Rain fails to dampen spirits as local blokes step out for mental health in Inverloch

DESPITE drizzling rain men came from across the region to support the inaugural Men’s Wellness Walk at the Inverloch Recreation Reserve.

More than twenty walkers from Inverloch, Dalyston, Jumbunna, and Melbourne joined the free community event, proving that a damp winter morning was no barrier to connecting and tackling a critical health issue head-on.

The enthusiasm shared by the participants highlighted a growing regional commitment to breaking down social isolation and building stronger emotional support networks for men.

Bass Coast Shire Mayor Cr Brett Tessari led the charge, joining forces with local community champions to support the initiative. Walking side-by-side were representatives from local groups including the Inverloch RSL, Man Walk, Parkrun, Men’s Shed, and Men’s Night Out.

The diverse turnout demonstrated how deeply regional organisations are willing to collaborate when it comes to supporting local wellbeing. The casual stroll took participants out of the Recreation Reserve, looping along A’Beckett and Williams Streets.

The relaxed environment quickly broke down traditional barriers, allowing for easy, open conversation among the participants. Side-by-side walking, rather than face-to-face discussion, provided a comfortable backdrop for men to speak freely without the usual pressure often associated with health discussions.

Describing the walk as "unreal," Mayor Tessari praised the simple yet profound impact of the gathering, noting that it was, above all, good fun. "Met some nice guys and had a conversation," Cr Tessari said. "That is exactly what today is about, just being there, having a chat, and realising you are part of a supportive community."

The event encouraged men of all ages to connect, chat, and support one another by offering a casual space for local men to chat with old and new mates.

The initiative addressed a well-documented challenge in regional areas, where seeking help can sometimes feel daunting due to privacy concerns or stigma. By normalising these casual catch-ups, organisers hope to make it easier for men to speak up when times get tough.

Prominent local figures lent their time to the cause, with John Langford from the Inverloch RSL, Simon Mills from the Inverloch Man Walk, and Peter Jones, Vice President of the Inverloch Jazz Festival, all joining the walk.

Their presence highlighted how deeply embedded the drive for better mental health outcomes is within the fabric of Bass Coast community groups. The walk served as a reminder that preventative health starts with simple, everyday habits like movement and mateship.

“Even if you feel you are not facing major life challenges, your presence could be vital to someone else,” said Inverloch RSL sub-branch Secretary Lindsay Guerin. “I am very pleased given the weather, it’s the first time and I’m very happy with the 20 walkers.”

Following the success of this inaugural outing, community leaders are already looking to the future. Plans are underway to establish the walk as a recurring fixture on the local calendar, ensuring that the momentum built on this rainy morning continues to grow.