Men's Health Australia - Services

Mens Shred - men's mental health through surfing

2020-05-15T03:11:51Z

The Idea and Story

Hello, my name is Rory and I’m a fairly regular 36-year-old Australian male.

I’m writing this now, of all the times available, because I believe we are unfortunately headed for a second significant crisis. I believe that the isolation from COVID-19 will only exacerbate an already all too common problem. Instances of mental health issues and drug and alcohol abuse are almost certainly set to increase as a direct result of the extraordinary circumstances we currently enduring; and will likely continue to endure for an undetermined amount of time. This idea has been with me for years, yet the current circumstances have compelled me to get on the front foot.

I’m now over 2 years sober after living with mental health, and drug and alcohol abuse issues for many years. In that time I have managed to start my own business, meet a very special partner, and fully regain my mental, emotional, physical and spiritual health.

One of the more consistent external contributors to my recovery has been the ocean. Through the activity of surfing, I have regained a new appreciation for the small things in life. An early rise, sunsets, water, friendships; and connection to the environment, people and most importantly myself, have been essential to my recovery and relapse prevention.

I believe that surfing, connection to the ocean, and shared interest or love of something, can have markedly beneficial outcomes for those experiencing similar struggles to those I have endured.

I plan to begin a not-for-profit organisation, structured to engage groups of men suffering from mental health ailments and drug and alcohol abuse issues, to participate in surfing as a therapeutic activity that contributes positively to their recovery. This organisation will be called Mens Shred.

I’m hoping to engage volunteers and board riders clubs all across Australia to help me establish “chapters” of the Mens Shred program. The volunteers themselves would be keen surfers with charitable hearts. It would be my ideal view that the volunteers were of specific professional and medical backgrounds, as well as anyone else who wants to help.

From these chapters of Mens Shred across the country, I would like to achieve opportunities for the men in the way of vocational/education outcomes, friendships and social connections, medical or psychological help, and referrals for ongoing treatment and support.

There are many key figures in the industry I would like to initially approach. I am seeking opportunities to raise revenue and explore sponsorship opportunities to achieve my goals concerning Mens Shred. Ultimately I would also like to secure marketing and endorsements from professionals and athletes connected to surfing.

The money raised would allow me to begin to engage with members of government, organisations and businesses across Australia; to pitch my ideas, my hopes, and my dreams for Mens Shred. Finances would initially go toward a website build and development of an app for mobile devices, to help organisation’s and potential participants in Mens Shred be informed and connected to the core messages of Mens Shred Australia. Social media management, as well as engaging solicitors and accountants to help me manage the organisation safely and ethically, would also be a primary objective.

Finally, I would like to establish an advisory board to steer me through challenges, and harness my raw enthusiasm for the project into positive outcomes at an individual and community level.

Thank you for taking the time to read through my story and idea.

Love, RorZ.

www.mensshred.org

Powerhouse Programs - Because Growing Up is Optional

2013-11-17T06:46:14Z

Powerhouse Programs is the creation of Stephen Halsall and Andy Roy. Both Stephen and Andy have been heavily involved in working with men and boys through well-respected national community development organisations. Their lives and relationships have become richer for these endeavours and they take great joy in sharing this with others.

In doing this work in the community it became very clear to them that there was significantly more they could to do to bring this powerful work into the lives of a larger proportion of our society.

Stephen and Andy met in 2003 where as chance would have it, they both attended their first men only weekend in the Gold Coast Hinterland. From that fateful encounter they have become close friends and work colleagues through facilitating programs like Common Ground (a 9-week life skills course for men program), Pathways to Manhood (a week-long contemporary Rite-of-Passage for men and boys), on various organising committees for Men’s Gatherings and executive committees. In 2009 they jointly developed a Men’s Rite of Passage program which was gifted to Men’s Wellbeing Association. (www.menswellbeing.org)

Building Bridges

A six week course for fathers and sons that runs one evening per week. Typically there are 8-12 pairs in each program.

Know more…

Journey to Manhood

We have been heavily involved in organising and delivering Rites of Passage camps around Australia for over 10 years with the Pathways Foundation.

Know more…

Raising Teenage Boys – Parents Evening

This is 2 hours jam-packed with practical and up-to-date info for parents.

Know more…

Real Power

Designed for year 7 Primary School boys to celebrate the ending of a significant stage in their lives and the beginning of their journey into year 8 and young adulthood.

Know more…

Powerhouse Day

A six hour day-long program for teenagers. It is mostly run with existing year levels at schools and can be adapted to suit student age and gender.

Know more…

The 45 + Program - a new program to help re-employ mature-aged men

2013-10-10T09:14:02Z

A unique new program designed and delivered by mature-aged men to help re-employ mature-aged men is now available. A Pilot for the Program has been conducted this year in both metropolitan and regional areas of Victoria. The 45 + Program Pilot was part - funded by DEEWR with an independent Evaluation fully funded by Cbus, the Building Constructing Industry Super Fund. The Evaluation is a strong validation of the merits of the program and recommends national replication. Most importantly the program has received very strong feedback from the participants themselves.

The program has a deliberate ‘men-friendly’ approach and has strong endorsement from the business community and key figures in men’s issues. The program was originally designed to address the barriers to re-employment for mature-aged people which have been fully acknowledged by the Australian Federal Government and the deliberate ‘men-friendly’ approach is essentially the same as the federal government’s ‘Peer-Based Environment’ for training mature-aged people.

The men-friendly approach is not just tokenistic; men communicate and learn differently, they have different physiology / neurology, different socialization and they express their emotions differently; yet much of current training delivery simply does not take these factors into account and training is very generally non-gender specific. The appropriate approach to working with men is fundamental to developing genuine rapport and engaging the men fully and effectively. The program designer, Mr. Anthony Smith, believes that the lessons of the 45 + Program will impact on the training industry generally.

The 45 + program also raises questions about the way redundancy is managed in Australia. Workers are given very little support other than occasionally a superficial one hour one-on-one with a ‘Career Guidance Counsellor’ and then the workers are left to their own devices. Mr Smith says many of the current practices are out-dated, such as the emphasis on Resume to the exclusion of other self-marketing strategies. Mr Smith believes that the fundamental issue is providing the right context for men to begin to work through the significant challenges they face in their redundancy including identifying sometimes entirely new career and life pathways. A one hour session does very little for these men other than re-enforcing the commonly held cynicism about our community and business support systems.

The program is a practical support for the men - but the quality of the processes and outcomes brings hope and confidence to the men and this has been borne out strongly in the evaluation. The Program designer has a strong history in working in men’s issues including research in suicide prevention for men. ‘We know that many unemployed men are feeling considerable distress;’ said Mr. Smith. ‘We need to be mindful of this. We take what is called a ‘strengths – based’ approach to working with men: That the men who do this program deserve to be respected for their personal qualities and achievements and for their contributions to their families and the social and economic life of our community and our nation. We believe that this attitude is vital to ensuring genuine engagement and ‘buy-in’ by mature-aged men’.

Anthony suggests people contact their local Member of Parliament or Centrelink to ensure the program is available in your area.

Contact details: 45PLUSMEN.com.au

Contact Anthony Smith or John Franklin.

‘The program was very intense with a lot to get through but it was great. I sincerely from the bottom of my heart would like to see this program continue. What they are doing is crucial for blokes like me...’ [Participant - 45 + Program]

‘The survey results show that the participants are highly motivated in looking for employment and being better prepared and more confident to take advantage of employment prospects as a result of attending the program...’ [from Evaluation Report]

MensWatch - Male Peer Support Training Program

2013-05-14T12:18:46Z

Enables men to support other men in their workplace, organisation or community.

Trains men with knowledge and skills to support other men experiencing challenges with personal, relationship or mental health issues.

Equips men to take action to prevent male suicide and self-harm.

Builds capacity in workplaces, organisations and communities for male mental health and wellbeing.

Ideal for Workplaces, Community groups, Organisations, Churches & Church associated NGOs.

Over two days (or equivalent) we teach MensWatch participants about:

Principles of skilled helping

Taking care of themselves as helpers

Common problems that men experience

Mental health

Helping men in a crisis

Self-help strategies for psychological wellbeing

Surviving relationship breakdown

Accessing the right kind of professional support

For more information go to www.youcanhelp.com.au

Men in search of their spirit

2012-11-14T00:17:26Z

Written by Chiara Muzzin

Bhutan is known in some circles to be a place of happiness and mystery. To others, Bhutan is unknown. Located between Tibet and India, the country thrives with culture and awe-inspiring scenery. The people’s authentic smiles are welcoming and the land is rich with incredible energy. One man’s journey throughout this magnificent kingdom will create endless possibilities and its rare beauty will inspire you to search for your spirit.

Tim Bidstrup joined wellbeing tourism operator Journeys of the Spirit to discover a treasured and extraordinary part of this world. It was the very personal and inspiring experiences Journeys of the Spirit creates that captured Tim’s attention. He had heard whispers about Bhutan for a long time and throughout his other travel experiences he had heard many people speaking of this mysterious land. He believed it was a place few people had visited.

“My partner introduced me to Journeys of the Spirit. A retreat to Bhutan was on offer and reading about the spiritual aspects of the trip I thought it would be different than just an ordinary holiday. I didn’t think twice about going to Bhutan as I just felt it was going to be a really good fit.”

Traveling with Journeys of the Spirit, where intent and exploring the essence of sacred cultures is their style connected Tim to the spiritual aspects of his personal journey.

“At that point in my life I was learning about Buddhism. I was starting to gain knowledge about it and it was something that really clicked with me. The thought of going to a Buddhist nation and to see Buddhism in practice for me was a really strong draw card.”

Before going to Bhutan, Tim travelled throughout much of India’s poorest regions. Although the people he saw and spoke to barely have the necessities to live, he believes they are some of the happiest people he has ever seen in his life.

“Seeing it all teaches you a different way of looking at the world. There is so much suffering in this world and to me the suffering isn’t only to do with your surroundings it is something upstairs that leads to that suffering. For me, Buddhism was a way of recognising this. Finding a bit of freedom and a way of being virtuous and good to others…to start to be kind to you and be kind to others is the life we should aspire to lead.”

These touching and cherished moments that Tim experienced in Bhutan were not only fostered by the local people he met, he was heartened by the honoring, nurturing and support given by others within the group in which he travelled with.

“The opportunity to reflect, to weave through this spiritual heartland and be given the space in which you can just be yourself is the beauty of what Journeys of the Spirit creates.

“I would say to people if they feel a nagging in their belly that there is something more or that they’re missing something, that they need to open up themselves to the possibility that they can find what they’re after. They need to be open to that and it’s very hard to fill that hole in your belly sitting on the couch. If you have the opportunity to go to some of these magical places, which have their own energy, whether you believe in energy or not, then go for it.”

Returning from Bhutan, Tim reflected on the moments of his journey, which revealed his true self.

“I rediscovered how much I enjoyed making people laugh, how I still withhold the inquisitive spirit of a child, how I can be carefree, fun and not curve myself for the judgment of other people. But most of all, I learnt that I have a strong ability of being a natural leader.”

A few months after this journey, Tim began working with the ManKind Project. He had a huge desire to share his experiences and what he rediscovered of himself. He was also aware there are many things he still wanted to learn about what it meant to be a man of his generation.

“The greatest thing of what the ManKind Project does, is it teaches you what it means to be a man. It isn’t all about hugging, crying and being soft in that way because there are reasons why men are men and why they differ from women. There are also things such as integrity, authenticity and accountability. They are part of the big reasons why men feel unhappy because they don’t feel like they’re living in integrity. It is really interesting to see how men react when they are held accountable to grow and blossom and suddenly develop confidence in themselves. So it’s really powerful in that way too.”

In Tim’s ongoing work with the ManKind Project the struggles that men experience on a day-to-day basis come out over and over again. For men of his generation, it hasn’t improved. As Tim describes, there was no leadership, there was no teaching of what it means to be a man, and there was no understanding of what a man is.

“My role model was very emotionally confined and restricted and you are taught that from a very young age - don’t cry. That’s just what we are taught. The mystery that I am trying to work out is how to get over that and it’s not an easy thing to do in a way that is acceptable to men because it is very uncomfortable.

Imagine if you’ve never done anything or if you haven’t done something for your whole life and suddenly be asked to open up, to change who you are and what you’ve always been taught to believe and what you are meant to be to get by. It doesn’t stop when you leave childhood. You get through your work career and it’s the way men are portrayed in every movie that you see. So it’s very pervasive. It goes throughout a whole society.”

Tim is learning from both the ManKind project and what he discovered in Bhutan and is implementing this within his daily life and his work. As Tim talks about the most rewarding part of working for the men’s movement, you can feel a strong sense of passion for what he does.

“The looks on the men’s faces are the most rewarding part of working for the Man Kind Project. When they go through one of the weekends, they literally come out on the other side as different people carrying about three less tonnes on their shoulders. They realise they can be part of something bigger and that they’re not alone. They can be part of a community because a lot of men do feel isolated. It is really powerful to see. You know that they are going to take that on throughout their lives and pass it on to their kids, to their own sons from a young age and it creates that stop in the cycle. That’s the thing that I love the most.”

Tim has a clear ambition to create more opportunities for men, fathers and sons to explore and discover their true adventurous spirit. He is currently creating some exciting experiences in partnership with Journeys of the Spirit.

In May 2013, Tim will be leading his first group back to Bhutan. His inspiring and passionate temperament is in complete alignment with what Journeys is about.

“The thought of taking other people there really lights me up, it really does. The thought of going back there myself for a start just blows me away. Although I’ve always known since the day I have stepped there that I would be back. I can’t wait!”

Websites:

www.journeysofthespirit.com.au

www.mkpau.org

The Baby Shed: a hands on workshop for new dads (Randwick, Sydney)

2012-10-09T21:10:41Z

Venue: JNC Randwick, 2 Albert Street behind 155 Avoca Street
Dates: Saturday 13th, 20th & 27th October 2012 9am – 11am
SENC Family Support Project at South East Neighbourhood Centre in partnership with Karitane and Junction Neighbourhood Centre is pleased to offer The Baby Shed, a FREE hands-on workshop for new fathers originally developed by the South East Sydney Illawarra Health Father Links Project.
Who is it for? The Baby Shed is a three-week group workshop for fathers with children ideally aged 6 months or under.
What is it about? The workshop will cover the practicalities of feeding, settling, sleeping, infant communication, baby massage, infant play and gaining basic understanding of infant development, as well as exploring what it means to be a father. The workshop will be facilitated by a male group leader and a Child and Family Health Nurse.
How do I join? Contact John Gilbert at SENC: 02 8338 8506

The Regional Men’s Health Initiative (WA)

2012-08-07T03:02:35Z

The Regional Men’s Health Initiative is a Royalties for Regions funded project aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of men in rural Western Australia.

It was first developed in 2002, by the Central Wheatbelt Divison of General Practice that wanted to address the risk of suicide in regional men. From this Wheatbelt Men’s Health (Inc.) evolved.

In 2010 the Minister for Regional Development and Lands identified us as an outstanding organisation in the field of men’s health, and through Royalties for Regions a 3 year funding agreement was entered into on the condition that the program expand its territory to the whole of rural and regional WA. And so was born the banner of The Regional Men’s Health Initiative delivered by Wheatbelt Men’s Health (Inc.).

The community educators are more commonly based in their vehicles and are regularly seen driving their highly identifiable utes to and from regional events. There is, however, an office building located on the site of Department of Agriculture and Food WA in Northam which keeps track of their whereabouts.

Gamarada - Men's Self Healing Program

2012-08-07T02:51:23Z

What is Gamarada?

Gamarada, meaning ‘comrades or friends’ in the Gadigal language of the Eroa Nation is the name that has been given to our program by Uncle Shane Phillips (Tribal Warrior Association). The Gamarada men’s group emerged out of recognition of unmet needs and lost potential among men in Redfern. It is an organic, community developed and driven program which is providing a safe way for Indigenous men to come together to heal themselves and aid in the healing of others.

“Healing is a spiritual process that includes therapeutic change and cultural renewal.”

(2008 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner’s Social Justice Report).

Traditional Indigenous healing methods form the core of the program with some Eastern and Western influences. Throughout the program there is also an emphasis on practical techniques including stress and anger management and the promotion of life skills.

“Gamarada is a grass roots program driven by goodwill. The principles of the program are age old. Its about respect for self, continuing our culture and taking responsibility for our actions”

- Ken Zulumovski, Gamarada Leader

Gamarada is owned by those who attend the program. It is an opportunity for participants to join together as brothers, to create a safe space for self-growth and healing, and to support others. The program aims to build greater respect for Aboriginality, equip participants with practical skills, and to empower them within their wider community. Achieving these aims is supported through the building of inner strength, discipline, willpower and self-control.

Gamarada recognizes a necessity to heal those who will become leaders so that their full potential to achieve their own life goals and to help others is realised. By empowering individuals we hope they will use their knowledge to teach others. David Leha is the first graduate of the program who has done this. He has been approved by Corrective Services to run sessions within the department.

To see Gamarada in action please watch short clip below :

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ctCYng2gz4I

or check out our YOUTUBE page for more videos.

http://www.youtube.com/user/gamarada07?feature=watch

Current Programs

- Gamarada Men’s 10 week program
- Two day Healing and Life Skills Workshop
- Anger Management and Self Healing Session
- Biyanga Naminma

For more detail on the programs listed above please head to our Programs Page (LINK)

Biyang Naminma is currently running at from 5:30-8:00pm on Monday Nights until the 19^th December at the Redfern Community Centre (corner of Hugo and Caroline Streets).

Please email Ken Zulumovski for further information regarding the programs listed above.

Male Health Victoria E-Newsletter – July 2012

2012-07-20T06:32:00Z

President's Update

It's all happening!

Thanks for taking the time to read our very first e-newsletter! MHV exists to serve its members who are serving men, boys and ultimately the whole community. These newsletters will help you keep abreast of developments that affect you and them. Love to get your feedback so we can serve you better, even if you aren't a member yet!

In this edition, our big news is that MHV has a Patron! None other than former Governor of Victoria and founder of Andrology Australia, Professor David de Kretser. Also on board is Mensline founder Terry Melvin. You get to see who else has signed up with MHV, and take a look at the exciting Strategic Plan we have recently launched: Nothing will give you a better sense of who we are and what we are seeking to achieve.

Even without any paid staff yet we are going to give you two major opportunities this year for professional development, networking and personal enrichment. Our inaugural MHV State Gathering is scheduled for Nov 19-20 - so please mark it in your diary and check out the article. Please let us know what you want to see happen there. We also have NZ author Celia Lashlie touring Victoria to talk about adolescent boys.

There's a host of other great stuff that others are doing, and more on the website - particularly in the Events Calendar. Let us know what you know and we'll get it up there for you. Let's dispel this myth once and forever that 'there's nothing out there for us men'.

It's been almost a year today since MHV was formed and we have come such a long way! I want to thank our fantastic Committee of Management for all the hard work they do, all over and above their normal activities. Thanks to Brian Mier, our 'working dog' and amazing secretary, plus our resident computer hacker, Andrew Hacker, for making this fabulous newsletter possible!

Enjoy!

ROB KOCH

Circle of Security for Dads

2012-06-03T02:51:05Z

A Relationship Based Parenting Program

A 6 week parenting program with a focus on your relationship with your child and how to strengthen it.

Starting on Tues. 29th May 2012 1.30pm – 3.30pm and Wed 6th June, 6.00pm - 8.00pm

Remember…

“All my child needs is for me to be good enough” This means there is room to make mistakes in parenting.

“It is never too late” As I am learning new ways of parenting, good things will happen for both me and my child.

Why should I do it?

After 50 years of research we know that the more secure children are, the more they are able to;

Enjoy more happiness with their parents
Feel less anger at their parents
Solve problems on their own
Know that most problems will have an answer
Have better relationships with siblings
Have lasting friendships
Have higher self-esteem
Trust the people they love
Know how to be kind to those around them

What is Circle of Security Parenting©?

A group where the focus is on increasing your understanding of your child’s needs and emotions, developing skills that will enhance your relationship with your child and increase their confidence and self esteem as well as helping you to feel more successful in your parenting.

When: Tuesday’s beginning 29th May 2012 – 3rd July 2012 (6 weeks)
Time: 1.30pm – 3.30pm

Also: Wednesday's beginning 6th June 2012 – 11th July 2012 (6 weeks)
Time: 6.00pm – 8.00pm

Where: The Benevolent Society – Level 3, 55 Mentmore Ave,

Rosebery. *Childcare available*

Contact: Jason on 8314 9494 or 0419 461 422

Men's Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service (NSW)

2012-05-29T12:56:00Z

A Men's Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service has commenced meetings in Sydney to discuss practical ways of dealing with AVO and ADVO proceedings.

The service was started by a well known, high profile Barrister Mr Mario Licha, who is an experienced criminal law barrister. The service is for AVO advice for men only. It was an idea of Barrister Mario's that has morphed into reality to cater for a growing demand of additional information on what to do when the Police first contact men and remove them from their homes through application of interim ADVO and intervention orders.

This is something we have been wanting to put together for some time. It will enable men who are confronted for the first time with these sorts of orders to get a much better understanding of what they can do.

Wayne Butler from the Shared Parenting Council said

This is a good starting point for men who are suddenly confronted with the reality they are not going back home any time soon. It allows men to ask the proper legal questions and get a better understanding of how things can unfold.

Our own efforts in this area are focussed currently around a new system to implement safe interim contact orders as part of the ADVO and Intervention orders system so that when parents separate they know they will be able to get continued contact. Our research suggests that early intervention with some certainty of contact with their children, will most significantly take angst and anger out of separations, particularly at those early stages when allegations are made, AVO's are flowing like water and parties are postulating for a better position before they get to mediation or the court system.

Registration is essential for these meetings. It is free to gain entry. Gold coin donations welcome. Register by sending an email to Mario at: Barrister Mario or visit his website guiltynotguilty.com.au.

The next meeting at Fairfield

Date:             30 May 2012.
Time:             7pm to 9pm.

Address: CRN Sackville and Delamere Street - Fairfield (opp the Buddhist Temple)
Phone:    9723 4581
TOPIC: The new practice note for AVOs in the local court. - Q & A on individual cases.

Prostate Cancer Specialist Nursing Service

2012-05-15T22:41:43Z

Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia Prostate Cancer Specialist Nursing Service

The Prostate Cancer Specialist Nursing Service is a new national program to help those affected by prostate cancer The service will be delivered by a team of expert prostate cancer nurses in all states and territories across Australia.

They will help those affected by prostate cancer by:

Providing a point of contact and support for patients and carers
Assisting patients to access services in their community both during and after treatment
Providing reliable information about diagnosis and treatment plans
Co-ordinating care wherever a patient is in their cancer journey.

Meet Lauren Wood, the new PCFA Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurse at Royal Adelaide Hospital

"Any cancer diagnosis causes huge levels of anxiety and certainly men with prostate cancer can experience an enorvnous lack of control over themselves and their bodies. They are faced with a great deal of uncertainty and, in some cases, sadness and depression.

An important difference with prostate cancer is the degree of choice. Men have varied treatment alternatives with different results and side-effects that can be very personal and distressing, from incontinence to erectile dysfunction.

So they need to be made aware of the full picture right from the start. They need to be communicated with directly, as do their significant others. A Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurse has expert knowledge in the treatment of the cancer and management of side-effects, to be able to coordinate and streamline care and provide effective support. In my case, I have a background in oncology and urology nursing.

Building trust and a rapport where you are in a position to reassure and empower men and their families is also very important.

700 prostate cancer patients come through this hospital a year. I will be extremely busy trying to see everyone! But I hope to be there at or just after diagnosis and in the treatment planning phase. Also by email and in business hours over the phone to discuss how men are feeling and support their decision-making.

I'm a point of reference through the entire cycle of a man's cancer journey. If there are any questions, I can refer them on to other specialists, both medical and in the community, for management of side effects plus any other issues they might have.

My ultimate goal is to see men feeling better, whatever they are facing."

Help us raise $350,000 by 30 June so that we can plan for additional nurses to help more men like Terry.

Click here to download the PCFA flyer as a PDF.

The Odyssey Program (In-School Workshops for Adolescent Boys)

2012-03-31T09:12:00Z

March 2012 Newsletter

Welcome to our first Newsletter for 2012. We hope you can spare a few moments to read what is new with us and how we might be able to support you and your school in bringing out the best in your boys in 2012 and beyond.

New workshop … Uncovering the Leader in You - 2 hours on who are the great leaders and why, what qualities are needed and how to develop them. This workshop can be integrated into the day workshops. Aimed especially at year 10 -12s.

James Gibbs has recently been appointed State Manager for Victoria. James has been with Odyssey since its beginning and the boys love him. For booking for Victoria contact him directly on 0450 519 344

We were recently endorsed by the Australian Institute of Male Health and Studies (AIMHS) which is a honor and we are thrilled to be part of such a prestigious organisation that only endorses best practice in boy’s and men’s health.

Here is a sample of the comments from the boys and teachers at events already run this year including a recent Leadership evening with 9 Private schools

“The whole thing was fantastic, there wasn't a single thing I didn't enjoy. I learnt about controlling my anger and not changing who you are just to fit in” Year 10 Point Cook

“It was great to be able to have an insight into what I can improve on as a leader and evaluation my skills in order to work towards different goals – I learnt to believe in yourself as well as others, how to listen to someone properly, and having a sense of humour is important – Really effective program – gave a strong insight into the value of leadership” Year 10 Rostrevor

I learnt to focus on listening as a leader, self evaluation – know your strengths and weaknesses – Great seminar – I had the Odyssey Program twice now and would like to see it again - Year 10 PAC

The presenter was dynamic, interesting and engaged the young people present - Teacher from Rostrevor

Want to know more about us??? Invite us to visit your next staff meeting or lunch time to demonstrate to your staff what we do and how we work. It’s free!

New conference – Young Minds in Sydney June 21st 22nd – Great line up! www.youngminds.org.au

For booking or to discuss our workshops contact us on 0411 265 872 or visit us at www.odysseyprogram.com

Dads Talk (Rosebery, Sydney)

2012-01-18T08:52:52Z

An opportunity for fathers to get together and not only talk about their experiences but to also gain some real, practical ideas around being a parent.

When: Every Wednesday 6.30pm - 8pm
Where: Level 3, 55 Mentmore Avenue, Rosebery NSW 2018
Contact: Jason or Tim on 02 8314 9494 or 0419 461 422

For many men, becoming a father changes their lives beyond belief. Your priorities change, your relationship changes and your new family demands skills, qualities and emotional capacity from you that you didn't know you had.

Today, a father's role is quite different from past generations. We believe that not only does this changing, more hands-on role need to be recognised, it also needs to be supported. Some common themes include:

Relationship issues
Work/Life balance
Sleep deprivation
Managing relatives
Difficult emotions.

Every stage of parenthood comes with its own unique challenges. As such, this group is open to all fathers. Each member comes with their own skills and needs of the group and each has something to offer the other men. As the complexity of your role as a father unfolds and you find yourself feeling alone and without support, this on-going group is an opportunity to talk about and process the experiences you are having and find that you are not alone.

Men’s Health Forum NSW (MHFNSW) Launch Report

2011-12-07T12:28:00Z

A meeting was held on Friday December 2, 2011 to launch the Men’s Health Forum of New South Wales (MHFNSW). It is the intention of MHFNSW to function as the peak body in NSW to improve the health, relationships and wellbeing of men and boys in NSW. 45 people who work in organisations, services and individually in the men’s health area attended and endorsed the creation of the Forum and assisted in setting priorities for our future work. We thank them for their participation. This Report outlines the purpose, principles, Terms of Reference, goals and priorities for the MHFNSW. We see this as a great beginning....

Click here to download the report.

Dad's pain spawns a lifeline

2011-12-04T12:22:00Z

United … Gary and Amy Sillett with their son, Callum. Photo: Jacky Ghossein

A YEAR ago Gary Sillett lived through an expectant father's worst nightmare - the premature birth and subsequent death of his child.

He and his wife, Amy, had been excited about the impending arrival of their second son, Isaac, but on December 8 their baby was born by caesarean 14 weeks early.

Isaac "fought like a trooper" in the neonatal intensive care unit at Sydney's Royal North Shore hospital, before he died peacefully in his parents' arms two days later. His ashes are in a rocket-ship-shaped container placed in the backyard of their Ryde home.

Mr Sillett took on the responsibility of caring for his wife and their toddler son Callum, informing loved ones and friends, completing reams of paperwork, organising the funeral, figuring out how he was going to go back to work to pay the medical bills as well as dealing with his own grief, anger and guilt.

"Your whole world is turned upside down," Mr Sillett said.

He found that fathers dealing with the death of a child or trying to cope when children have life-threatening illnesses were often sidelined and there was a big gap in support services for fathers.

That's when he decided to create Pillars of Strength, an Australian-first initiative designed to give practical support to fathers and some respite from the day-to-day stresses.

A pilot program is now under way at Royal North Shore offering advice to fathers about how to manage their finances.

The Pillars of Strength "time out" respite program provides free tickets to NSW cricket matches at the SCG. Passes to NRL matches will be available next year. Fathers can also get vouchers for buckets of balls at a golf driving range, passes to the gym and parking at the hospital to make visits easier to manage.

When Mr Sillett started looking around for support services after the death of Isaac he found there was little on offer.

"Most of the services are focused on the mothers," he said.

Mr Sillett recalls receiving a phone call from a close friend who suggested that they play golf with another friend to help take his mind off the stress.

"I told him I couldn't do it, but he kept insisting. So, to shut him up and with my wife's blessing, I said OK.

"It was a great four hours. It gave me a chance to reflect, refocus and re-energise and think about other things and not think about the daily grind that we had just been through.

"That's how I got the idea for Pillars of Strength."

The hospital's nurse unit manager for neonatal care, Alexis Fox, said she had received great feedback from fathers about the program.

Mr Sillett is planning to expand Pillars of Strength to other hospitals in NSW with neonatal intensive care units and to assist fathers who have older children with serious illnesses or disabilities.

Swimming in the dark is no barrier for man who is blind

2011-09-29T03:42:00Z

For many, losing their sight is the worst thing they could imagine happening to them. More than 30 years ago, this fear became reality for Melburnian, Allan Bates.

“I had an accident in my teens resulting in the loss of the left eye. I developed Sympathetic Opthalmia and my over active immune system slowly destroyed the right eye over 30 years. I am now totally blind, can't even see light and have been for about 20 years” said Mr Bates.

Instead of shying away from his vision loss, Mr Bates became more determined than ever to take on new challenges and prove to people in his life that anything is possible.

“Shortly after I learned I was legally blind, I tried downhill skiing, rock climbing, abseiling and canoeing. That first year made me realize that blindness was not a barrier to life and that it was up to me to succeed at whatever I chose to do,” said Mr Bates.

Over the years, Mr Bates has been involved in many sports at championship level across the world including tandem bike riding and tenpin bowls. However, after many years Mr Bates has enjoyed taking up a favourite recreational activity – swimming.

“As a youngster I loved swimming. I never thought I’d be able to swim if I couldn’t see but thanks to Blind Sports Victoria, I was recently given the opportunity to swim in the local pool with a guide. It was just wonderful!” beamed Mr Bates.

Mr Bates continues to swim on a regular basis at his local pool. Over the years, Blind Sports Victoria has opened up many doors of opportunity for Mr Bates and hundreds of other Victorians who are blind or vision impaired.

“I often say, and I genuinely believe, that I'm a lucky bloke! I have a wonderful wife and we really enjoy time with our children and our grandchildren,” added Mr Bates.

“I have so many terrific memories from my involvement in Blind Sports Victoria over the years. If success is measured by winning gold medals, I do have some! But for me the real achievement over the past 40 years has been enjoying the journey - making friends with people from other countries, the wonderful camaraderie I've been exposed to and hopefully positively influencing others,” shared Mr Bates.

To find out more about getting involved in blind swimming or other blind sports, please contact Blind Sports Victoria

Background
Blind Sports Victoria Inc. (BSV) was established in 1977 is a statewide body providing support services to over one thousand blind and vision impaired people. Their range of sport and recreational activities including Cricket, Indoor bias bowls, Swimming, Golf, Tennis, Track and field, Sailing, Ten pin bowling, Snow skiing, Swish, Tandem bike riding, Lawn bowls, Square dancing and Walking program.

Help & Hope - Dads in Distress Newsletter Spring 2011

2011-08-30T07:46:00Z

Spring is finally here! With the new season comes a change of outlook, perhaps a new spring in the step, and a fresh optimism about all that can be experienced in the great Aussie sun.

For those going through the harsh Winter of separation and divorce its hard to imagine life ever getting better. You may even be dreading this Father's Day. That's where we come in. We know things CAN improve, and usually do. In all that our DIDSS staff and volunteers do, whether its the Helpline, Groups, One-on-One Support, Website, FaceBook, or this simple newsletter, we try to help dads and their families wake up to a brand new day. To mark this new season we have brought you some encouraging news, practical tips, tools and insights.

Love to hear what you think of it, and if there's stuff you would like to see covered just give us a call, send an email or give the FaceBook page a try. Have you joined the website yet? Always the best place to start to show your support.

Enjoy the sunshine and may this Father's Day be better than the last!

Warm Regards,
Barry Guidera
CEO DIDSS

Rock star P!NK only has one regret in life

There is one standout singer who has been getting in the faces of ‘Stupid Girls’ (and guys) for the last decade, challenging them to avoid the mistakes she made in her troubled adolescence. Looking back she has only one thing she is ashamed of, and you can see her turn it around right here. This is a must-read and must-see for anyone estranged from their Dad, or if you're a parent who has been 'p!nked'.

High Tech Ways to Stay in Touch with Your Kids

All dads struggle from time to time to connect with their kids. If you are separated then it may take some extra ingenuity to make it happen. So you're technophobic? In this practical article Dads just like you talk about what has worked for them.

The Legal Side of Divorce

For most people the high cost of legal representation is prohibitive, and they decide to represent themselves. Robert Larkins specialises in family law and his book "Breaking Up" is a guide to courts and the law. Get the gist of it in this radio interview - they cover a lot of territory and topics. Essential for all DIDSS Volunteers and Staff, and anyone who would benefit from a FREE chat with a decent lawyer about navigating the family law system.

Shaun Smith Rides for Kids

A Nambucca Heads dad wants to do his part and raise funds and awareness so Dads in Distress Support Services can help kids and their fathers get the contact they deserve. How far would you ride on the Pacific Highway for the cause?

Is the Health System Failing Men?

Australian males die, on average, five years earlier than women. Four experts discuss why this longevity gap is so difficult to bridge. "We have made it normal for women to have regular screenings. We need to make the same effort to make it normal for men to go for regular check-ups" ... Professor John Macdonald

Family Law - Fixed or Flawed?

According to Sue Price from the Men's Rights Agency there's been some movement in the Senate last week on the proposed changes to Family Law. Warwick Marsh from Dads4Kids (Fatherhood Foundation) is calling for urgent action is required by all to prevent the roll-back from occuring. Get the latest news here, as well the history of our involvement.

Radio Show Honouring Solo Dads

Newcastles's Breakfast Show with David and Tanya are calling for all solo dads to register for their special Father's Day focus. Check it out by clicking on the link above. Let's show our support to KO-FM 102.9 for honouring dads by tuning in on weekdays 5.30 - 9.00am.

The Riots and Fall of the British Empire

The recent London riots simply confirm what the social sciences have been telling us for decades now: children need fathers, not the welfare state. Australian social commentator Bill Muehlenberg says we can learn a lot from what has happened in Britain. But will we?http://www.billmuehlenberg.com/2011/08/14/fatherlessness-and-violence/
http://www.billmuehlenberg.com/2011/08/12/lessons-from-the-british-riots/

$5.4million to build and maintain new centre for Perth’s homeless men

2011-08-05T05:06:00Z

Western Australian Child Protection Minister Robyn McSweeney and Premier Colin Barnett today announced $5.4million funding to build and operate a new homeless men’s shelter in Perth’s CBD.

The announcement has been made during National Homelessness Week as part of the Liberal-National Government’s strategy to deliver quality services and investment in social reforms to support those in need.

The ‘Acute Homeless Night Shelter’ is a partnership between the State Government and St Vincent de Paul Society and is expected to nightly house up to 10 men who would otherwise be sleeping on the streets.

“The State Government will provide $4million for capital works and acquisition of land with an additional $1.4million during a three-year period from 2012 to operate the shelter,” Mrs McSweeney said.

“This is a much-needed shelter for Perth’s homeless. It will provide a roof over the heads of up to 10 men a night and a safe place to sleep.

“The facility will also have kitchen and shower facilities and have a huge impact on the lives of Perth’s homeless men.

“The substantial nightly intake gives homeless people the option of being off the streets and receiving respite from sleeping rough.”

The Minister said the project was additional to the Government’s $68million contribution to the four-year, $135.1million National Partnership Agreement on Homelessness (NPAH) plan to help fight homelessness in Western Australia.

The NPAH aims to reduce overall homelessness by seven per cent, rough sleeping by 25 per cent and indigenous homelessness by 33 per cent by 2013.

Movember Funds Australia’s First Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses

2011-07-21T13:05:00Z

We’re all aware of the fantastic work done by the McGrath specialist breast cancer nurses but now, as a direct result of Movember funding, men with prostate cancer are set to benefit from a similar program that will deliver nurses specialising in prostate cancer. The new program – the first of its type in Australia to focus on prostate cancer was recently launched by Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) and will ensure men diagnosed with prostate cancer benefit from coordinated, specialist nursing care.

Over the next three years, the Prostate Cancer Specialist Nursing Pilot Program will focus on recruiting up to 15 nurses in both metropolitan and regional Australia to provide men with prostate cancer both clinical and supportive care. Unlike other nurses, the Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses will be an expert point of contact for patients and their families during the entire cycle of prostate cancer care – including post treatment support.

Dr Anthony Lowe, Chief Executive of PCFA, says

“Prostate cancer care adds to the load on hospital services, and the benefits of coordinated care have been well documented. It is now time to deliver an improved level of support and care to men affected by prostate cancer. Our vision over the next ten years is to have up to 120 specialist nurses helping to meet the demand for effective services to men living with prostate cancer.”

Better Prostate Cancer Support for the Gay Community

2011-07-20T12:30:00Z

Australian gay and bisexual men living with prostate cancer will soon benefit from the development of a pilot support program – funded by Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) – that will deliver improved support and educational resources to the gay community.

PCFA will fund the development, implementation and evaluation of the Shine a Light pilot support program. It aims to improve awareness of prostate cancer risk and access to support.

With support from ACON, Cancer Council NSW, Cancer Council Victoria, Victorian Aids Council, La Trobe University, Monash University, the Urological Society of Australia and New Zealand and Male Care USA, the Shine a Light program is part of the “Gay and Bi-sexual Men’s Prostate Cancer Initiative” which PCFA is chairing.

It aims to recruit men from the gay community – both men diagnosed with prostate cancer and their partners – to attend three half day workshops in Sydney and Melbourne to help identify the specific prostate cancer support-needs in the gay community.

Dr Anthony Lowe, PCFA’s Chief Executive, says the success of the program will be a direct result of PCFA and its partners working closely with the gay community.

“It is essential that PCFA works with men from the gay community who are affected by prostate cancer so that we are not making assumptions about their prostate cancer support needs and to ensure that we are delivering a program that provides the best source of support for this community,” said Dr Lowe.

In light of the prevalence of prostate cancer in Australia, Dr Lowe emphasised the importance of developing initiatives like the Shine a Light program so men from a variety of communities have easy access to support.

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare , each year around 20,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer, and close to 3,300 men die as a direct result of the disease.

“With prostate cancer affecting such a vast number of Australian men and their loved ones, it is now time for PCFA and its partners to reach out to men in all communities so we can deliver an improved level of support. We hope to gain a lot from the Shine a Light pilot to help us with future initiatives,” said Dr Lowe.

Men who are interested in registering for the program of three half day workshops in Sydney or Melbourne are encouraged to contact Greg Millan from Men’s Health Services by email at greg@menshealthservices.com.au or mobile 0417772390. The three workshops are a package and men need to attend all three sessions.

Time & Dates

The Sydney workshops will take place on the 16th, 23rd and 30th August 2011 from 10:00am – 1:30pm at ACON, 44 Elizabeth Street Surry Hills NSW 2010 and registration is essential.
The Melbourne workshops will take place on the 6th, 13th and 20th October at the Victorian Aids Council/Gay Men's Health Centre and registration is essential.

For more information about prostate cancer, speak with your doctor or free call 1800 22 00 99.

For all media enquiries related to this program, please contact:

Greg Millan
Men’s Health Consultant
Phone: 0417 772 390
Email: greg@menshealthservices.com.au

Report about the Western Sydney Men and Family Relationship Network’s Father Inclusive Practice Workshops and Forum

2011-07-12T11:59:00Z

At the end of 2010, the Western Sydney Men and Family Relationship Network commissioned Andrew King (Groupwork Solutions) to facilitate a series of workshops on Father Inclusive Practice.

The initial plan to conduct a father Inclusive Practice process only had four organisations nominated seven people to attend. This was considered to be an insufficient response. A new plan was developed where Andrew King facilitated a series of workshops:

Engaging men in family based programs Workshop – 5th April 2011
Working with men's responses to conflict Workshop – 18th April 2011
Father Inclusive Practice Forum – 28th June 2011.

Outlines for each event are included in the report. Overall 67 different people attended at least one of the three workshops. The events were organised as a partnership between the facilitator, the Network and FWT&DP who managed the promotion and registration process. All events received very positive feedback.

Survivors & Mates Support Network (SAMSN)

2011-07-04T06:30:00Z

SAMSN is a volunteer·based organisation that aims to facilitate peer support for men who experienced sexual abuse in Illeir youth. SAMSN works to increase public awareness of the effects of such abuse on men and helps those who are trying to address what happened. SAMSN is not affiliated with any church or government organisation.

They are running an eight-week group for men who are survivors of child sexual assault on Tuesday evenings from July 26 to September 13, 2011, from 6pm to 8pm, in the Inner West of Sydney.

You can download a flyer with more details from here

Men's Groups in Tasmania

2011-03-14T02:00:00Z

Many men have enquired about the whereabouts and contacts for various Men's Groups around Tasmania. To this end TASMEN has collected a number of groups that have agreed to be put on the site with their information. These groups are independently organised and conducted and any requests for more information must be directed to the particular group identified in the listing.

Solutions for Men - Healthy lifestyle advice, counselling, psychological therapy

2011-03-13T03:00:00Z

The Australian Institute of Male Health and Studies will soon be offering a range of unique specialised services to males, including: healthy lifestyle advice, counselling, psychological therapy, and mental health support. Services to be offered within our Solutions for Men program, will be tailored specifically for males, and provided by highly trained professional practitioners.

Launch of the new Dads In Distress website

2011-03-02T03:00:00Z

Dads in Distress Support Services are excited to announce that we have redeveloped our website. Now we can keep you better informed of our new and improved services and events, as well as general issues affecting fathers and families. One of the many innovative features provided by the highly professional (and sympathetic) web designers Webforce Five, is our ability to tailor-make how we help you, whether you are a dad experiencing separation, or a family member, concerned citizen, volunteer, professional or politician. By taking five minutes to join the website we can automatically alert you of only the information that is relevant or of interest to you.

Healthy men at work

2011-01-19T03:00:00Z

Healthy men at work is an effective program which improves men’s health and wellbeing in the workplace. The program takes a practical, no fuss approach, presenting material in a men friendly and humorous manner, and provides follow up support to assist in maintaining changes. Healthy men at work addresses men in the context of their whole lives and does not just focus on physical health, but integrates emotional and social health. The program also provides a complementary focus on individual change and organisational change processes. The most challenging aspect of designing and implementing a men’s health program for most HR practitioners, is engaging men so they want to take part and remain involved. This is where we can help. Our program takes a strength based approach in our work with men; which makes it easy for men to gain knowledge on health issues and make good decisions to improve their health and achieve more in life. One of the shortfalls of men’s health and lifestyle improvement programs has been lack of sustainability.

Working with men affected by violence - training program

2011-01-19T03:00:00Z

Sydney, March 21 2011, 9am - 4pm, Forum Room 1, Hyde Park Inn, 271 Elizabeth Street, Sydney. In Australia up to one in three victims of family violence are male but the needs of male victims remain largely unmet even though the issue of men affected by violence in intimate relationships has been reported for many years. This is Australia’s only training program for health, welfare and community workers that provides information and strategies for working with men who are affected by violence in their relationships.

The program covers the background to the problem and context violence and abuse occurs in; the affect of domestic violence on men; strategies for working with men from a strengths based perspective; a model for working with men affected by violence; what to consider and how to build services for these men into your agency. The program is pro- vided in a strengths based model that addresses the social determinants of health.

The cost is $220 for a one day training program, training resources and a copy of “Men’s health & wellbeing: an a – z guide”, all refreshments and lunch plus 3 month follow up support with service or resource development. Registration is open now for this program. Email or phone 0417 772 390 for a program flyer and registration form.

Men's Anger Management (Lifeline Harbour to Hawkesbury)

2011-01-01T03:00:00Z

Lifeline Harbour to Hawkesbury runs an 8 week Anger Management course for men. This program is for men (18 years and over) who are experiencing difficulties controlling their anger. Uncontrolled anger can lead to violent outbursts resulting in domestic violence, road rage, or loss of employment. The program helps men understand key issues about anger and control. The anger management classes are held for 8 consecutive sessions, once a week at our Gordon office. The next course commences Wed 23rd February 2011.

New Parent Infant Network (NEWPIN) supporting fathers

2010-12-03T03:00:00Z

NEWPIN offers parents and children a unique opportunity for positive changes in their lives and relationships, based on four core values of support, equality, empathy and respect. NEWPIN is a preventative, early intervention program, offering intensive work with families facing potential or actual child-protection issues. The award-winning program combines peer support, quality early education and personal development that is structured and therapeutic. NEWPIN centres are based in local communities and offer safe and supportive environments. There are six centres in Australia: Bidwill, Doonside, St Marys, Bidwill Fathers Program, (operated by UnitingCare Burnside). Geelong (operated by Bethany Community Support), Launceston (operated by Northern NEWPIN) and Canberra (operated by UnitingCare Kippax).