Gathering Day 1: Kicking Off the National Men’s Health Gathering
Brisbane Showgrounds, Wednesday 22 October 2025
The opening day of the National Men’s Health Gathering promises a big start with four dynamic streams to choose from, showcasing the depth and diversity of men’s health initiatives across Australia.
Men’s Sector Showcase
There is a choice of four streams, including the Men’s Sector Showcase, which will shine a spotlight on grassroots projects and community groups making a difference on the ground. Expect engaging sessions on Men’s Sheds, Men’s Circles, Men’s Gatherings, and initiatives using sport and physical activity to connect and support men.
Groups to meet on Day 1 include:
- Men’s Gatherings: Men’s Wellbeing (QLD), The Mankind Project (QLD), Reconnected Men (QLD)
- Sport & Physical Activity: Walking Football (NSW), SOLiD MEN (NSW), Wellteam (SA)
- Men’s Sheds: Australian Men’s Sheds Association (NSW), WA Men’s Sheds, Tasmanian Men’s Sheds, QLD Men’s Sheds
- Local Men’s Groups: Brave Brothers (Bundaberg, QLD), Mongrels Men (Sydney, NSW), Grab Life by The Balls (Sunshine Coast, QLD)
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Male Health Convention
Day 1 will also mark the launch of the 10th Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Male Health Convention, first held in Ross River in 1999. This important gathering provides a platform for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men to share knowledge, celebrate culture and strengthen approaches to male health. Speakers include:
- Dr ‘Uncle’ Mick Adams, Research Fellow Newcastle University
- Jason Bonson, National Project Coordinator, Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Male Health, Flinders University
- Dr Clinton Schultz, Director, First Nations Strategy and Partnerships, and Head of First Nations Research, Black Dog Institute
- Karl Briscoe, CEO, National Association of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Practitioners (NAATSIHWP)
- Jack Bullman, Founder and CEO of Mibbinbah Spirit Healing
Men’s Health Research Forum
For those keen to dig into the evidence, the Men’s Health Research Forum will bring together leading researchers to present and discuss the latest findings shaping men’s health policy and practice. There’ll be a range of academics from around Australia sharing their latest findings in sessions focused of topic such as:
- Evidence that informs men’s health policy and practice
- Research into men’s mental health
- Men’s health risk behaviours
- Optimising men’s health promotion in sport settings
Our friends at SAMSN (Survivors and Mates Support Network) have also helped put together an important research-based session on the impact that childhood sexual abuse has on men’s mental health and wellbeing.
Spotlight on International Men’s Day
With International Men’s Day (19 November) fast approaching, an interactive workshop will explore how IMD can continue to grow in Australia. This session invites delegates to roll up their sleeves, share ideas, collaborate, and hear from the people already running successful IMD events across the country.
Workshops and Interactive Sessions
Among the interactive highlights is a session led by Shay Leighton, founder of the Tough Guy Book Club and AMHF board member. A seasoned social activist and community organiser, Shay brings over 25 years of experience in storytelling practices, leadership development and building stronger communities through honest conversations.
Closing Panel & Networking
The day will close with a high-profile panel discussion on “What keeps men healthy”, featuring special guests including Olympic gold medallist swimmer Duncan Armstrong OAM and former rugby league international Ryan Girdler.
And don’t miss the welcome reception and networking event in the early evening, free to all delegates. It’s a perfect chance to connect, recharge and reflect on a powerful first day.
Register for the National Men’s Health Gathering
Learn more about our Invited Speakers
Find out about Day 2 at The Gathering
Find out about Day 3 at The Gathering
