Council is partnering with the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation and local health service providers to implement the Sons of the West Program for the first time ever in the East.
Running every Wednesday from 16 March to 1 June, Sons of the West is a free men's health program created by the Western Bulldogs Football Club Community Foundation.
Kashif Bouns, General Manger – Community and Government Relations at the Western Bulldogs, has seen the positive affects of the program firsthand.
"We see so many incredible social and health outcomes from Sons of the West each year; the program truly makes a difference in the lives of participants and it's something we are so proud to be offering again in 2022.
"I encourage any man of any age to take the plunge and get involved. Bring along a friend, brother, father or uncle and follow in the footsteps of thousands of men from across the West who have already benefited from the diverse range of sessions," Kashif said.
Councillor Mike Symon, Mayor of Maroondah, is especially passionate about the program.
"Men's health is extremely important, however it is often overlooked or dismissed by men and, at times, their support network," Cr Symon said.
"Men's health shouldn't be a taboo topic; and Council is committed to supporting and encouraging all men in the Maroondah community to look after both their mental and physical health.
"So, show your strength, make lifelong friends and get involved in the community with the Sons of the West program," he said.
About Sons of the West
Spanning over 10-weeks, Sons of the West aims to educate men on key issues impacting their health including nutrition, mental health, respectful relationships and intercultural understanding.
The Health and Wellbeing team at Western Bulldogs will work closely with Council to ensure the program is inclusive, fun and addresses the health needs of the community.
Each week comprises of an hour of interactive health education, followed by an hour of physical activity catering to all abilities.
Topics covered include:
- Nutrition
- Mental health
- Gambling
- Alcohol
- Gender equity
- What's in our backyard.
Benefits of the program
Cr Symon believes that the benefits of being involved in Sons of the West will stretch far beyond the scope of the program.
"The Sons of the West program will not only benefit the participants, but the broader Maroondah community.
"The program will begin a bigger discussion on acceptance and understanding of men's health and will encourage open and honest conversations about the topics raised throughout the 10 weeks," Cr Symon said.
Along with the long-term effects of the program, it also benefits the participants by enabling them to:
- Develop connections to local support groups
- Get active with a range of exercises for any fitness level
- Get involved in a community of great people, and meet other local guys
- Receive encouragement and support to set up social groups that continue long after the program concludes
There will also be giveaways and incentives throughout the program, including customised Sons of the West items and the chance to win signed merchandise from the Western Bulldogs Football Club.
Research and evaluation from Victoria University found that Sons (and Daughters) of the West programs engaged hard-to-reach populations; increased physical activity; promoted ongoing community participation; increased psychological wellbeing and mental health; resulted in positive health behavioural changes; increased awareness of gender inequality; and increased confidence and feelings of self-worth.
Western Bulldogs Community Foundation
Western Bulldogs Community Foundation is the community services arm of the Western Bulldogs Football Club. It exists to deliver innovative and engaging community services as well as tailored programs to areas of need throughout their heartland in the west of Victoria and beyond. The foundation has a strong focus on health and wellbeing; youth leadership; diversity and social inclusion; and community advocacy, helping their community reach their full potential by ensuring they are accepted regardless of gender, ability, race or faith.
The Sons of the West program falls under the Health and Wellbeing pillar of the foundation, which aims to empower men and women to lead healthier lives by providing education, physical activity opportunities and a supportive social network. In partnership with different organisations, the Sons and Daughters of the West programs are delivered to over 1300 participants annually.
