Although Men’s Health may have ended for another year on 16 June, local charity organisation Brave Brothers is continuing to share the importance of men continuing to be aware of both their physical and mental health and looking out for each other.
Brave Brothers director David Facer said having been out in the community speaking to people and having them share their tips for Men’s Health, it really stood out to him that they were from personal experience and ones that had really worked for them individually.
“When we visited World GymBurpengary we were overwhelmed by the conversations we had with the public and other service providers who appreciated our approach and were keen to know how we could support men in their locality,” he said.
“I believe that in the 12 months since our establishment, we are emerging as a trusted brand for men’s health supports in the region.
“Our brand of masculinity, humour and positive engagement style fits with a Queensland community and most people already expect a folded arms with attitude pose for photographs now from us.”
Needless to say, Brave Brothers has definitely been sharing their story with others, even hosting their own Dinner for a Cause on Wednesday 19 June, which David said was a truly positive event that engaged with representatives from the Cancer Council Qld and Relay for Life reminding guests of the need for check-ups and the reality of using our Top 5 to Stay Alive resources.
“Our guest speakers all spoke from the heart and brought the reality of living with cancer and men’s health issues into the light with such emotion and positivity. We ended with a poem recited by local Poet Robb Parr which really rounded the evening off in true Brave Brothers fashion.
“We also took over a Saturday at Bargara parkrun which is an iconic platform to showcase awareness, the culture of fun, friends and fitness is in line with Brave Brothers Values, we always have a great time meeting with men after the event too, we will be back there during Mental Health Week too.
“We have also found that our Thursday morning Alpha Beats Drumming Circle allows an opportunity to talk, while “learning a few beats on the djembe drums.
“We are located in Bargara overlooking the sea with mermaids and whale spotting now a big part of our drumming activity.
“The coffee after the drumming is also where some of the worlds troubles are washed away with conversation too.
“Our Oodies Café Safe Space has also been a success with staff and general public and we have supported men and women who have seen our resources there and who doesn’t just love being in the Oodies environment.”
The final Brave Brothers event is at World Gym is where David and the Brave Brothers team are launching the final Brave Place in this round which has been supported with funding from the Department of Social services and Social Shift, during the gyms first birthday which aligns with the end of Brave Brothers’ Health Month.
“It is important to remember that suicide is a silent epidemic connected with men’s issues and I often get asked What does Brave Brothers do?
“Well, “Brave Brothers listen to and work with men, before it’s too late and I think it’s never too late to save a life.
“We can do this by supporting connection through groups, providing education and training for the workforce and even by starting the conversion at workplace breakfasts or smoko time.
“We are looking forward to working with Kepnock SHS student in developing new resources, launching a social motorcycle group, a men’s walk, podcasts and creating new Brave Places with interested businesses.
“We are keen to hear from people interested in volunteering or supporting our cause via email at davidfacer@bravebrothers.org
