Connect with a Yearly Men’s Gathering in Australia
What is Men’s Work?
Yearly Men's Gatherings and Men’s Work (‘Where Men take charge of their own lives, through the Role Models & Support of other great Men’) can become a massive part of your life. It will radically change your life, and change the way you relate to and interact with partners, others and particularly other Men.
Unfortunately, there’s more to talking to other Men, rather than saying the obligatory ‘G’day mate, how are you going?’
Most men feel that they can’t talk about anything (apart from Sport), let alone their feelings, to share their journeys with other Men without the fear of judgement or ridicule, most Men stop and go back within themselves for safety on hearing this.
Please have a look at the 'About'' page to see more of the ways that Men's Work will help you.
There are currently 18 Yearly Men’s Gatherings per year in Australia, some are part of Open Common Ground training, plus others that are not part of the Common Ground training. There is one in New Zealand.
A Yearly Men's Gathering is where you can connect with other men, from all backgrounds, religions, political and sexual persuasions. These gatherings offer a safe, non-judgmental, supportive space where men can explore the connections, modalities, challenges and exercises that facilitate real and lasting change.
They all offer high-quality workshops from varied Modalities, and you are free to take part in as many or few as you wish. This is your time, to use as you wish but hey, why not take advantage of the experience?
During these Gatherings there's ample time to partake in as many workshops, chill with other Men having a Coffee, playing the occasional game of 'footy', or volleyball.
There is also a:-
- 'Heart Space' or 'Circle', the heart of a Men's Gathering journey. It is an invitation to stand in front of every man at the Gathering, drop your mask and speak your truth as it comes to you at the moment.
- A Cabaret, where Men are encouraged to tell a joke, read some poetry, sing a song, these can be a solo, or with another new friend! It's a way for each Man to give a little back to the Gathering.
All Yearly Men's Gatherings run based on confidentiality. Confidentiality is what makes us feel safe to be radically honest in our sharing. When we hear another man’s story we’re privileged to have their trust. Other men’s stories are not ours to share. By all means share your own story, but not those of other men.
Yearly Men’s Gatherings in Australia in Monthly Order
The Sydney Men's Festival is a chance to talk, relax, participate in and run workshops with other men. The Festival is an annual event held at the end of January each year on the second last full week of the school holidays.
The Festival is open to all men regardless of colour, creed, religion, sexuality, profession or employment status.
Affinity Groups: At the previous festivals, we formed small groups to provide support and companionship. These affinity groups have provided a focus for each of us to share our experiences throughout the Festival. The groups take turns in preparing meals, washing up and cleaning.
Workshops: Anyone at the Festival can present a workshop. In previous years, workshops have explored such issues as men’s health, love, fear, shame and guilt, spirituality, anger, wild man, meditation, community, initiation, parenting, touch, sexuality and sensuality, wrestling, singing, and massage.
Food: The first meal of the festival will be served at dinnertime on Sunday. For cost and health, meals are mainly vegetarian, sometimes with meat options, and are organised by the affinity groups with the help of the food coordinator. You are welcome to make arrangements if you have a special diet.
Activities: The camp is in bushland overlooking the Georges River, so there is plenty of opportunity for swimming and bush walks. A cabaret is normally held on Saturday night.
Accommodation: Only a limited number of bunks with a mattress are available in dormitories or cabins, so please bring your sheets and pillow. Also as a backup, please bring a tent, sleeping bag, pillow and mattress.
Child Care: The Sydney Men’s Festival welcomes children (boys of all ages and girls under 7). Fathers are responsible for the well-being and behaviour of their children. A father’s group is encouraged to meet once a day to discuss and coordinate children’s issues and activities.
No Gatherings currently ...
Four per year, March, July and November, December
The Island of Men #10 is here.
The Island of Men was founded in early 2018 by Mikey Ivany and a small team of men who had a simple mission - To help good Men connect with other good men, and themselves.
Island of Men #10 - Daring, Brave and Free
Island of Men (IOM) is a 1-day event dedicated to helping men find a deeper connection with self, community and nature. We are excited to announce that this event will be unlike any island before. We have an incredible new location, new facilitators and a brand-new program.
IOM is a unique experience that provides something different for each individual.
For some men, it is a welcome reprieve from the pressures of life, a lifting of the weight of expectation that has been placed on them by work, family and society.
For others, it is a place to realise and release limiting stories, unhealthy relationships & behaviours that no longer serve.
(From IOM https://islandofmen.site123.me/)
Friday, March 10th – Monday 13th, 2022
The theme for the 25th TMG is ‘Relax, Rejuvenate, Rejoice’
Given that it’s been a tough couple of years with Covid and isolation, we’ve put together a TMG that is designed to create opportunities to relax, rejuvenate, recharge and be kind to yourself.
There’ll be time and opportunities to:
- reconnect with old friends and make new ones
- reflect on both inner and outer landscapes through individual and shared activities
- recognise and celebrate your creativity and resilience and much more
Plus, great food, fun (the Sunday night concert is definitely on, so bring your jokes, poems, and music along to share) and the chance to celebrate the 25th TMG
See More:-
Two per year, April and December
Island of Men (IOM) is a 1-day event dedicated to helping men find a deeper connection with Self, Community and Nature.
We are excited to announce our upcoming event, 'IOM - This is Me' will be occurring on December the 7th at Cataract Scout Park.
IOM is a unique experience that provides something different for each individual.
For some men, it is a welcome reprieve from the pressures of life, a lifting of the weight of expectation that has been placed on them by work, family and society.
For others, it is a place to realise and release limiting stories, unhealthy relationships & behaviours that no longer serve.
And for the majority of the IOM attendees, it is just a place to feel at home with other blokes who want to learn, grow and be happy.
This is a day built on radical self-reliance, a commitment to owning our stuff and taking steps to create positive changes where necessary. It's also a day of a complete community, knowing that life can be so much better when we are there for one another.
IOM will be host to an array of talented facilitators running workshops throughout the day, focusing on mission, communication, movement, breathing, purpose, expression, appreciation, self-love, inner child work... and more.
The IOM experience can be somewhat difficult to describe, so rather than trying to hammer a point home, have a read of what past attendees have said about their Island experience.
"What a day! What a fantastic experience to be surrounded by so many amazing hu-men. The workshops were great, the love felt by all, the power of the Sacred Heart circle. This is a much-needed facility in a time where I, as a man, realise it's on me to create the change I want for myself and my surroundings. And to spread that change to all men around me. A powerful tool to claim back our masculinity."
"What an amazing day. Very full and heavy heart by the end, in a very good way!"
"Truly powerful and inspirational work behind the guys that brought this beautiful space together. What an Honour it was to be a part of this event !!
An absolute must for Men - Please do more."
"A great day organised by great people, I went in hungover and came out inspired!"
Look, if you are considering coming to IOM at this point... just do it... you have nothing to lose and everything to gain.
What to bring:
- We ask that each man bring a plate or dish of food which will be shared by all the men in attendance for lunch.
- Plenty of water
- Appropriate clothing
- Grab yourself a ticket - and if you want to do something nice for a man, friend or family member, if you want to strengthen a bond you have with the best mate or a brother, bring them along. You'll both be thankful for it.
- There will be updates and instructions on the IOM Facebook page (facebook.com/islandofmen) leading up to the event so make sure you like the page to ensure you are receiving updates.
Looking forward to seeing you at 'Island of Men - This is Me'
(From IOM https://islandofmen.site123.me/)
Manshine - Let’s Show Up and Journey Together
When we think of where we are in Life’s Journey and particularly with recent events in mind, 2022 presents an opportunity to reflect, reset, build on and grow from what we have all experienced. Manshine this year offers a supportive and welcoming environment to do just that.
This year’s Manshine begins with the call Let’s Show Up and Journey Together.
For us, Showing Up is all about being there; being there for yourself and being there for one another. And of course, what is better than being able to do it together?
We will create an easy flow gathering this year, offering space for you to reflect and connect between workshops and activities.
The Journey will offer three main stages; Connection, Challenge & Growth, and Integration & Liberation.
Most importantly, as we journey together, we also have the freedom to choose our pathway, by selecting the workshops, sessions and conversations that are right for each one of us.
Connection is about coming together to create a container of Brotherhood, Community and most importantly, Trust… We’re all in this together. The Journey begins within and flows out from here.
Challenge & Growth will give you have the opportunity to choose your adventure by taking on a challenge or by diving into an area that is calling for your attention.
Integration & Liberation will give you an opportunity to integrate what you have gathered along the way and be potentially liberated from what has been holding you back.
Everyman Men's Gatherings
Twice per year, May and November
April 30th - 2nd May 2020
Friday 27th November – Sunday 29th November?
“Everyman” this successful event is on again at Camp Eureka.
Join us over three days to reconnect with yourself, others and nature.
The intention for Everyman Gatherings is to co-create a space where men, having the desire to share themselves deeply and authentically, can connect, support and challenge one another towards greater self-empowerment, intention, self-awareness and self-responsibility, whilst nurturing deeper respect and connection to nature and each other.
When: Friday 3rd May 6 pm – Sunday 5th May 2 pm, 2020.
Where: Camp Eureka 100 Tarrango Rd Yarra Junction, Vic 3797 Australia
This will be the 4th Everyman Event in the Yarra Valley. Those who’ve attended previous gatherings know what a great opportunity these events are to meet and enjoy the company of other blokes who are up for being real, dropping the bravado and experiencing the gift of each other’s presence.
What you can expect this weekend is plenty of laughs, some great workshops (anyone is free to offer a workshop), music, heart sharing, new perspectives, and plenty of time to relax and reflect without the distraction of technology. This is an opportunity to concentrate on yourself, as a man, without fear of judgement.
Everyman is:
- Drug and alcohol-free
- Non-religious
- Welcoming of all:
• Religions
• Races
• Gender identification
• Culture - Open to men 18 + (not suitable for children)
- Everyman is run under the auspices of Men’s Wellbeing Inc.
The official start time is 6 pm but the camp will be open from 3 pm if you wish to arrive earlier.
A Call to the men... to gather......to connect and feel one another’s presence.. to be heard and understood as men… to be seen and to see one another’s vulnerability, our strength… to discuss what it is to be an authentic man in today’s world...
Connect and meet together to examine and explore that which is missing in our modern world… our birthright. Few ways are truly open to us as men today, to prove our mettle and to test the limits of masculinity.
The frontiers now lie within ourselves, in our ability and capacity to bravely and honestly explore who we are, without macho ideals, and to discover the man we strive to be. Join us for a weekend of viewing, witnessing, and discussing the archetypes of modern masculinity.
What to Expect
An opportunity for us to sit, as men, and in the company of men, to be seen, heard and felt in an ongoing discussion about what it is to be a man today. This space is ours to create whatever we feel most appropriate, outside of any judgement. An array of skills and teachings will be on offer, from movement practices such as Qi Gong, martial arts and natural movement, to ceremonial and profound healing practices both physical and energetic, to primitive and survival skills such as starting fires and hunting.
There will also be plenty of opportunities for us to sit in a circle, talk, process and, of course, share and express through musical jams and creative expression. We welcome fathers or carers to bring along sons (aged 11 and up) to witness and be a part of this uniquely masculine event.
Sydney National Men's Gathering
1th – 14th June 2021
‘Lost’ 'In life’s journey, how do we know if we’re going the right way?'
Even if we keep following all the usual signs will the safe, comfortable, familiar path ever really satisfy us? If we got lost would we find only fear or also help from strangers and our own unexpected inner strengths.
At “Lost” 2021, we will endeavour to get lost together and to find more of ourselves. More Information ...
Check-in: from 4 pm to 6 pm on Friday 11th June
Check out: 3 pm Monday 14th June
Venue: Karuna Sanctuary, Saywell Road, Katoomba, NSW 2780
Sydney National Men's Gathering
No Gatherings currently ...
Essentially Men
Get more out of life
Whether your life is working well or you have some things to sort out, you will find that attending an Essentially Men workshop will provide you with powerful resources for your journey of personal discovery and growth.
Renewal, change, understanding…freedom
Thousands of men from all over New Zealand and all walks of life have found this outstanding programme a powerful catalyst for renewal and change.
So will you. You will build trust and feel safe. You will get a deeper understanding of yourself and will leave with the freedom to be the authentic you. These are not just talking workshops – they are potent experiences that will wake you up, give you skills, and change your life.
Men Being Real - Deep healing and inner authority
When men come together in a group with the agreement to take a journey deeper into themselves it becomes safe to let down our guards. We can drop beneath the surface of feelings in a way not normally allowed for men. We can attend to the healing of memories done with fathers, mothers and others, which affect the way we relate in our present lives. We can understand the roots of anger and depression and connect with our inner authority. (from http://www.essentiallymen.net/)
ManHood Men's Gathering
Friday 26th August – Sunday 28th August
Bornhoffen PCYC, 3510 Nerang-Murwillumbah Rd, Numinbah Valley
What is Manhood Men’s Gathering?
Manhood Men’s Gathering is a weekend retreat where men meet to talk, share, laugh, eat and hang out, as well as participate in guided workshops on men’s topics such as relationships, parenting, work and wellbeing.
For over twenty years, Manhood has helped thousands of men discover themselves, celebrate masculinity and build lasting friendships with other good men.
So how does it work?
Manhood men’s gathering is a community and a culture that is open, accepting, warm and non-judgemental. Every man is welcome and can expect to learn and share equally. Come along and share your story and listen to the stories of other men. Deep respect is asked and given.
The gathering is held at beautiful Camp Bornhoffen, Numinbah Valley in the McPherson Ranges of the Gold Coast Hinterland. Enjoy mountain country, fresh air, a mountain stream with a waterfall, fire pits and spectacular views.
We encourage men to bring any musical instruments they play, e.g. didgeridoo, guitar, drums, etc.
For More Information About Men's Gatherings
No Gatherings currently ...
Menergy
Menergy is the Victorian arm of a national not-for-profit organisation Men's Wellbeing that has been providing men’s events and men’s support groups for over 20 years.
Menergy is an all-inclusive 3 day Men’s Gathering wilderness retreat that provides workshops and rituals around celebrating masculinity and helps men discover more of themselves in a nurturing, supported and trusted way. The detailed program we run has been developed for over 15 years and has seen thousands of men grow and learn through this process.
At the heart of a Menergy weekend is the opportunity to attend and partake in many of the myriads of workshops that are focused on Men’s health and wellbeing. These workshops help men to be empowered in their masculinity through vulnerability, support, and a greater understanding of trusting ourselves and our unique gifts as men. (from Menergy.org.au)
Previous Menergy Men's Gathering Welcome Manuals
Friday 15th - 18th October to Monday
Getting to Bedrock is the metaphor for this gathering. Men get to a place of solid ground, deep sharing, broad discussion and living in the community. Some could call it a little bit of dream time, a time of exciting visioning and finding what is real in our lives.
This call to community is made by our Elders who ask you to come to Bedrock to join and be supported by them as we live for a time in communion and brotherhood.
Bedrock is based on the ancient mysteries of circle work, where each man is respected for their truth and each man is supported to stand in the circle to speak from their heart. Now and then we will break out and explore topics that intrigue us in the deeper space of smaller groups.
Conversations go where they need to go. What needs to be discovered and revealed – happens. Because of this organic nature, men attending will need to have experienced men’s work in some form. We do not see Bedrock as suitable for a man’s first dip into men’s work.
(More Information on Men's Gatherings)
Man Alive
MAN ALIVE is open to all Men from any background, religious, political or sexual persuasion. We encourage men to be real with themselves and others in a supportive and non-judgemental environment.
Dardi Munwurro - Victorian Aboriginal Men’s Gathering
Dardi Munwurro delivers the annual Victorian Aboriginal Men’s Gathering in Melbourne.
Aboriginal Men from across Australia come together and engage in conversations and problem-solving around key issues that are impacting the Aboriginal community.
November 4th - 6th 2022
The Southern Men's Gathering is a 3-day residential experience for men in the heart of the beautiful Fleurieu Peninsula.
The theme of this year’s Gathering is ‘The Integrated Man’ is an opportunity for men to come together and reflect upon our individual life’s journey so far.
The Gathering offers a weekend of openness, authenticity, depth, support, respect and trust as we experience a range of activities designed to help us explore and potentially make sense of our own journey, and beliefs or to simply hang out with like-minded men. We will have the opportunity to make new connections, form support networks and community, and celebrate authentic conversations about “how life is for me” in a welcoming, open, inclusive, non-judgmental, and safe environment.
We invite you to join us in exploring your own unique expression of positive masculinity and hope to see you there.
The Details:
Cost: $360
Includes all sessions, content, events, accommodation and all meals.
See EveryMan Me's Gathering above ...
See Island of Men ~ Melbourne above ...
West Australian Men's Gathering
Introducing the WA Men’s Gathering 2023
The theme for the 2023 Gathering is Men’s Resilience – in changing times. It will be held at Camp Kelly located near Dwellingup over the weekend of 10th – 12th November.
This peaceful bush setting will provide a back-to-nature feel for the whole weekend.
You can expect fire pits, workshops, great meals, group work, yoga, fun, ceremony, laughter, music, bushwalking, storytelling, and above all… mateship.
The Gathering program starts on Friday evening and finishes around 2 p.m. on Sunday. You have the option of arriving on Friday afternoon to spend some extra time getting to know the other men participating before the formal program starts. (from https://www.wamensgathering.org.au)
The cost to participate this year will be $450
Online registration is available
Further information is available on our Facebook page and website and you can also email us at wamensgathering@gmail.com
The ticket price includes accommodation, all meals, activities and lots of good men to talk to. Presenters will be announced in due course.
(from https://www.wamensgathering.org.au)
Australian men are in a perilous place.
The hard facts: 6 of 8 suicides. 7 days a week
Our Men need a time out. A moment to catch their breath. They’re calling for a safe space. To let it out. To be open, honest, vulnerable.
A place to rediscover connection, meaning & purpose in their lives. We’re listening carefully. Opening our hearts & minds.
And crafting such a place.
Welcome to a fresh, new approach to Australian Men’s Health & Well Being. Together, we’re creating something rather different.
Join us as we re-imagine healthy masculinity.
Welcome to our place. To your place. A safe trusted space for men to deeply reconnect.
- To ourselves. Each other.
- To Country.
- To First Nations wisdom.
- To Community.
- And the people we love most in our lives.
Story
It was early evening. Two men sat quietly around a fire on Jaara - Dja-Dja-Wurrung country. When one asked a simple question of the other. An idea was born.
“What would it take to get a small group of men together for a deeply connected gathering out here on country?..”
That night we dreamt in a powerful gathering. One that redefined the stereotypes around how men connect. We called in a safe space. A sacred place where men could share openly, deeply. Where each man would be truly seen & clearly heard
A place where time would slow down. Where we would listen to and learn from each other. A place where a man might first imagine then welcome in a more connected version of himself. To be a better man
That Autumn, 15 men answered the call. The first Gathering Men took place in the country at tanderrum. The land was acknowledged and slowly awoken. Our community backed us. With belief, kindness, encouragement & wholesome food cooked with love.
The gentle guiding hand of Gunditjmara - Djabwurrung Elder Uncle Edward Alfred Egan-Lovett helped show us the way
Yet, it was the men themselves that really started something that first Autumn Gathering.
Two per year, April and December
See April details ...
My FREE Awesome Comprehensive Monthly Men's Event Newsletter is now available as a download, it has had a major overhaul in style and presentation. It consists of 70+ full-colour pages of extensive information on Men’s Work events that promote Men’s growth and Health, where they can become the best version of themselves.
It contains all of the following information:-
- Special Annual Events
- Month Specific Events
- Regular Content
- 47 Regular Physical Men’s Groups Physical events throughout Australia & The World.
- 15 Regular Men’s Groups Online events throughout Australia & The World.
- Yearly Men’s Gatherings
- Men’s Coaches/Mentor Articles
- Guest Articles
Each FREE comprehensive Event Newsletter contains events that support Men’s growth and Men’s Health. The events are checked to ensure that they are suitable to be promoted and included in the comprehensive monthly newsletter.
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