Both within the group and out in the Melton community, a community group is aiming to curb loneliness and provide support to local boys and men.
Formed in 2018, the Melton Men’s Group provides support through financial, mental, social, material, and physical support to local boys and men through a range of initiatives, activities, and events.
The group meets every Thursday, from 5–8pm, at the Arnolds Creek Children’s and Community Centre to socialise over a tea or coffee and enjoy activities including carpet bowls, pool, table tennis, chess, cards, and light exercise sessions – with additional activities held throughout the week.
Men’s Group president Les Chitts said the organisation is not a service group but is committed to supporting local men who might be feeling isolated.
“When we started … we didn’t realise how many men that were out there who needed male support,” Mr Chitts said.
“The beauty of the group is a lot of friendships [have] formed.”
He said the group also provides a positive alternative for other outlets, such as gambling or going to the pub.
Secretary Trevor Boyd-King said the main purpose of the group is “getting the guys together”.
“We’ve evolved into one of those groups where we’re out in the community in a big way,” Mr Boyd-King said.
The group’s major annual event is International Men’s Day on November 19, where this year, the organisation will host a two-course dinner event at the Melton Entertainment Centre with guest speaker and AFL legend Kevin Sheedy.
The men’s group also provides material aid to local men through creating men’s hygiene packs to be distributed by local support organisations – and to local boys through a fundraiser towards helping male Year 10 students from three local schools to continue with their schooling.
Those aged over 21 years who are interested in joining are encouraged to contact the group.
Contact: Les, 0429 431 370 or Trevor, 0404 494 649
