Port Macquarie men’s group celebrates major milestone

JOHN Crisp is not ashamed of his past and will openly talk about his experiences with homelessness, mental health challenges and addiction.

With 33 years of sobriety under his belt, he is an advocate for all aspects of men’s health, and as a peer support worker the Port Macquarie resident spends many hours a week helping men support other men.

Whilst living in Coffs Harbour in 2015 John started his first men’s social support group.

At the suggestion of his wife Kim, John called it Blah Blah Blah Coffee for Blokes.

Five years ago, he initiated it in Port Macquarie, and when some members found travelling difficult, he started up a group in Wauchope.

Member Dave Mollard told News Of The Area, “I moved up here from Sydney after I retired.

“My health wasn’t great, I had no friends here and I was depressed.

“Thanks to this group I got my confidence back.

“We have a lot of banter, but it is a golden rule that we can’t discuss football.”

On a Tuesday morning, they meet outside Breakwall HQ where owner Bec Howard is delighted to see the group expanding.

Originally the meetings were held in a council provided room, but members felt if they were going to be inside, they may as well stay at home.

Men are encouraged to talk through any physical or mental health concerns they may have, with participants often being referred to their GP or other community outreach programs.

On Saturday mornings the group goes for a walk, with each meeting attracting fifteen to twenty men.

Three times a year they hold a fundraising BBQ with all funds going to local projects selected by the members.

This week as he marks 10 years since his first meeting, John told News Of The Area, “we are all about men’s health and wellbeing, and we see tangible benefits from this.”

For more information contact John Crisp on 0467390813.

By Rachael THORPE