Interrelate Annual Report 2015-16 | Page 38

2015 NATIONAL MEN’S HEALTH GATHERING In October, the Australian Men’s Health Forum, in conjunction with a consortium of leading agencies including Interrelate, hosted the 2015 National Men’s Health Gathering in Terrigal, on the Central Coast. Matt Stubbs, Head of Research and Service Development and Stuart McMinn, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Liaison Worker, were on the conference organising committee and worked tirelessly to make sure that the conference was a success. The National Men’s Health Gathering incorporated the 8th Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Men’s Health Conference and the 11th Australian Men’s Health Conference. Under the theme ‘Sharing the Wisdom’ the gathering brought together practitioners, researchers, workers and traditional elders to share both new and traditional knowledge of what works in engaging and assisting men and boys. The 165 delegates who attended the gathering participated in a range of activities, workshops and challenging discussions to broaden their understanding of working with men and boys to increase their health and wellbeing. The 8th Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Men’s Conference was also an opportunity to showcase the strength of traditional and contemporary Aboriginal knowledge and culture that is alive and prominent in Darkinjung country (the Central Coast). A Corroboree was held on Terrigal beach, which saw 60 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander dancers from across NSW share traditional stories and dance. Over 400 people attended the event, which was sponsored by Gosford City Council. 36