Men's health discussed

A meeting of community members, leaders and service providers has been held at Umina to discuss ways to improve the wellbeing and health of men of all ages and backgrounds.

The Central Coast Men's Interagency's June meeting was held at the Mingaletta community centre in Sydney Ave to coincide with International Men's Health Week.

Local member of the Australasian Men's Health Forum board, Mr Kim Hopkins, presented a new report from the Federal Government entitled "National Male Health Policy".

He told the meeting that this was the first time a specific strategy had been launched with a focus on the social determinants of men's health and wellbeing.

"This is a significant document that needs to be considered and implemented on the Central Coast for males of all ages," he said

The report stated the life expectancy of males was 78.7 years and females 83.7 years.

It also stated that "good male health is a strength that enables men to enjoy life, fulfil the important roles in families, community, social and economic life."

Mr John Roberts, men's resource worker from the Benevolent Society, told the meeting that recent Dads Day Out projects at Gosford and Wyong were celebrations of the importance of significant positive male role models in the community.

He said plans were already under way for events next year.

Mr Ed McCarthy, regional development officer from the Central Coast Community Council, said that the objective of building a stronger community was enhanced by reinforcing the importance of positive male contributions.

The next meeting of the group will be held at the Tuggerah Lakes Community Centre, Bay Village Rd, Bateau Bay, at 1pm on July 20.

For further information, email rdo@thecccc.org.au.

Press release, 18 Jun 2010 Darren Maxwell, Central Coast Men's Interagency