Brigades in District 20 hosted a series of health events during September and October focused on men’s health. This follows three successful International Women’s Day events held in March this year.
Kerang Fire Brigade hosted a very welcoming and successful breakfast on R U OK? day on 13 September with special guest speakers Brian Gibson, Mayor of Gannawarra Shire Council and Dr John Shorky from Northern District Community Health.
Inglewood Fire Brigade hosted a special evening on 2 October with a focus on mental health. Speakers included Jeremy Forbes, founder of HALT (Hope Assistance Local Tradies) and recipient of the 2017 Worksafe award for OHS Achievement of the Year, and Jon Champion from Inglewood & Districts Community Bank Branch of Bendigo Bank.
Mental health and social workers from Inglewood and Districts Health Services also attended.
Lockington Fire Brigade members hosted the final event on 19 October at the Lockington Football Club.
The Lockington event featured four keynote speakers including Brett Henderson, former Bendigo Pioneers Head Coach and Community Ambassador for Outside the Locker Room.
Other speakers include Ross Sutherland from Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, Peter Strange from Bendigo Community Health and local identity Peter Hyden.
The evening was supported by the Lockington Bush Nursing Centre nurses who conducted health checks on the night.
The speakers at all the events shared their stories of the challenges that can impact on men’s health and wellbeing.
CFA Operations Manager Peter Taylor said, “The events around the district are a new initiative to help our members understand the importance of looking after their health and wellbeing, especially men who traditionally take a ‘she’ll be right’ attitude.
“We want to take time to acknowledge and celebrate the contribution that our members make to society and community, but at the same time raise awareness of wider lifestyle issues that can have an impact on health and wellbeing.
“Our members enjoy their roles and contribute a significant amount to their brigades. We want to ensure they know what support is available both in CFA and within the wider community to support their ongoing health and wellbeing,” continued Peter.
“The fire brigades that hosted these inaugural events should be commended for highlighting the importance of these initiatives within our district.”
The brigades were supported by members of the Volunteer Sustainability Team.