has been living in Raymond Terrace since 1992.
Mrs Spaull said nursing gave her a sense of community, which she still misses.
It was while shopping in the Terrace one day last year that Mrs Spaull had the idea try and establish a group or event where mature ladies who were not interested in sport or recreation activities such as crafts would feel welcome.
"I feel like there's a need for something like this," Mrs Spaull said. "I became aware of these ladies who seemed like they were alone.
"You know of these ladies who go into their units, close the door and you hardly see them. These are the ladies we want to attend our Hen's Shed or whatever it is we decide to make it."
Mrs Spaull organised two morning teas at her home last year and one in January which attracted between three and five women.
"Bringing together strangers is no easy thing," Mrs Spaull said. "I keep asking myself if it's a crazy idea but, as they say, you're never too old to try something new.
"This is just something social. We're not poking into private lives, just offering them the opportunity to talk if they would like."
Anyone interested in joining the Hen's Shed can phone Mrs Spaull on (02) 4987 4850.
A date for the next Hen's Shed will be set after Mrs Spaull receives some expressions of interest in meeting.
The meetings will be held at Lakeside Tavern.
It is hoped there will be enough interest to hold a Hen's Shed one or twice a month.
"If you would like to join me, get together for a meeting of the minds, call," Mrs Spaull said.
Ellie-Marie Watts
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
