ENTERPRISING: Redhead Mens Shed president Dave Perkins, committee member Cliff Broad committee member Doug McCloy and vice-president Paul Battle at the Lambton Colliery Buildings.
A PACK of men bearing tools has won the right to take over the Lambton Colliery ensemble of buildings at Redhead.
Lake Macquarie councillors voted in favour of granting Redhead Men's Shed a five-year lease in November after calling for expressions of interest on the vacant buildings in June.
The men's shed group won the lease over two commercial bids.
The Lambton Colliery buildings were handed over to the council in 2006, but have since been subjected to vandalism.
In 2010, the council adopted a masterplan for the site, winning two state government grants totalling $167,500 for restoration works.
The brickwork, roofing, windows and doors were repaired and new drainage and disability ramps were installed.
Redhead Men's Shed will be responsible for the upkeep of the buildings.
Redhead Men's Shed spokesman Dave Perkins said the decision was not just for people living in Redhead - it would also benefit the people in Dudley, Whitebridge, Charlestown, Kahibah and Jewells.
"We already have 61 financial members and we will welcome more."
For information email perkinsdr@bigpond.com or phone 0418 657 958.