Men across the North Coast are being encouraged to connect, share and support one another through Men’s Table community groups, now part of a broader suite of suicide prevention initiatives funded across the region.
These groups provide a safe, welcoming space for men to meet regularly over dinner, share the highs and lows of life, and build trusted friendships over time.
Commissioned by Healthy North Coast through the Australian Government’s Primary Health Network program, Men’s Table groups are delivered as part of local Targeted Regional Initiatives for Suicide Prevention (TRISP).
Healthy North Coast CEO Monika Wheeler said initiatives like Men’s Table play a vital role in reducing suicide in the community and the stigma that is sometimes associated with seeking support:
“On the North Coast, the rates of suicide are above the NSW and Australian averages, especially among men. Suicide prevention is everyone’s business, and programs like Men’s Table help create spaces where people feel supported and more comfortable reaching out for help.
“Through the TRISP program, we’re investing in practical, evidence-based initiatives that build local capability and strengthen the safety net around people at risk.”
Al Stratton, Regional Men’s Table host, said:
“Creating opportunities for men to come together, talk openly and support each other can have a powerful impact. These groups help foster a sense of belonging and make it easier for people to seek help early.
“These Tables are about giving everyday blokes the skills to recognise when someone might be struggling and the confidence to start a conversation that could save a life.”
Local men are encouraged to register for upcoming Men’s Table ‘Entrée’ sessions in Port Macquarie on Tuesday 28 April 2026 or Grafton on Wednesday 27 May 2026 at themenstable.org/get-involved.
About Targeted Regional Initiatives for Suicide Prevention (TRISP) on the North Coast
The TRISP program funds regional initiatives for suicide prevention throughout Australia. This Australian Government funding between 2022–2026 provides Primary Health Networks (PHNs) with resources for tailored, community-led suicide prevention initiatives. Activities delivered under this program are focused on early intervention, mental health support, and stigma reduction.
Based on the unique needs of the North Coast region (Mid North Coast and Northern NSW), five suicide prevention programs have been funded between 2024–2026 at a total value of $1.15 million:
- Free workshops delivered by Lifeline Direct to equip participants with practical skills to recognise the signs of mental health challenges, respond effectively, support someone in crisis and connect them with appropriate help. 77 free training opportunities have been delivered throughout 2025 and 2026, with 1008 attendees to date.
- School-based programs delivered by Batyr to build mental health and resilience in young people.
- Men’s Table community groups, where men meet over dinner to share the highs and lows of life, build trusted friendships, and support one another over time.
- Wellways Men’s Wellbeing Matters, supporting early engagement, direct support and referral pathways for men.
- SANE will lead delivery of digital integrated and moderated support to help individuals manage the next steps after a crisis and help with navigation of support systems.
If you require immediate 24/7 help, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, Beyond Blue on 1300 22 46 36 or Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Crisis Supporters on 13YARN (13 9276). In an emergency, call 000 or go to your nearest hospital emergency department. For a full list of crisis and support numbers, visit hnc.org.au/crisis-and-support-numbers.
