The Men's Table launches in Doyalson

Central Coast Primary Health Network, Central Coast Council and the national men’s mental health and suicide prevention charity, The Men’s Table, is launching its 180th table in Doyalson in the north of the Coast. This builds on the three already established tables at Kincumber, Ourimbah and Bateau Bay.

14 February 2024

 

AN introduction over dinner to The Men’s Table through stories and dialogue is the theme for men interested in being part of a local Men’s Table.

 

The Men’s Table is all about men serving men. The first Men’s Table (MT1) began in 2011 in Sydney with 12 men who have met once a month for dinner and continue to do so. It is now a registered non-profit organisation that has grown to over 150 Tables all around Australia. It creates a unique environment for men to share openly about their lives, their challenges, their highs and lows with a group of men who they learn to know, like and trust. It is made up of men of all ages ; and of different professional and personal backgrounds, orientations and histories. And each man has his own life journey.

 

Each Men’s Table creates a sense of belonging, community, peer support and camaraderie that is lacking for many men, even for some who already have a group of mates. Being part of a Table contributes to mental, emotional and social well-being whilst being a powerful support to individual members’ life journeys .

 

The Doyalson Men’s Table first meeting, called an entrée, will take place on Wednesday, 28 February from 6.15pm to 8.45pm at the ‘Doylo ’ on 80 Pacific Highway, Doyalson.

 

Council Unit Manager of Community and Culture Glenn Cannard said men are invited to come along to the launch event, share a meal and a conversation and learn more about the program.

 

“The purpose of the men’s tables is to get men off the couch, into community, and talking with other men about whatever they need to share – the highs and the lows. Men DO talk – and not just about footy,” Mr Cannard said.

 

“The Entrée is an opportunity to meet other men, learn how a table works and decide whether you would like to be part of the monthly meetings.”

 

According to the National Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing, one in five Australians aged 16-85 will experience a mental health disorder and the Central Coast, has consistently had the highest number of deaths by suicide in Australia since 2016.

 

The Men's Table Program is a safe place for local men to come together to share and be heard in a confidential and non-judgemental environment, creating a sense of belonging, camaraderie and connection.

 

By creating safe places for men to come together, show emotion and share feelings, it is possible to break down stigmas associated to mental health.

 

Visit the Men's Table website to register for the event.