On Thursday 22 August, we were thrilled to welcome over 550 fathers/special persons and sons to our annual Father’s Day Breakfast. The McPhee Gymnasium was abuzz with excitement as our community came together to prepare the space for this special event. The gymnasium, beautifully transformed by the collective efforts of our staff and volunteers, radiated a warm and welcoming vibe that set the tone for the morning.

As everyone enjoyed breakfast, the atmosphere was filled with a sense of togetherness and appreciation for the important role fathers and special persons play in our lives. The highlight of the morning was our guest speakers, Ian Maclean and Graham Hocking, who delved into the crucial topic of Men’s Wellbeing.

Ian Maclean, a father of two 18-year-old boys, spoke passionately about his involvement in Men’s Work, including his role at Headspace, where he contributes to a program aimed at growing the future mental health workforce.

Graham Hocking, a father to an adult daughter and son, brought his 25 years of experience as a registered counsellor to the discussion. As the founder of the Authentic Man Project®, Graham has dedicated much of his life to helping others through Men’s Work. He shared how this work has positively impacted his life.

Their talks touched on the breadth of activities that Men’s Work encompasses across a man’s lifespan, the purpose it serves for both men and communities, and the vital question of what kind of man each of us is modeling or becoming. They also highlighted the significance of Men’s Circles, where men can come together to support and learn from one another.

The Father’s Day Breakfast was not just a celebration of the bond between fathers and sons, but also a powerful reminder of the importance of Men’s Wellbeing. We hope that our guests left feeling connected, uplifted and inspired to continue fostering these important relationships in their lives.

Download the Men’s Wellbeing Flyer here: Open Mens Group Flyer