BBQ for men’s mental health

A CHARITY that inspires community and connection for men struggling with their mental health is making its way to Ballarat.

On Sunday, 2 May, the city will host its inaugural Mr Perfect barbecue, with plans to hold monthly meetings throughout the year.

Mr Perfect is a grassroots, pre-crisis organisation that provides once-a-month “barbie’s” across the country, where men can grab a bite to eat, enjoy the sun and each other’s company.

Founder Terry Cornick said he is ecstatic that Ballarat now facilitates the catchups.

“Ballarat has been on our target list for a barbecue site for a long, long time,” he said.

“As 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”.

Mr Perfect was founded in 2016, and now provides mental health meetups in around 40 locations across the country.

The organisation also provides online support, information, and resources for the betterment of men’s mental health.

Ballarat barbeque host Justin Thompson said the event’s aim to stress the importance of wellbeing amongst men.

“Men’s mental health is something that has been underappreciated in some instances, so we are really trying to put it back on the map,” he said.

“This is a really nice, inviting and informal way to begin these important conversations, and help steer people towards other mental health avenues.”

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.

For more information, contact Justin Thompson at [email protected] or 0418 392 056, or visit mrperfect.org.au.