G'day Eliot
This month brings Men's Health Week (15-21 June), a chance to shine a light on the importance of regular check-ups and early detection. A quick check can save a lot of trouble down the track. You wouldn’t skip your car service, don’t skip yours. Let's encourage mates to go to their GP.
We're also calling for Sheds to volunteer to host FREE Mental Health First Aid Training. If you can help with either 1 or 2-day workshops, please email Fiona (fiona@mensshedswa.org.au). It includes catering!
Also in this newsletter, a reminder about our next Wellbeing & Health Officer catch up - on becoming a 'Dementia Friendly' Shed. Open to all Shedders not just WHOs.
|
|
Be sure to share this newsletter with your fellow Shedders.
We'd love to hear what is happening in your Shed. Send your stories and photos to fiona@mensshedswa.org.au.
Until next time, take good care of yourself and those around you.
Bec Talbot and Fiona Peters,
Your Wellbeing Support Team
|
|
|
|
Men's health week - check in, check up
|
|
|
A quick check can save a lot of trouble down the track. This month let’s encourage mates to book that GP visit they've been putting off, focusing on the importance of regular check-ups and early detection. You wouldn’t skip your car service, don’t skip yours.
Men's health week is from 15 - 21 June. Print your poster for the noticeboard here.
|
|
|
|
Wellbeing and Health Officer online catch up
|
|
A reminder that the next WHO catch up is on Tuesday 28 July. The theme is:
Becoming a Dementia Friendly Shed.
Chances are someone in your Shed has been touched by dementia - a mate, a family member, or yourself. With a few simple changes, your Shed can stay a safe, welcoming place where people remain connected, active and doing what they enjoy. We’ll also have a guest joining us from Dementia Australia.
No WHO? No worries, this is open to all Shedders interested in the topic.
Register here.
|
|
|
The University of the Third Age is all about staying curious, connected, and active after retirement. Across WA, U3A groups run everything from history and arts to walking, tech and languages. A simple way to keep the mind active and meet like-minded people in your local area. Margaret River Men's Shed recently hosted a Gardening session.
Find your nearest WA U3A group here.
|
|
|
|
Taskforce for Zero Deaths
|
|
The Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia has set up a new national taskforce, chaired by survivor and former Deputy PM Wayne Swan, to push for zero deaths from prostate cancer by bringing together leaders, policymakers and blokes with lived experience to get things moving.
You can help. Fill in a quick five-question survey about early detection. Around one million Aussie men could be at higher risk because of family history - help by sharing this link.
|
|
|
|
Access health new website
|
|
Not sure where to turn when you’re unwell? This new WA service helps point you in the right direction - whether that’s your GP, a pharmacist, a bulk-billing Medicare Urgent Care Clinic, or free 24/7 advice through 1800 MEDICARE (1800 633 422).
If you’re unsure, you can use the symptom checker or just call for guidance.
For some conditions, you may also be able to access the WA Virtual Emergency Department – getting urgent care from home via secure video, without needing to go into hospital.
Find out more here
|
|
|
|
Enjoy a relaxed morning of movement, connection and conversation at the Blokes & Bridges Walk along the Swan River.
Featuring a special address from Greg Hire, former professional basketballer and mental health advocate, sharing insights on wellbeing, resilience and mateship.
Saturday 13 June 2026
8:30am – 11:30am
(3km & 7km loop) includes morning tea and door prize, organised by Alike WA.
Register here.
|
|
|
|
Connecting for Better Health
|
|
|
Elder abuse? Support is available
|
|
|
Sometimes a bloke at the Shed might mention problems at home with extended family - pressure about money, feeling controlled, or not being treated with respect. A simple check-in or listening ear can make a real difference. If something doesn’t seem right, encourage them to talk to someone they trust or contact a support service.
For support or advice, call the WA Elder Abuse Helpline on 1300 724 679 or visit Elder Abuse Action Australia
|
|
|
|
FREE mental health training
Expressions of interest for Sheds to host too
|
|
|
Holyoake are running free courses in the next few months across the Wheatbelt, Mid West, Goldfields, Great Southern and SW. These practical sessions are designed to build confidence, boost mental health know-how, and give you skills you can actually use:
- Mental Health First Aid (2 days)
- Accidental Counsellor (1 day)
- AgriBalance+ (1 day)
A great chance to pick up useful skills and look out for your own and mates wellbeing. Visit the Holyoake website here to book the community courses.
Metro & regional Sheds - like to run this free in your Shed? Email Fiona (fiona@mensshedswa.org.au) to find out how you can.
|
|
|
|
Get behind Bowel Cancer awareness
|
|
Almost 99% of bowel cancer cases can be successfully treated when detected early.
June is bowel cancer awareness month. Ways to show your support:
* Wear a Bowel Cancer Awareness Ribbon to start a conversation.
* Sell a display box of 30 ribbons to friends and colleagues.
A quick chat around smoko can help start an important conversation.
|
|
|
|
Cycling Without Age is a great example of community connection in action. Started in Copenhagen in 2012, this not-for-profit now operates in 42 countries, giving older people and those with disabilities the chance to enjoy free rides on specially built trishaw bikes, piloted by volunteers. It’s all about fresh air, good chats, staying connected and “feeling the wind in your hair”.
Operating in Albany, Mandurah, Perth, Plantaganet, Rockingham & coming soon to Busselton & Dunsborough. Link here for more info and to book a ride.
|
|
|
Have you had great guest speakers at your Shed?
Pass on their contact details to fiona@mensshedswa.org.au so that other Sheds can benefit too. Here are a couple from the Wellbeing & Health Hub.
|
|
|
Retired Police Officer and Author Luke McCulloch will share his story as a Search and Rescue Police Diver, the sacrifices it takes and the toll on mental health. In his book he has captured the human side of policing, an emotional ride. It’s a heartfelt exploration of resilience, camaraderie, and the often-unseen toll of serving on the front lines.
To book Luke, call 0421971767
|
|
|
|
More than 80% of strokes can be prevented. Find out how you can prevent stroke for yourself or the people you love. This presentation covers:
• What stroke is and how to recognise the signs of stroke.
• What to do if someone is having a stroke.
To request a speaker, visit the Stroke Foundation StrokeSafe Speakers web page
|
|
|
|
Understanding behaviour changes
|
|
|
We all go through times when stress, pain, grief or health issues can affect the way we react. People may become quieter, frustrated, anxious or withdrawn when they’re struggling with change or uncertainty.
For people living with dementia, behaviour changes can also be a way of communicating that something doesn’t feel right. Find out more here.
In the Shed, a bit of patience, a calm approach and a good yarn can make a real difference. Often people just need to feel heard, respected and included.
|
|
|
|
|
