Tooling up for a sustainable future

Published on 09 June 2025

The new tool library at Sustainable Macleod is open, offering everything from post hole diggers to angle grinders for home and hobby jobs.

The library at the group’s community garden in Somers Avenue, Macleod, was made possible with a Council community grant of $6117 for the purchase and fit out of a shipping container to house the tools. A Council environment grant of $2500 helped purchase tools.

Sustainable Macleod president Christine Reischel said the library had manual and battery-powered tools, plus safety gear including masks, goggles and hearing protection.

“All the tools are items people use occasionally or rarely. Sharing these among a group helps reduce consumerism, saves people money and builds a sense of community,” Christine said.

“We’re also dedicated to tackling climate change through practical activities and we only stock non-petrol equipment. Battery-operated tools are just as strong and capable as petrol-powered tools. They are also quieter and lighter, making them easier to use, particularly for older people and those with physical disabilities.”

Sustainable Macleod’s off-grid solar energy system will be used to charge the batteries for the tools.

The tool library is open to members of Sustainable Macleod. You don’t have to live in Macleod to join and membership of $30 a year gives you access to the tool library and community garden, as well as workshops, events and the amazing depth of knowledge and camaraderie of the membership group.