The Whyalla Men's Shed
Feb 18, 2025 6:30 PM
Mr Gary Misan
The Whyalla Men's Shed
Born and bred in Adelaide, Gary is a hospital pharmacist by trade who also has a PhD in Clinical Pharmacology. Gary moved to Whyalla with his wife Debra in 2002 as Associate Professor and Head of the then SA Centre for Rural and Remote Health (SACCRH), which was a joint venture of the University of Adelaide and University of SA. Gary's research interests included quality use of medicines, chronic disease self-management, health and other program evaluation and later men’s sheds and male health. His interest interest in male health and Men's Sheds motivated Gary in 2012 to lead the establishment of the Whyalla Men’s Shed. The aim was to mitigate social isolation and improve the social and emotional wellbeing of Whyalla men. This was based on research demonstrating that providing opportunities for socialization, friendship, purpose as well as physical and mental activity contributes to the physical and psychological health, particulalry for men in retirement. Gary retired from the University at the end of 2016 but continues with the Whyalla Shed till this day. Gary was Shed President from its inception until October 2017, and also served periods as Treasurer, Secretary and Co-ordinator when others were absent. He is currently the Shed Co-ordinator/Secretary, Public officer , Webmaster and helps out with the more demanding woodwork projects. He also tinkers with the Shed network.
Gary is married to Deb and has 2 adult children, Ben who lives in Adelaide is a GP; Daniel (the younger is a skilled tradie (air-conditioning/refrigeration, electrician and fitter) who lives in Whyalla with his wife and family. Gary has 3 grandchildren (2 boys and a girl), and a well-equipped home workshop where he enjoys woodwork of all descriptions. He keeps fit by swimming, weekly gym sessions and walking regularly.
Gary is married to Deb and has 2 adult children, Ben who lives in Adelaide is a GP; Daniel (the younger is a skilled tradie (air-conditioning/refrigeration, electrician and fitter) who lives in Whyalla with his wife and family. Gary has 3 grandchildren (2 boys and a girl), and a well-equipped home workshop where he enjoys woodwork of all descriptions. He keeps fit by swimming, weekly gym sessions and walking regularly.