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Brave Conversations: Breaking the Silence for Men's Mental Health

Lifeline Hunter

Key Facts:

AVAILABLE FOR INTERVIEW

Peter Baines OAM, Key Note Speaker

Michael Were, Executive Director Supporter Engagement, Lifeline Direct

International Men’s Day Event – Friday 21 November, 12 PM, Newcastle Yacht Club

This International Men’s Day, Lifeline Hunter invite the community to join them for Brave Conversations, an event dedicated to tackling one of the most pressing issues facing men today: mental health and suicide prevention.

Every day in Australia, we lose nine people to suicide. Men account for three out of four suicides, and for those aged 25–44, suicide remains the leading cause of death. These statistics are more than numbers—they represent fathers, brothers, friends, and colleagues.

Brave Conversations is about showing up for the men in our lives. It’s about asking the tough questions, listening deeply, and reminding each other that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. You don’t have to be an expert; you just have to care enough to ask, listen, and walk alongside someone who’s doing it tough.

“This is our first Brave Conversations event in Newcastle, and it couldn’t come at a more important time. Men’s mental health is a conversation we need to keep alive, not just for today, but for future generations. Every dollar raised will go directly to services that provide lifesaving support, including free, 24/7 crisis lines like 13 11 14. These services rely on community generosity and the dedication of our incredible volunteers to keep going.”  Michael Were, Executive Director, Supporter Engagement.

Lifeline Hunter is honoured to welcome Peter Baines OAM, a globally recognised leadership expert and humanitarian, alongside David Campese AM, Former Australian Rugby Union Player as guest speakers at the event. Peter’s extraordinary career spans two decades as a forensic investigator. Peter was part of the leadership team that responded to Bali after the bombings in 2002 and was called in 2005, to lead international teams in response to the Tsunami. His experience in crisis leadership and his commitment to social impact through his charity, Hands Across the Water, offer powerful lessons in resilience, connection, and purpose.

In 2024, Peter marked the 20th anniversary of the 2004 tsunami by running 1,400 km in 26 days across Thailand to raise awareness and funds for children in need. His story is one of courage, compassion, and action, the very qualities we need to foster in conversations about men’s mental health.

"True leadership isn’t about titles, it’s about showing up when it matters most, in times of crisis and uncertainty", says Mr Baines

Event Details

• Date: Friday, 21 November 2025
• Time: 12:00 PM
• Location: Newcastle Yacht Club
• Tickets: lifelinehunterbrave.raiselysite.com

Join us for an inspiring afternoon, as we shine a light on the importance of real, honest conversations and create a world where men and boys feel safe to talk about the tough things in life.

If you, or someone you know are feeling overwhelmed, we encourage you to connect with Lifeline in the way you feel most comfortable.

You can phone Lifeline to speak to a Crisis Supporter on 13 11 14, text 0477 131 114, or chat to Lifeline online (all services are available 24/7). If you’re struggling to know where to turn, Lifeline’s Support Toolkit at lifeline.org.au/toolkit can help you find the right support at the right time.

For Indigenous or Torres Strait Islander peoples: If you, or someone you know, are feeling worried or no good, you can connect with 13YARN on 13 92 76 (24 hours/7 days) and talk with an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Crisis Supporter.

About us:

ABOUT LIFELINE

For over 60 years, Lifeline Hunter has been training and supporting volunteers to connect with Australians, offering free and confidential one-to-one crisis support for people who are feeling overwhelmed or having difficulty coping. Trained crisis supporters listen without judgement 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

As well as 13 11 14 telephone line, nationally, Lifeline also delivers 24/7 crisis text, webchat and a Support Toolkit. Lifeline expects to respond to over 1.4 million requests for support this year, creating an average of 120 safety plans a day to keep a person experiencing suicidal ideation safe.

Contact details:

Emma Askew, Head of Marketing and Communications
P: 0422 912 742   E: [email protected]