At the heart of the Noosa Women’s Shed is a simple but powerful purpose: to teach women how to use tools safely and correctly, while building confidence, independence and community connection along the way.
Every member undertakes a structured tool accreditation process, delivered in two stages. From learning the correct way to use a hammer through to becoming confident with a range of power tools, the program is designed to remove fear, replace it with knowledge, and create a strong sense of personal achievement. For many women, these practical skills represent far more than home maintenance – they are a pathway to self-belief and empowerment.
The Noosa Women’s Shed began as the vision of a determined mother-daughter duo, Anne and Fiona McComb. Alongside founding committee members Heather Lambert, Almut Thorn and Fiona McComb, and founding president Anne McComb, the group worked tirelessly to bring the idea to life. Their dream became a reality in 2017 with the official establishment of the Shed.
After operating from several temporary locations, the organisation now has a permanent home in a purpose-built workshop at Rotary Way, off Wallum Lane, Noosa Heads. The land, owned by Unity Water, is provided under a 10-year licence agreement, giving the Shed a secure base for the future.
The Noosa Men’s Shed has played a vital role in the journey, offering early guidance and support as tool accreditation sessions and workshops were developed. Today, these sessions are proudly run by women, for women, with deep gratitude remaining for the mentorship that helped shape the organisation.
The Noosa Women’s Shed provides a safe, inclusive, women-focused space for learning, skill development and connection. Guided by values of respect, participation, responsiveness and wellbeing, it continues to be a vital part of the Noosa community – empowering women, one tool at a time.
