Season 1 – Episode 10

There’s no doubt we all need our own space from time to time, even more so at different times of our lives. A place to unwind, a place to relax and a place that takes us away from the daily grind.

When it comes to blokes, our Dad’s had their sheds, a refuge they retreated to after the dishes were done and kids. Where the sound of lathes, drills and grinders magically transformed blocks of wood into impressive pieces of furniture.

The modern Man Cave is quite capable of turning out bookcase or two, however it’s less about making, more about chilling.

It’s often preferable to create a Man Cave outside the main living areas of the house. Converting the garage is often a quick and easy solution. Four walls and a roller doors saves building a separate room. Although, if you don’t have a ready shed to deck out, then a purpose built space give you plenty of options.

The one thing a Man Cave doesn’t have to be, is coordinated. It’s a personal space, one where something comfortable to sit on is an excellent starting point. The discarded family or friend’s sofa, as long as it allows you to lay and lounge, fits the bill perfectly without costing a cent.

Head to Gumtree if you are looking for budget solution to Man Cave furnishing.

A few things any self-respecting Man Cave must have, apart from comfortable seating:

• TV – how else are you going to watch the footy and cricket?
• Internet connection – add Foxtel, Fetch, Netflix or any other streaming media.
• Fridge – a man is not a camel, so you’ll need a steady supply of cold beverages. Milk optional.
• Dart Board – whether you throw like Phil Taylor (look him up) or John Howard (ex PM) keep the darts handy and remember the scoreboard.
• Memorabilia – Where else would your Darwin Stubbie or 18th birthday yard-glass look its best?
• Signs & Posters – same goes for the Crows 97 & 98 or Power 04 Premiership posters. These masterpieces are wasted in the lounge.
• Electricity – unless you’re keen on spending time indoors with a dolphin torch or tilley lamp, a couple of well positioned powerpoints and lights are a must
• Lighting – forget mood lighting. The only ‘mood’ you’ll be in will depend on whether your team wins or loses. Enough light to find the remote control is often a good gauge. Although if you’re a bookworm or indeed have a pool table (see below) you’ll need some extra incandescence.

Optional Extras (in no particular order):

• Flooring – barring it being dirt, most surfaces will be fine
• Bar
• Bar Stools & Chairs
• Pool Table
• Kettle/Coffee Machine
• Table
• Pack of Playing Cards
• Heating & Cooling – leaving the fridge open doesn’t count, a fan and heater will do if you don’t want to stretch to reverse cycle
• Plumbed Kitchen – now we’re talking (with microwave)

Whether you have the latest mod cons or working on a budget, adding your own personal touches will help create the perfect place to pursue your interests.

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Australia's first agricultural college was established at Roseworthy, 50km north of Adelaide, in 1883, and joined forces with the University of Adelaide in 1991. Roseworthy is an internationally renowned centre for excellence in dryland agriculture and animal production. Located on a 1600 hectare property, the campus includes a working farm on which students gain practical experience and training.

Research and teaching is aided by the University of Adelaide's Veterinary Health Centres based on the campus which offer a complete range of veterinary care, diagnostic services and student teaching facilities supervised by experienced and compassionate veterinary professionals.

At the University of Adelaide’s School of Veterinary Science’s Roseworthy Campus, there’s a very special collection of animal skeletons and curiosities that is constantly being studied and added to.

To find out more about how you can view this wonderful array of anatomical skeletons, including a rhinoceros, contact the University of Adelaide’s School of Veterinary Science’s Roseworthy Campus.

Roseworthy Campus contact: