Brave Brothers is a grassroots, Bundaberg-based charity dedicated to preventing suicide, supporting men’s mental health, and raising awareness around family and domestic violence. This presentation, Brave Brothers – Grassroots at Work, explores how a local initiative has rapidly grown into a trusted, community-driven movement saving lives and transforming male well-being through connection, purpose, and proactive support.
With a deep commitment to community engagement, Brave Brothers operates mobile outreach events, walk-and-talk groups, coffee trailer meetups, and men's mental health awareness rides. These practical, on-the-ground efforts meet men where they are – in parks, job sites, schools, and sporting events – breaking down stigma and opening conversations that can literally save lives.
This presentation outlines the impact of these activities, such as fostering positive masculinity, reducing isolation, and encouraging help-seeking behaviour in regional Queensland. It highlights how partnerships with local businesses, schools, first responders, and other not-for-profits create a sustainable support network that strengthens the wider community. Initiatives like the “Stags” motorcycle rides, Brave men's walk and talk exemplify how Brave Brothers delivers low-barrier, high-impact services that resonate deeply with local men.
Through storytelling, lived experience, and grassroots action, Brave Brothers demonstrates how a community-led response can address complex mental health issues with compassion, consistency, and cultural relevance. The presentation also discusses the importance of volunteerism, private sponsorship, and infrastructure support to ensure continued growth and sustainability.
Brave Brothers – Grassroots at Work is a call to action: empowering communities to back local, hands-on solutions that rebuild resilience, foster mateship, and ultimately prevent tragedy.