Gurindji Men’s Shed Program
The Gurindji Men’s Shed program is an initiative designed to provide a supportive and social space where our indigenous men can come together to engage in meaningful activities, share experiences, and support each other in a relaxed, non-judgmental environment. With a strong focus on mental well-being, physical activity and community engagement, our Men’s Shed is a meeting place for men looking to connect, grow and contribute to the Kalkarindji and Daguragu communities.
WHAT IS THE MEN’S SHED?
Our Men’s Shed is a community-based workshop that offers men of all ages a space to pursue hands-on projects, from woodworking and metalworking, yarning circles, fitness, gardening and more. It’s a place where men can learn new skills, maintain existing hobbies or just take part in practical activities that promote mental and physical health. The program operates on a simple principle: providing men with a place where they feel comfortable, valued and able to build lasting friendships, all while engaging in meaningful work.
THE PURPOSE AND BENEFITS
The Gurindji Men’s Shed Program goes beyond just providing a space to build projects, its about creating a safe, supportive environment where men can talk openly about their challenges and experiences. Many indigenous men face isolation, depression and other mental health struggles. The men’s shed acts as an informal and accessible platform to address these issues.
Key Benefits include:
Mental Health Support: Engaging in hands on activities, building something tangible or simply having a chat with someone can help alleviate stress, anxiety, and feelings of isolation. Men often feel more comfortable talking in a non-clinical setting where they’re surrounded by others who understand their experiences. They will also be given access to services that cater and have an understanding for mental health and men’s wellbeing.
Physical Well-being: Regular participation in physical activities such as woodworking, fitness, fishing or fixing up equipment keeps members physically active, which is crucial to overall health and well-being.
Community Engagement: Our Men’s Shed will foster a sense of belonging and community pride. Our members will contribute to local projects, volunteer for social causes and create a network of friendships that combat social isolation. By getting involved, men can make a real impact in their communities.
Skill Development: Members will have the opportunity to learn new trades enhance existing skills or even teach others what they know. This sense of accomplishment along with acquitting practical skills builds confidence and self-esteem.
Intergeneration Connections: The Gurindji Men’s Shed will serve as a space where older generations can mento younger men, passing down valuable knowledge, life skills and culture. There interactions bridge generational gaps and foster mutual respect.
Connecting to Country: Our Men’s Shed will have a focus on connecting Aboriginal men back to Country. Connecting to Country is an essential concept in the health and well-being of Aboriginal men, acknowledging the deep, spiritual and cultural relationships between Indigenous people and the land. For Indigenous men, Country is not just a place, it is a source of identity, healing and strength. In encompasses the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual connections that are vial to living a healthy and balanced life. By nurturing this connection to Country, Indigenous men are empowered to lead healthier lives, strengthen their communities and ensure future regenerations can continue to thrive in harmony with the land and their cultural heritage.
The Gurindji Men’s Shed initiative serves as a testament to the power of shared experiences, camaraderie and the importance of a supportive community providing that’s its never to late to learn, grow and connect, developing a better version of ourselves. These positive changes will lead to a healthier environment within our homes, families and community.
Men’s Forum – 2023: Healing
In October 2023, we hosted our inaugural Men’s Forum, centred around the theme of Healing. The purpose of this forum was to create a safe, open space for men to come together, share their experiences and support one another. We aimed to foster an environment where men could speak openly about their mental and physical health, connect with services that support men in the community and empower each other to lead stronger and healthier lives.
Through this forum, we sought to address the unique challenges and risks men face daily – whether it’s navigating societal pressures, mental health struggles or physical well-being. Our goal was to not only help ourselves heal but also to lay the groundwork for the next generation of men of all backgrounds, so that we can rise together, stay strong and move forward as a unified force.
Men’s Forum – 2024: Positive Changes
In 2024, the theme of our Men’s forum was Positive Changes. The aim of this forum was to engage with men of all ages in both the Kalkaringi and Daguragu communities, coming together to create meaningful and lasting change. We focused on building a healthier environment within our homes, families and communities by encouraging personal growth, fostering resilience and promoting well-being.
The forum served as a catalyst for positive transformation, where men had the opportunity to reflect on their lives and explore ways to become the best versions of themselves. In partnership with CFC and Balanced Choice, we hosted a comprehensive 3-month workshop in Kalkarindji. This program was designed to support local men from both communities in areas like health, fitness and personal development.
The key focus of this year’s forum was not just about improving ourselves individually but also creating a ripple effect that would positively impact our families and the broader community. Together, we aimed to build a culture of support, accountability and collective strength, one where positive change is encouraged and celebrated.
The success of the workshops and the forum itself were testament to the commitment of the men in our communities to make meaningful changes in their lives. By continuing to work together and share our experiences, we are creating a legacy of health, strength and resilience that will carry on for generations to come.
