28/04/2026
Meet Max Finlayson, a 72-year-old dynamo and Secretary of the Victorian Men’s Shed Association, who embodies a spirit of adventure and dedication. With 25 years by Mariagrazia's side, Max has two sons making waves abroad, and a grandchild named Daisy brings boundless joy. His furry and feathered family includes two lively springer spaniel x English setter crosses, a discerning cat named Professor Frederick, three inquisitive alpacas, and four productive chooks. After a fulfilling career that took him from university campuses in Perth and Townsville to the world stage, Max joined the shed in 2020, bringing with him a wealth of experience as a water quality inspector, aquatic ecologist, and research professor. With a portfolio that includes working with non-governmental environmental groups across Europe and Eastern Africa, and as a research professor at Charles Sturt University, Max's journey is a testament to his passion for positive impact. When not saving the world, Max enjoys writing, exploring nature through bushwalking and camping, and playing sports. Highlights of his life include a memorable meeting with Prince Charles and witnessing history unfold during the attempted coup against Mikhail Gorbachev, fueling his commitment to making a difference.