Alan Buchanan joined BECS shortly after it started in 2006 and in the early days he used his cooking skills to begin the weekly lunches. All through his time at BECS Alan was involved with the BBQ’s. He and Bill Hammond ran a BBQ for an Adelaide Grand Prix Car rally which was held at Lake Wendouree with very little equipment. This massive effort raised over $2500, which is probably still a record!
The catering skills were used again to organise breakfast for the AMSA National Shed Conference in Ballarat, as well as numerous VMSA meetings held at the shed. Alan also found the time to attend many VMSA quarterly meetings in both Melbourne and regional areas.
Alan was very concerned with the welfare of men at the shed. He would often make welfare checks on members particularly during the COVID period and he organised numerous meals out with partners. More recently Alan joined in a few fishing trips with fellow shed members and through this initiative a BECS Fishing Group has formed. At home Alan was a long time animal lover devoting hours each day to the care of his dogs, cats and chooks and this showed when ever a member or visitor brought their fury friend in for a visit.
Alan contributed to the shed in may ways including serving on the committee right up to end of 2025 and only his short passing illness kept him from continuing into 2026. He liked to participate in the Ballarat Begonia floats entered by BECS and was leading the organisation of this years entry. Following the passing of Ken Pryor, Alan stepped up to lead the toy making program and support the efforts of some of the older men who also enjoyed participating in same activity. Alan like many others dreamed of winning the ‘big one’ and so he started and ran the weekly Tattslotto group.
In 2024 Alan received a well deserved Life Membership of BECS. He will be missed and he will be remembered for his good humour and tireless effort in support of Ballarat East Community Mens Shed.
RIP Dear Friend
Written by Doug Jenkins
BECS will be closed for the period 16th December to 6th January. Wishing everyone a safe and happy christmas, see you all in 2026.
We now have our new reverse cycle air-conditioners installed and working beautifully thanks to a grant from the Ballarat City Council. This will be beneficial to members for the colder days and hot days whilst assisting with reducing our environmental impact.
