Men across West Moreton continue to face high rates of preventable illness, delayed diagnosis and untreated mental health challenges, and this March a new community wide initiative aims to change that.
West Moreton Health Foundation has launched its first men’s health month, bringing together local clubs, sporting leaders and community organisations to tackle stigma, normalise conversations and encourage men to act earlier when it comes to their health.
Under the campaign message, it takes balls to tackle men’s health, the Foundation will lead a month of events and fundraising activities designed to challenge silence and invest in quality care close to home.
The statistics make the case for action.
One in five men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. Almost one in two Australian men will experience anxiety or depression. Every day in Australia, nine people die by suicide and seven of them are men. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for men.
Despite these figures, many men delay seeking support, avoid preventative health checks or struggle to speak openly about physical or mental health concerns.
Scott Young, CEO of West Moreton Health Foundation, said the new initiative aims to shift that pattern across the region.
“We are proud to champion efforts that raise both funds and awareness for men’s health across our region,” Mr Young said.
“Men continue to face higher rates of preventable illness and poorer health outcomes, often because concerns are left unspoken or support is sought too late. Addressing this gap is critical, not only for individual wellbeing but for the strength of local families, workplaces and communities.”
“We are grateful for the support of local clubs whose role as community gathering places makes them appropriate settings to start meaningful conversations. We want to normalise discussions about men’s health and encourage earlier action.”
“We aim to increase awareness, support vital research and invest in local equipment that improves care close to home, ensuring better health outcomes for all people in our region.”
A month of community drive events
Men’s health month will feature a series of events delivered in partnership with local organisations across West Moreton.
The campaign will officially launch with a breakfast at Club Parkview on Wednesday 4 March. Guests will hear from keynote speaker Professor Jeff Dunn AO, an internationally recognised leader in cancer survivorship and prostate cancer research, currently Chief of Mission and Head of Research at Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia. The event will include a plated breakfast, raffles and community prizes, with funds supporting men’s health initiatives across the region.
On Friday 6 March, The Q will present the Alfie Langer Legends Lunch in partnership with Rugby League Ipswich, proudly supporting West Moreton Health Foundation. Rugby league icon Allan Langer will headline the event alongside a lineup of Australian sporting greats. The long lunch will combine live panels, entertainment, auctions and raffles, reinforcing the campaign message that it takes balls to tackle men’s health while raising vital funds for local programs and equipment.
On Friday 20 March, Club Services Ipswich will host a men’s health luncheon featuring live entertainment, raffles and guest speakers including Jackson Weir-White, Owner and Head Coach at Asylum MMA in West Ipswich and professional MMA fighter with Team Compton MMA, alongside former Australian professional boxer Michael Katsidis. The event focuses on connection, awareness and practical conversations around men’s health and wellbeing.
The month will conclude with a charity golf day hosted by Club Parkview on Thursday 26 March at Wolston Park Golf Club. The four player ambrose event will bring the community together for 18 holes, lunch and presentations, with proceeds supporting men’s health initiatives across West Moreton.
How the community can get involved
West Moreton Health Foundation encourages individuals, businesses and community groups to get behind the campaign by:
- Donating to support vital equipment and programs
- Attending one of the featured events
- Hosting their own fundraiser
- Purchasing men’s health merchandise
“Get behind West Moreton Health Foundation this March,” Mr Young said.
“Join us and help tackle men’s health. Together, we can make a real difference for men and their families across West Moreton.”
To learn more, donate or book tickets, visit our men's health campaign page.
