When now Mernda local Anthony Brancatisano moved to the area three years ago, he had two goals; meet new people and explore the area.
Upon searching the web and community forums, he couldn’t find any programs suitable for what he had in mind, so he took matters into his own hands.
The Mernda Menergise walk and talk group walks weekly, every Thursday from 7pm, and Mr Brancatisano, who is also on the committee for Mens Wellbeing Australia, says it’s the perfect opportunity for men to shoot the breeze in the breeze.
While the hour-long walk does wonders for physical health, he said its benefits go far beyond that.
“It’s just that get together, outside of the normal sporting or pub aspect, hence why we hold it on a Thursday night,” he laughed.
“I wanted to create that sense of community, and connection among men.
“For the mental side it’s really great… you’re working all day, it’s hustle and bustle… we have a lot of family guys, single guys, and guys going through a lot of stuff, and we find that they all open up and have a chat, it’s really positive.”
He said the group is built on sovereignty and confidentiality, which has built a mutual respect that fosters a safe and comfortable environment for all men who attend.
The group meets at the Mernda Neighbourhood House to begin the walk, and with the colder, wetter months approaching, some nights will instead be spent within the comfort of the centre, still giving the group a space to chat when the weather doesn’t permit.
The group typically has anywhere from five to 15 walkers currently, with ages ranging from early 20s to their oldest walker who is 82.
