A growing national movement focused on men’s wellbeing and connection is coming to Grafton this month, with locals invited to attend a free introductory “Entree” night hosted by The Men’s Table.
The not-for-profit charity, which now has more than 300 Men’s Tables across Australia, creates safe, non-judgemental spaces where small groups of men meet monthly to share a meal and openly discuss the highs and lows of life.
Western NSW Regional Host Alasdair Stratton said his own experience with The Men’s Table began during one of the most difficult periods of his life.
“I joined a Men’s Table in November 2021 and have loved being part of one for nearly five years,” he said.
“At the time, I was emotionally drained from a family breakdown, losing a job of 18 years, and a cancer scare. I realised I didn’t have a group of male friends I could talk to in a meaningful way.”
Mr Stratton said he was initially hesitant to attend an Entree night in his own community, but quickly discovered the power of simply being heard.
“What I enjoyed most was being allowed to speak without anyone interrupting or offering unsolicited advice,” he said.
“At the Table, they just listened, which was incredibly powerful.”
He said the organisation’s “Fundamentals” – a set of conversation guidelines developed by the first Men’s Table – helped create a safe environment where men could open up honestly without fear of judgement.
“These ensure the environment remains safe and free of judgment, allowing men to tap into their feelings and verbalize emotions without the fear of being perceived as ‘weak’ or ‘weird’,” he said.
Mr Stratton believes the peer-to-peer model has resonated strongly with Australian men because many still feel uncomfortable seeking traditional mental health support.
“Statistically, 60% of men in Australia are unlikely to seek help from a mental health professional when they need it, as there is still a significant stigma around clinical help,” he said.
“For many men, it feels more comfortable to talk to their mates than to a psychologist.”
The Men’s Table has expanded rapidly nationwide, something Mr Stratton attributes to its accessibility and strong support structure.
“It is free and easy. There is no membership fee – just the cost of your meal – and it only requires two hours once a month,” he said.
“The ‘Fundamentals’ ensure that every table remains a safe, non-judgmental space for men to share from the heart.”
Men interested in learning more are invited to attend the Grafton Entree night on Wednesday, 27 May at Roches Family Hotel from 6.30pm for a 7pm start.
Mr Stratton said there was no pressure for attendees to speak or commit to joining a regular table.
“The Entree is a ‘taster’ experience; there is no requirement to speak, and men are welcome to just listen,” he said.
“To anyone unsure, I’d say that while trying something new is nerve-wracking, that discomfort often leads to growth. You won’t find judgment, ridicule, or bullying here. Instead, you will find a group where you are listened to, respected, and cared for.”
He said the impact of participation could be life-changing.
“Knowing you have 10-12 men you can trust – and who trust you in return – is life-changing,” he said.
“Having a space where you can truly be yourself without being judged or ‘fixed’ completely changes how you feel about yourself and your place in the community.”
Registration for the Grafton Entree night is via Humanitix.
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