Skip navigation

Walking Together: Aboriginal Men's Group Builds Connection and Wellbeing

A new men’s walking group in Broken Hill is bringing Aboriginal communities closer. Led by Ngiyampaa man Anthony Hayward, the group attracts around a dozen Aboriginal men, ranging in age from their mid-teens to mid-50s, for regular three-kilometre walks.

One participant, 54-year-old Darren Bates, credits the social interaction and exercise with helping him stay active after surviving a heart attack just 18 weeks ago.

“I could have died, [so] I'm trying to keep fit, and walking helps the old heart keep going,” Mr. Bates shared with ABC News. The camaraderie has also supported him in quitting smoking, demonstrating the positive impact of these gatherings.

Hayward, inspired by Aboriginal men’s walking groups in Sydney and the Tribal Warriors Aboriginal Association, is humbled by the group's success. “It's so simple — these guys get together every Friday, we just walk and talk. Everyone has a laugh, everyone gets to know each other. It's a chance for everyone to connect," Bates explained, emphasising the group's positive influence on mental and physical wellbeing.

“We have both younger warriors and older warriors here. This is the type of leading by example we need for our community,” Bates added.

Aboriginal health practitioner Gregory Phillips highlighted the profound impact of group activities. ““Support, understanding, connection, respect, this is in short supply in society for Aboriginal men, so any place they can get it is important,” said Phillips, an adjunct professor at Griffith University's School of Medicine.

Phillips also emphasised the importance of societal respect. “If you treat any group of people in society as if they are trash and don't pay them [and] don't respect them, they will turn that anger and frustration inwards on themselves and towards each other," he warned, stressing the need for inclusive initiatives.

Men's Walk in Sydney acknowledging Men's Mental Health Week in September.

Photo courtesy the Tribal Warriors Aboriginal Association. 

 

RELATED MEN’S HEALTH NEWS


Be the first to comment

Please check your e-mail for a link to activate your account.

JOIN THE MEN'S HEALTH MOVEMENT

Stay in touch with AMHF by signing up to our Men’s Health newsletters.