Tucked away at Holy Family Parish in Emerton, The Shed is more than a space — it’s a community. Created as a safe place for First Nations people to connect, share stories, and access support, The Shed offers warmth, welcome, and practical help for those who need it most.
The Shed at Emerton.
Every Wednesday, the smell of steak on the BBQ and veggies simmering over the campfire fills the air, as voices and laughter echo across the yard. Some gather around the fire; others sit quietly, enjoying a cuppa and a chat. It’s a moment of peace — and possibility.
Supporting men’s mental health at The Shed.
“It’s not just about the food,” says Uncle Donald Mulholland, who helps lead the space.
“It’s about creating an environment where people feel safe enough to talk. Once that trust is there, we connect them with the right support — mental health, housing, medical care, or just someone to listen.”
Founded over 20 years ago by Fr Paul Hanna, Professor John MacDonald, and local Aboriginal leaders, The Shed began as a men’s mental health initiative.
Hand-crafted didgeridoos.
While it still prioritises suicide prevention among Aboriginal men, it’s now open to the broader community — anyone seeking support, healing, or connection.
The Shed sign.
Catholic Care Emerton
Catholic Care Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains is proud to walk alongside The Shed in serving the Emerton community. We share a commitment to cultural safety, inclusion, and real, long-term change.
Catholic Care Community Centre, 11 Emert Pde, Emerton NSW.
Catholic Care – the Diocese of Parramatta’s social welfare agency – is one of several community-focused organisations based in the Holy Family Parish precinct, as well as Holy Family Primary School, Jesuit Refugee Services, and Baabayn Aboriginal Corporation. We play a key role in supporting the local First Nations community through a range of culturally sensitive programs and a welcoming drop-in centre.
Art activities in Emerton.
“On Wednesday’s we have a Yarning Aunties Group, and sometimes they do art,” says James Abela, Catholic Care’s Community Engagement and Development Coordinator.
“The OzHarvest hampers distributed each Thursday at Emerton remain one of our largest and longest-running initiatives.
“A lot of the community from The Shed come down to Catholic Care to collect food hampers.
“Our services also include counselling, family support, and healing initiatives that complement the safe and welcoming environment nurtured at The Shed,” he says.
Find out more about Catholic Care in Emerton, its activities, and connected services like The Shed.
