It might be difficult to make new mates in a new town but one group of dads is making it easier for people to connect.
With “a couple of beers and a few laughs”, ‘Dads Club’ aims to facilitate better connectedness for regional men and promote male mental health awareness, says vice-president and co-founder Luke Spielvogel.
“It’s a chance for commuters, stay-at-home dads, or others who don’t get the social opportunity as often, to meet some people,” he said.
“We want to make it accessible and approachable to those new to the area, feeling a bit isolated or just lack the time or inclination to join a ‘for-purpose’ group or committee.”
While the name suggests it’s all about dads and blokes – it is a mere nod to the group’s roots and everyone is welcome, says president and Newham resident Mark Constable.
“The Macedon Ranges has seen massive growth in particularly young families moving to the area and that move away from friends and family can sometimes prove isolating,” Mr Constable said.
“Having been one of those families I know what that isolation can feel like, between driving up and down the Calder every day, looking after a property and spending time with young kids, it’s hard to find time to get out and make new friends. That’s where Dads Club was great, we were all in the same boat and I’ve made some lasting friendships.”
Andrew Watt works in construction in Melbourne and moved to the Macedon Ranges two years ago.
“It was great, within a couple of weeks of moving up here, I was invited to a Dads Club function and met 25-30 local blokes who were really welcoming. I’m now involved with the local hall committee and the cricket club as well as now joining the Dads Club committee.”
Mr Constable was pleased with the group’s most recent event that celebrated club becoming incorporated and attracted about 25 people to the gathering in Newham.
The group now looks forward to the next chapter with a strong committee on board and growing interest in the community.
