The West Australian Men’s Gathering provides an opportunity for men to meet together in an environment that encourages honesty, trust, and the true expression of feelings.
What happens at a Gathering?
The Gathering offers you an opportunity to explore what it means to be a man in the company of other men in search of deeper clarity. This is done through a number of activities and facilitated sessions that stimulate and encourage men to explore their current wellbeing, may this be physical or psychological. The WA Men’s Gathering uses structured ways and protocols to ensure safety and confidentiality. The Gathering offers a range of self management opportunities that men can learn about and engage in, which are generated by the shared experience and stories of the men attending. There is also plenty of time to connect, share a meal or a cuppa and laugh or go for a walk.What happens after a Gathering?
Following the Gathering men are provided with contact details of men’s groups in the community and sometimes set up their own men’s groups in their local area. The Gathering and other community groups such as Men’s Work Project offers support and some funds to get groups started. The Gathering also provides information on other men’s services. The Gathering mailing list sends out pertinent information for men for their interest on available workshops and other events in WA for men.
Is men’s work only about “serious stuff”?
Not at all. Many men come along to our Gatherings simply to relax, network with other men and enjoy a light-hearted “men‘s space” of camaraderie and like minds. Men can either attend workshops they feel drawn to, or not. The Gathering is a space of supported growth for going deeper into life’s issues, in a place of respect and without pressure.
Will I have fun?
Absolutely! Rollicking belly laughs are part and parcel of the our men’s gathering experience. We all have been boys once and having fun is part of our birthright!
Is this for All men?
The Gathering is open to all male/masculine identifying people. We are an open minded community, aiming to create a safe space for men and men’s issues.
Is the WA Gathering related to any church or other group?
The WA Men’s Gathering has no religious affiliation or bias. All men are welcome regardless of religious belief, nationality, sexual orientation, gender or identity. Our core values are honesty, respect and authenticity. There is no getting it right or wrong in our programs.
What can I get out of a Gathering?
The importance of men coming together in community is a central pillar of the success of the WA Gathering. Through our ground-rules, we create a community space that is inherently healing in its nature.
“Paradoxically, a group of humans becomes healing and converting only after its members have learned to stop trying to heal and convert. Community is a safe place precisely because no one is attempting to heal or convert you, to fix you, to change you. Instead, the members accept you as you are. You are free to be you. And being so free, you are free to discard defences, masks, disguises; free to seek your own psychological and spiritual health; free to become your whole and holy self.”
How is the Gathering funded?
The Gathering is is a not-for-profit Association, run by a volunteer committee with costs are kept to a minimum. Presenters at Gatherings are mostly volunteers and pay to attend. The price of attending the Gathering is cost price and subsidy for attendees can be provided thanks to the kind sponsorship of Lotterywest.
Can I volunteer?
The majority of work for volunteers is on Friday before the event opens as we are setting up the venue for over 100 men! There are further tasks throughout the weekend but these would take less than 2 hours out of your day. Volunteers can apply for a reduced-price ticket by calling the Registrar. Places are limited, so apply early!
Will anyone try and “fix” me?
You do not need fixing. You are the captain of your ship and it is you who will navigate your own course. We are here to encourage and support whatever your choices are. Our programs offer you opportunities to learn new skills and enjoy experiences that can change the way you look at your life and relationships.
Will I be judged?
The inner judge is the worst kind! This is the judge you will have your biggest wrestle with. The Gathering understands the need for honesty and respect and these values are woven through everything we do. Our programs are not a test you must pass, they are an opportunity to look at yourself and your life, as you choose to, and make your own decisions about what your next step is.
Can I get financial assistance?
An annual Grant from Lotterywest enables us to reserve a small number of discounted tickets for men in financial need. To apply, please email our registrar at wamensgathering@gmail.com.
Is anybody going to try and make me do stuff that feels uncomfortable?
Our programs are tried and tested. You will be supported and you will not be judged. Our goal is to provide the place where you can challenge yourself to be your best without any pressure to do anything you don’t want to do.
The Committee
The WA Men’s Gathering is organised by a dedicated volunteer group of men who meet year around to discuss and plan the next Gathering. The group is itself a tribe, one that shares information, ideas, challenges, contacts and inspiration in the spirit of mateship and support. The closer we come to a Gathering, the more we mobilise and the more the tribe grows.
In the true spirit of a compassionate and connected community we work together to create an event that supports the social and emotional wellbeing of men so they can lead more fulfilled lives