Reporting in from what's happening with Masculinity in my home country of Australia, the other side of the world.

For those unaware of what the The Men's Shed Initiative is, it's a space that men can get together and shoot the breeze whilst working on a hobby. Be it restoring furniture, fixing a bicycle, lawn mowers, building bird traps etc.

It is not uncommon to see young men working with the older generation learning new skills and knowledge about life. It is essentially a men's club of old (which we all know no longer exists.)

I'm sure we all agree this is a fantastic initiative, especially in comparison to young men blowing out all their hard earned cash at booze and bars. Here they can learn skills, converse with other men about male issues, and learn about life from those who've walked that path.

But alas, I fear the growth of such an establishment will be hindered. Not a matter of IF, but WHEN. It is almost CRIMINAL to promote Masculinity in today's Feminist society.

The University of Sydney Union recently vetoed a club to not create a 'Men's Shed' because of its association with Masculinity.

Some quotes taken from the official statement:

'Several directors spoke out against the society’s ratification, highlighting the dangers of BroSoc’s ostensibly narrow focus on traditional masculinity.

"The society’s objectives were “clearly not about breaking down oppressive gender roles”.'

“There are a number of directors who believe that any group that serves to cater primarily to men inherently reinforces the patriarchy and oppresses queer people”.

Yet ironically, the University of Sydney Union promotes a 'Wom*ns Collective' and a "Women's Space" on campus.

I fear this of the first of many to again eradicate a Men's only space in society. Women can have their female only gyms, female only taxi services, but no way in hell can men promote a healthy space without women involved.

This is quite similar to the Male-Only Barbershop that was heaviily scrutinized last month in Canada.

"They want to say that they can promote a certain kind of style, but they want to discriminate against women."