AS part of Men’s Health Month this month, a growing initiative is helping Redlands and Bayside men take charge of their physical, mental and social wellbeing – one walk at a time.
The Men’s Walk & Talk Redlands group meets every Sunday at 8am, offering a relaxed walk, free coffee and good conversation in a pressure-free environment.
Open to men and boys of all ages, the group aims to strengthen community connection and promote small, positive steps towards better health.
Organisers say the focus is on making time for mateship and mental health, in addition to encouraging physical activity.
Group organiser Shon Bailey said the simplicity of the walks was part of what made them so effective.
“There’s no pressure, no agenda – just a weekly chance to connect, support each other, and take a small step towards better health,” he said. “Some guys come along because they’re new to the area, others just want a bit of time out or to chat with someone who gets it.”
Shon said he had been part of similar initiatives in other parts of the country and saw first-hand how powerful the concept could become with community backing.
“I personally am newer to the area and had previously attended similar groups in other areas where they regularly get 40 to 50 blokes every week,” he said.
“And while we’re still a growing group, it would be amazing to build something similar here in the Redlands.”
The weekly walks alternate between Cleveland and Mt Cotton and continue rain or shine, with wet-weather alternative venues planned.
This weekend’s walk on June 22 will take place at Mt Cotton, opposite Billy’s BBQ under the IGA sign.
In wet weather, the group will gather at the nearby Sourdough Bakery.
The following week’s walk on June 29 will be held at Raby Bay Harbour Park in Cleveland, near the public jetty and local cafes.
If it rains, the group will meet instead at Crusoe Café.
The Redlands walks are part of a growing network of Men’s Walk & Talk sessions across South East Queensland.
Other weekly gatherings include a Sunday 7am walk starting from Minnippi Park Run at Meadowlands Rd, Carindale, and a Thursday 5.30pm meet-up outside the Manly Boathouse.
Men’s Health Month is a globally recognised period dedicated to raising awareness about men’s health and wellbeing, typically celebrated in June.
It’s a time to encourage men to take proactive steps towards their health and to address specific challenges, including mental health and lifestyle-related conditions.
