Under clear skies and with the smell of barbecue in the air, about 150 guests gathered Saturday afternoon to mark a major milestone: the 10th anniversary of the Coquitlam Men’s Shed—one of the very first Sheds established in British Columbia. The celebratory BBQ event took place both inside the Shed and outdoors in the parking lot, where a collection of vintage cars (click for video) drew admiring visitors and added a classic touch to the festive atmosphere.
The event was a true reflection of the camaraderie, community spirit, and contribution that define the Men’s Shed movement. Guests mingled, shared stories, and celebrated a decade of impact. Long-time Shed supporter Coquitlam Mayor Richard Stewart attended the celebration, joined by Shed members, supporters, and leaders from across the province and country.
Robert Goluch, President of Men’s Sheds Canada, addressed the crowd and extended heartfelt thanks to President Cal Smith and everyone at the Coquitlam Shed for their warm hospitality and remarkable legacy.
“What you’ve built here is a space of belonging, where guys can show up, be themselves, and contribute to something meaningful,” said Goluch. “Your motto, ‘Shed the Blues’, says it all. This movement is about combating social isolation—something that often goes unspoken, but we know is real and growing. What you’re doing here changes lives.”
Other Special guests from the Men’s Sheds community included:
- Jim Millar, from the nearby Port Moody Men’s Shed and a dedicated member of the Men’s Sheds Canada national board.
- Jan Fennema, President of the Men’s Shed Association of BC, along with his wife Audrey, a committed contributor to the Men’s Sheds Canada Board. Also representing the provincial board were Varouj Gumuchian, Chris Staddon, and Curtis Quinn, a member of the Coquitlam Shed who played a key role in organizing the anniversary festivities.
- Barbara McMillan, Acting Executive Director of Men’s Sheds Canada and lead for Partnerships and Fund Development.
- Doug Mackie, who launched Canada’s very first Men’s Shed in Winnipeg in 2011, inspired by the movement in Australia.
Goluch also highlighted the Shed’s impressive history of contributing to the local community through special building projects, including:
- Raised Garden Beds at Sunrise Terrace, built in partnership with the Red Door Housing Society and Coquitlam Sunrise Rotary Club, empowering residents to grow their own produce.
- Birdhouse Kits for elementary students, promoting intergenerational learning and woodworking skills.
- A Giant Jenga Puzzle created to support mental health and recreational programming across the Tri-Cities.
- A smartly designed grocery chute to support food distribution for the “Don’t Go Hungry” food bank at Gordon Church in Burnaby.
“These projects aren’t just about building things—they’re about building relationships,” said Goluch. “You’ve created intergenerational connections, supported newcomers, and helped organizations deliver services they otherwise couldn’t. That’s what community looks like in action.”
Of course, no birthday party is complete without cake—and the delicious anniversary cake was a hit with attendees, adding the perfect sweet touch to an already memorable day.
Congratulations to the Coquitlam Men’s Shed on ten years of building, connecting, and making a difference. Your leadership and generosity set the bar for what a Men’s Shed can be—and your community is all the stronger for it.
