Henty Men's Shed members received a phone call from organisers during COVID-19 lock-downs, to make sure they were doing OK.
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Thanks to an innovative project, they'll be able to stay connected virtually when the pandemic is long over.
Greater Hume Council has used $22,860 in NSW government funding for reducing social isolation for seniors to purchase 30 iPads.
John Ebsworth said his fellow Men's Shed members had gone through a couple trial runs, linking up with people in their homes and at the retirement village.
"The local library staff approached us about three weeks ago, and indicated the members we have that are currently in hospital or at our retirement village may be able to join our meetings using iPads," he said.
"We could potentially bring in members that we may only see a couple times a year.
"It will open up avenues for us to keep in contact and support each other ... it will be something that can be ongoing well past the virus restrictions.
"We're not technologically challenged - many of us do have iPads and iPhones, and we should be able to utilise the technology to get out our information and build interest."
The increased connections have resulted in nine new projects for the men's shed, which had its first meeting in 2010 and currently has 39 members.
Sue Weston, care manager at the UPA Myoora Homestead Hostel, said her team had been looking for new ways for their 20 residents to connect.
"The intention is to create a network with them," she said.
"The Henty MPS is also involved, and we're talking about bringing in some entertainment that we could then share virtually with the health service as well."
Ms Weston said the iPads from Greater Hume Council added to their technologies.
"We've been able to link up with some grandchildren overseas," she said.
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"We use a Zoom system as well, and have a couple laptops and smart TVs.
"I know one of the residents came to me and said, 'I need the instructions to tell my son what to download' ... and she's 98."
As well as the residential facilities attached to the Henty, Culcairn and Holbrook hospitals, the Holbrook Village Hostel, Jindera Hostel, and members of the community are using the iPads.
Greater Hume mayor Heather Wilton welcomed the funding.
"It is exciting to have the iPads available for our seniors; it will provide another avenue to improve social interactions for our seniors and residents in care and will open up many new opportunities," she said.
