In a show of solidarity towards positive male role models, Women On The Move last month hosted lunch at the Downs Club in Toowoomba to celebrate International Men’s Day.
This year’s theme was Positive Male Role Models, which highlighted the strength, wisdom and compassion that men bring to our families, work places and wider community.
Women On The Move president Mikaela Smith said the event united community leaders, advocates and supporters to recognise the contributions of men and encouraged open conversations about the challenges they faced, particularly around mental health.
She said with global suicide rates among men remaining high, the event underscored the need for greater awareness and support.
“I have three sons and it was my idea to bring it to the committee that we celebrate International Men’s Day because we celebrate International Women’s Day,“ Mrs Smith said.
“I wanted to, I guess, celebrate the men in our lives. So, obviously a lot of us have husbands, fathers and sons and that was probably the real take home of it.
“I would like to see my boys grow up in a gender-equality community and celebrate and acknowledge both men’s and women’s challenges and, I guess, that’s why I felt so strongly about bringing the idea to our committee.
“Together, we will aim to break down the stigma around mental health and remind men of their value, resilience, and the importance of seeking support.“
Masters of Ceremony Chris Black and Alisha Weston hosted the lunch, which featured a panel of speakers, including Amanda Dalton of women’s support centre Protea Place, Chris “Millsy“ Mills, a paramedic, farmer and entrepreneur, Bob Carroll of Australian Events and Adair Donaldson, a lawyer and advocate.
Together, they shared personal experience and insights on the role of men in society and discussed ways to create a supportive environment for men’s wellbeing.
Following their individual presentations, a panel discussion invited guests to engage with the theme and explore mental health advocacy for men.
Women on the Move began in 2003 with the aim of providing a platform for members to connect, build relationships and expand their professional networks.
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Guest speaker Adair Donaldson highlighted the importance of collective effort, saying:
“It was great to be in a room of individuals who are motivated to play their part in addressing the challenges that men of all ages are facing.”
Chris ’Millsy’ Mills, another guest speaker, added:
“Thank you for the invite and opportunity. Great event to have open conversations and meet new people. Let’s have more of them.”
Bob Carroll captivated the audience with a powerful analogy about trees, encouraging attendees to consider the roots of their own health and wellbeing. “Once you understand your family tree and any genetic impairments within it, you can actively seek advice and take steps to ensure that you have the very best future health and wellbeing.”
Amanda Dalton from Protea Place spoke of the importance of safe spaces for both men and women, highlighting that although there is still much work to be done, organisations like Protea Place have supported men in the past and would continue to advocate for both
genders. Her message reinforced the idea that we are better together in the journey towards improved health and wellbeing for all.
Chris Black, who co-hosted the event alongside his wife Alisha, shared a thought-provoking reflection on the evolution of masculinity:
“Today really highlighted the evolution of masculinity and the changing role of men in society and as a part of the family unit. While we can sometimes focus on poor behaviour, it’s wonderful to be reminded of the incredible male role models in our community that we
can all aspire to be like.”
Gay Hold, representing one of the supported charities, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the event’s impact: “I am deeply grateful to Women on the Move for its unwavering support and generosity. The funds raised today will make a meaningful difference in our community, thanks to the incredible contributions and dedication of volunteers. As a representative of one of the three charities, I was so moved by the unity, friendship and shared vision on display. It was truly heartwarming to see everyone come together to show support and celebrate the amazing men in our community.”
