A CHARITY that inspires community and connection for men struggling with their mental health is making its way to Ballarat.<\/p>\n
On Sunday, 2 May, the city will host its inaugural Mr Perfect barbecue, with plans to hold monthly meetings throughout the year.<\/p>\n
Mr Perfect is a grassroots, pre-crisis organisation that provides once-a-month \u201cbarbie\u2019s\u201d across the country, where men can grab a bite to eat, enjoy the sun and each other\u2019s company.<\/p>\n
Founder Terry Cornick said he is ecstatic that Ballarat now facilitates the catchups.<\/p>\n
\u201cBallarat has been on our target list for a barbecue site for a long, long time,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cAs we have grown we noted Ballarat was desperately in need of more social support for men so they have a soft-entry to mental health support and a place to be themselves\u201d.<\/p>\n
Mr Perfect was founded in 2016, and now provides mental health meetups in around 40 locations across the country.<\/p>\n
The organisation also provides online support, information, and resources for the betterment of men\u2019s mental health.<\/p>\n
Ballarat barbeque host Justin Thompson said the event\u2019s aim to stress the importance of wellbeing amongst men.<\/p>\n
\u201cMen\u2019s mental health is something that has been underappreciated in some instances, so we are really trying to put it back on the map,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis is a really nice, inviting and informal way to begin these important conversations, and help steer people towards other mental health avenues.\u201d<\/p>\n
The barbecue will take place at the Lake Wendouree Adventure Playground on Sunday, 2 May at 10.30am. Mr Thompson urged attendees to look out for the Mr Perfect banners and signage around the barbeque area.<\/p>\n