Maitland community comes together for International Men’s Day

Maitland Community Connection Day returns to Maitland Town Hall this International Men’s Day from 9.30am to 2pm, bringing together local organisations, support services and community groups to share resources and encourage open conversations about men’s health and wellbeing.

Hosted by Joblink Plus, in partnership with Maitland City Council, the free community event on Wednesday 19 November will feature over 60 stallholders, industry demonstrations, community displays from Taskforce Veteran, NSW State Emergency Service and Maitland Steam and Antique Machinery Association, live entertainment, free haircuts, hot and cold drinks, and a free barbecue.

“This is a valuable opportunity for the Maitland community to learn what services are nearby and available to them should they, or someone they know, ever find themselves struggling,” Mayor Philip Penfold said.

“The more we talk openly about men’s health and wellbeing, the greater the likelihood that those in need will gain the confidence to take the first step.”

“We’re excited to team up with Maitland City Council for the Maitland Community Connection Day. This event is all about bringing local support services together to showcase what they offer and spark important conversations around men’s mental health and wellbeing,” Joblink Plus's Chief Executive Officer Emily Roy said.

Guest speakers include Maitland Rugby Club's President Pat Howard as emcee, a presentation from Joblink Plus's Executive Chair Jye Segboer, and a panel discussion between Mayor Penfold, Joblink Plus’s Executive Leader of Trauma Informed Practice Tony Madden, and Talk2mebro's Director of Pacifika Initiatives Leota Fred Purcell.

Council has also partnered with Joblink Plus to help deliver the Mates and Mentors program, an initiative which connects local business leaders with young men who are experiencing extended periods of unemployment to help prepare them for their return to the workforce.

“The event is also a chance to celebrate the incredible efforts of participants and local business leaders in the Mates and Mentors program, which wraps up on the day. At Joblink Plus, helping people find meaningful work is at the heart of what we do, and we’re grateful to partner with so many likeminded organisations to make it happen,” Ms Roy said.

“We’re proud to have had several of Council’s executive staff and councillors participate in the program over the past two years, mentoring participants to achieve their potential in their emerging careers,” Mayor Penfold said.

“We’re looking forward to celebrating the achievements of this year’s Mates and Mentors graduates at Maitland Community Connection Day.”

Visitors can also visit Council’s engagement stall to help shape Maitland’s first Social Strategy by sharing their ideas for improving social wellbeing and strengthening emergency preparedness.

To find out more about Maitland Community Connection Day and the Mates and Mentors program, visit mait.city/InternationalMensDay.