A Men’s Discussion Group in Knox City Council is helping to form connections and friendships between older men in the area.
More than 20 local men attended the recent inaugural meeting at Orana Neighbourhood House in the Victorian municipality.
An initiative of the Council on the Ageing (COTA) Victoria and Older Men: New Ideas (OM:NI), Men’s Discussion Groups provide an opportunity for men over the age of 50 to interact with other local men.
Discussions are wide-ranging and conducted in a friendly, respectful and confidential environment.
Mayor Darren Pearce said Council was pleased with the local turnout and that, as a result, the Knox Men’s Discussion Group will now run twice monthly.
“Men’s Discussion Groups are a really worthwhile idea and Council is really pleased to see local men back the establishment of a group for Knox,” the Mayor said.
“We know that an initiative like has the potential to make a real difference to the lives of men by lessening a sense of social isolation and encouraging healthy interaction.
“The feedback Council received from the first session has been very positive, and we look forward to more local men having the opportunity to take part in future.”
The Mayor thanked COTA and OM:NI and Orana Neighbourhood House for their efforts in organising and hosting the inaugural local Men’s Discussion Group.
“An event like this doesn’t organise itself and, on behalf of Council, I extend my thanks and congratulations to COTA, OM:NI and Orana Neighbourhood House upon their efforts,” he said.
“What we need now is ongoing interest and participation in the local Men’s Discussion Group and I encourage as many local men over the age of 50 [as possible], to consider getting involved.”
