A grassroots men’s mental health initiative focused on connection, conversation and community will host an information session in Lakes Entrance next month, inviting local men to learn more and get involved.
The Men’s Table, a charitable organisation dedicated to men’s mental health and community building, will hold an information session on Tuesday, March 17, at the Lakes Entrance Grand Hotel Motel,
starting at 6.30pm.
The session follows the establishment of a local Men’s Table in Lakes Entrance late last year and is aimed at welcoming new participants interested in joining the initiative.
The Men’s Table provides adult men with the opportunity to meet monthly with the same small group, share a meal and talk openly about the highs and lows affecting their lives, health and wellbeing — in a safe, confidential and judgement-free environment.
Regional host Bill Karametos
said the initiative was designed to challenge the long-held stigma that “men don’t talk”.
“This is a safe space to speak openly,” Mr Karametos said.
“When men are given the opportunity to share how they’re really going, they build genuine friendships and stronger connections, which in turn strengthens the resilience of the whole community.”
The Men’s Table operates on a simple, low-cost model, with no membership fees or charges. Participants only cover the cost of their own meal and drink on the night.
Local Tables meet once a month at the same venue, with the
same group of men, creating continuity, trust and meaningful relationships over time.
The organisation’s vision centres on healthy men, healthy masculinities and healthy communities, with the belief that fostering social connection is a preventative approach to improving men’s mental health and emotional wellbeing.
According to anonymous annual surveys conducted nationally, participants report significant benefits from involvement in a Table.
Results show:
– 84 per cent felt a stronger sense of social belonging
– 73 per cent reported improved connection
– 95 per cent said the Table provided a safe place to share
– 85 per cent felt more comfortable expressing vulnerability
– 80 per cent experienced benefits to their mental health and wellbeing
– 61 per cent reported improved communication skills
The Men’s Table operates across multiple states, with local Tables supported by a central coordination team known as “The Kitchen”, which provides governance, mentoring and ongoing support to ensure each Table remains healthy and effective.
Mr Karametos encouraged men from across Lakes Entrance
and surrounding communities to attend the information session, whether they were seeking connection, support, or simply curious to learn more.
“This is about bringing men together, reducing isolation and creating places where it’s normal to talk about life — not just the good parts,” he said.
Further information about the event is available online through the Lakes Entrance Men’s Table Entrée, with posters and QR codes also being distributed locally.
Community members and businesses are encouraged to share the information with anyone who may benefit from attending.
