UPDATE: A vital community conversation on men’s health held on October 22, 2025, in the Hawkesbury region has ignited urgent discussions about how local men engage with their General Practitioners (GPs) and address their wellbeing. Hosted by Susan Templeman, MP for Macquarie, and Dan Repacholi, Special Envoy for Men’s Health, the forum drew around 40 participants, including local councillors, health professionals, and advocates, all eager to break the stigma surrounding men’s health.
This event is part of Repacholi’s national outreach initiative aimed at empowering men to voice their health concerns. Attendees shared insights on what works and what needs improvement, highlighting a community keen to enhance trust in healthcare services.
Speakers addressed significant cultural and emotional barriers that prevent many men from seeking timely medical help. Personal stories revealed a troubling trend: men often wait until health issues become critical before visiting their GP. Penrith Councillor Kirstie Boerst poignantly recounted her late husband’s misdiagnosis of pancreatic cancer, emphasizing the need for better training and support for GPs to save lives.
The discussion underscored the GP’s pivotal role as the first point of contact for men’s health. Whether concerning mental health, routine blood pressure checks, or cancer screenings, a visit to the GP can be life-saving. As Repacholi stated, “Men don’t always have a safe space to learn about available local services.” To address this gap, participants proposed creating a local health service directory to guide men toward appropriate resources.
In a significant announcement, Templeman revealed plans to expand men’s health services in the Hawkesbury, focusing on collaboration between primary care providers and community organizations. However, she acknowledged that communication across health services remains inconsistent. “The more we talk about men’s health—whether physical, emotional, or mental—the more we normalize it,” she asserted.
The event also highlighted a generational shift in attitudes towards mental health. Younger men are increasingly open to discussing their struggles, while older generations—often conditioned to embrace stoicism—are learning the importance of seeking help. Local initiatives like Men’s Sheds and veterans’ hubs were praised for fostering connection and accountability among men, proving essential in promoting active and supportive lifestyles.
The evening concluded on a note of solidarity, with attendees sharing a commitment to breaking the silence surrounding men’s health challenges. The atmosphere reflected a shared truth: no man should face health issues alone. By putting men’s health back on the local agenda, the Hawkesbury community demonstrates that meaningful change starts with open conversations and proactive measures.
For those seeking help, resources are available throughout the Hawkesbury area:
– Hawkesbury Medicare Mental Health Centre: 1-2 Musson Lane, Richmond, 1800 595 212
– Men’s Shed: 23 Bosworth St, Richmond, Monday, Wednesday & Friday, 8 AM – 1 PM
– Hawkesbury Men’s Walk and Talk: 114 March St, Richmond, Wednesdays, 6:15 PM – 7:15 PM
– Hawkesbury Community Health Centre: 2 Day St, Windsor, (02) 4587 0714
– Men Walk it Off North Richmond: Wednesdays, 5:30 PM at Butler’s Pantry, Redbank
If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to:
– MensLine Australia: 1300 789 978
– Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636
– Lifeline: 13 11 14
The Hawkesbury community, alongside its federal representatives, is taking a bold step forward to ensure that men’s health is prioritized and openly discussed. Stay tuned for further developments as this important conversation continues to unfold.
