Australian of the Year

In 2018, Sophie Wilksch imagined a community workshop like a men’s shed, but for everyone, where participants could shed their fears and build with curiosity. So far, Sophie has inspired thousands of participants and volunteers. 

On a 36m² verandah in Mullumbimby, Sophie created a place where people of all ages could learn building and carpentry in an environment grounded in inclusivity, wellbeing and hands-on discovery. By using reclaimed and recycled materials, Sophie provides an inventive education in sustainability. 

Shedding’s philosophy came into full force during the 2022 Northern Rivers floods, when thousands of damaged items poured into the small verandah workshop. Alongside practical repairs, Shedding provided crucial emotional support to traumatised residents, cementing the organisation’s role as an important community service. 

Sophie's efforts led Transport for NSW to offer Mullumbimby’s disused railway shed, enabling Shedding to meet the growing community need. Sophie now aims to bring Shedding’s workshops to regional communities nationwide.