Every week a group of local blokes catch up for a yarn, a laugh, and to seek advice.
They do it as part of a program run by the Kingston East Neighbourhood Centre, with the goal of reducing isolation within men in Logan.
Program coordinator Hayden Esparon said isolation was one of the main issues facing men in the community.
“When they leave the workforce, most of their life that they have clung onto has suddenly ended,” he said.
“They are finding themselves without that routine and environment they are used to, so they become isolated quite quickly.
“Isolation tends to lead to depression and withdrawing – isolation is a big issue in Logan.”
He said while women tend to maintain their network of friends as they age, men don’t.
The weekly men’s group, run every Friday from 9.30am-12pm, also provides a space for blokes of all ages to discuss their highs, lows and everything in-between.
“You have dads struggling to make ends meet, struggling to provide for their family, struggling to work and also be present with their family – general societal pressure,” Mr Esparon said.
“Be aware that it is ok to speak about issues, and that you are not alone in that struggle – other guys out there are doing it tough as well.
“Sometimes providing a bit of comfort to another guy means more than you think it will – a bit of encourage goes a long way.”
Mr Esparon takes the fellas out and about every now and then to keep them engaged and having fun.
This Thursday the group is going fishing and Mr Esparon also runs a father’s playgroup on Saturdays.
“It encourages parents and kids to engage in activities and for parents to chat with each other, but just for dads,” he said.
“Some men feel they can’t fit in or connect with mums.
“So, the dads get to come in and have a yarn with each other, some chat about fathering issues, and some veteran dads with three kids pass on some of their wisdom to a first-time dad.
Unlike other playgroups which are organised and run by a facilitator, participants in the dad’s playgroup get to help run the show.
“They get quite involved in the process,” Mr Esparon said.
“For example, we had a guy last weekend come in and bring paper aeroplane kits because his son thought it would be cool.
“We have had guys bring food in from their cultures and stuff they thought others would love, and sprinklers because they thought it would be hot that day.
“It really enriches the group because there is a sense of contributing to the group and not just being participants.”
Mr Esparon’s next feat to champion men’s health is the Great Mates Men’s Expo on 19 November.
“This event will be about celebrating International Men’s Day and raising awareness for men and the issues they face, whether they be fiscal, mental, social, psychological,” he said.
“There will be a free barbeque sausage sizzle and food, stalls from men’s organisations, a barber doing free cuts and shaves, some activities and guest speakers.
“It’s just a day for men and by men.”
The expo will run from 9am-1pm at KENG Tudor Park.
