Men’s Voices in the South Burnett: Strength Through Connection

In the South Burnett, strength means showing up, speaking out, and supporting each other. Here’s how our local men are shaping a healthier, more connected community.

The South Burnett region has always been a place where practical people get things done. From the peanut farms of Kingaroy to the rich cultural heritage of Cherbourg, from the slopes of the Bunya Mountains to the sheds across our towns, this is country that shapes strong men who value family, community, and looking out for each other.

But sometimes the strongest thing a man can do is reach out. Being vulnerable takes courage — and in our communities, courage is something we understand deeply.

Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the Wakka Wakka people, along with the Jarowair and Barunggam peoples, as the Traditional Custodians of the lands across the South Burnett region. We pay our respects to Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all First Nations peoples. We recognise their enduring connection to Country, culture, and community — a connection that continues to shape the wellbeing, strength, and resilience of men in this region.

Our Shared Story

Whether your family has worked this land for generations, whether you’re Wakka Wakka, Jarowair, Barunggam, or moved here last year, we all share the experience of calling the South Burnett home. We know the value of hard work, the importance of a good neighbour, and the pride of building something that lasts.

Every man faces challenges — droughts, job changes, family pressures, health concerns, or the quiet weight of carrying it all. These struggles don’t respect borders, and neither should our support for one another.

The Strength in Speaking Up

In sheds, on job sites, and at the footy, the most important conversations often start with, “How’re you going?” The strongest men in our community are often those who understand that asking for help isn’t weakness — it’s wisdom. Talking about problems doesn’t make them worse; it makes them manageable.

For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men, the concept of wellbeing often extends beyond individual mental health, encompassing **social and emotional wellbeing (SEWB)**, which includes spiritual, cultural, and community connections. This holistic view is a source of immense strength and resilience, though it also means that historical and ongoing challenges, like intergenerational trauma and systemic racism, can deeply impact wellbeing.

Whether guided by traditional wisdom or modern tools, the message is clear: no one does it alone. Just as we help with fences or harvests, we can lend a hand when someone’s dealing with something heavier.

“Supporting each other is what makes this community special. Whether it’s helping a mate through a tough patch on the farm or just having a yarn at the local, it’s about showing up for one another,” says Alan Eagleson, Murgon Show Society president and 2024 South Burnett Citizen of the Year.

What Makes the Difference

• They show up. Whether for the kids’ sport or to help a neighbour in need, presence matters. Our region is stronger when our men are engaged.
• They listen before fixing. A genuine “How are you going, really?” can mean the world — especially when followed by silence and listening.
• **They value all voices, histories, and wisdom.** Indigenous Elders, cultural leaders, farmers, tradies, retirees — everyone has something to teach. Respect builds strength.
• **They lead by example.** Healthy habits, respectful relationships, stress management — our actions matter more than our advice.
• **They embrace cultural connection.** For many, especially Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men, a strong connection to Country, culture, and community is a powerful protective factor for wellbeing.

“You don’t have to do it all on your own. There’s always someone willing to lend a hand, whether it’s on the footy field or in the community garden,” says Stephen Copas, Wooroolin Auxiliary Fire Brigade Lieutenant and long-time community volunteer.

Getting Involved

• Share what you know. Trade skills, life lessons, or cultural knowledge — others benefit when you pass it on.
• Join in. From Men’s Sheds to sports clubs, there’s power in shared purpose and teamwork. Look for opportunities to engage with Indigenous community events and organisations to foster deeper connections.
• Support local efforts. Youth programs, cultural events, and local services all grow stronger with community input. This includes supporting Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs) like CRAICCHS in Cherbourg, who provide culturally safe health and wellbeing services.
• Be someone others can talk to. You don’t need all the answers — just being approachable can be a lifeline. Be open to learning from diverse experiences, including those of Indigenous men.

“I’ve found that just being there and listening can make all the difference. Sometimes a cuppa and a chat is all it takes to help someone through,” says Ross Wessling, Murgon Rotarian and 2025 South Burnett Citizen of the Year.

Local Support Contacts

Organisation	Service Description	Contact Details
Cherbourg Regional Aboriginal & Islander Community Controlled Health Service (CRAICCHS)	Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation providing holistic health, social, and emotional wellbeing services, including for men.	(07) 4169 8600 Barambah Avenue, Cherbourg QLD 4605
Graham House Community Centre	Men’s behaviour change and support programs	(07) 4169 8400 Murgon QLD 4605
South Burnett Care	Social groups, respite, NDIS support, and more	(07) 4162 7300 Kingaroy QLD
South Burnett Regional Council	Community events, volunteering, local initiatives	(07) 4189 9100
Local Men’s Sheds	Friendship, mentoring, and mental health support	Find your nearest shed via the Council website
Lifeline	24/7 crisis support and counselling	13 11 14
Beyond Blue	Mental health support and resources	1300 22 4636

Moving Forward Together

South Burnett’s strength comes from people who look out for one another and build together. That’s as true in mental health as it is in any harvest or construction.

Every man — regardless of age, background, or story — deserves support and has something to offer. By blending traditional wisdom with modern tools and simple, consistent action, we can keep growing a community where all men thrive.

The journey starts with us. Let’s listen more, speak honestly, and keep showing up for each other — because together, we’re stronger.