Maitland community day to spotlight men’s health, jobs and local support

newy.com.au – Maitland Community Connection Day will return to Maitland Town Hall on Wednesday 19 November for International Men’s Day, bringing together local organisations, support services and community groups from 9.30am to 2pm.

The free event aims to make it easier for men in Maitland and their families to find help close to home, encouraging open conversations around mental health, employment and wellbeing while showcasing the range of support available locally.

Hosted by Joblink Plus in partnership with Maitland City Council, the community day will feature more than 60 stallholders alongside industry demonstrations, live entertainment, free haircuts, hot and cold drinks and a free barbecue. Community displays are planned from Taskforce Veteran, NSW State Emergency Service and Maitland Steam and Antique Machinery Association.

Mayor Philip Penfold said the gathering was about connecting residents with practical support before they reached crisis point. “This is a valuable opportunity for the Maitland community to learn what services are nearby and available to them should they, or someone they know, ever find themselves struggling,” Cr Penfold said. “The more we talk openly about men’s health and wellbeing, the greater the likelihood that those in need will gain the confidence to take the first step.”

Joblink Plus’s Chief Executive Officer Emily Roy said bringing organisations together in one place was designed to make it easier for people to ask questions and seek help. “We’re excited to team up with Maitland City Council for the Maitland Community Connection Day. This event is all about bringing local support services together to showcase what they offer and spark important conversations around men’s mental health and wellbeing,” Ms Roy said.

Guest speakers will include Maitland Rugby Club president Pat Howard as emcee, a presentation from Joblink Plus executive chair Jye Segboer, and a panel discussion featuring Cr Penfold, Joblink Plus executive leader of trauma informed practice Tony Madden and Talk2mebro’s director of Pacifika initiatives Leota Fred Purcell. Organisers say the line-up is designed to highlight lived experience, local leadership and practical pathways to support.

The day will also double as a celebration of the Mates and Mentors program, which Joblink Plus has delivered in partnership with Council. The initiative links local business leaders with young men who have experienced extended periods of unemployment, with mentors helping participants prepare for their return to the workforce.

Ms Roy said the program reflected Joblink Plus’s focus on long-term employment outcomes. “The event is also a chance to celebrate the incredible efforts of participants and local business leaders in the Mates and Mentors program, which wraps up on the day. At Joblink Plus, helping people find meaningful work is at the heart of what we do, and we’re grateful to partner with so many like-minded organisations to make it happen,” she said.

Penfold said Council staff and councillors had taken an active role in mentoring. “We’re proud to have had several of Council’s executive staff and councillors participate in the program over the past two years, mentoring participants to achieve their potential in their emerging careers,” he said. “We’re looking forward to celebrating the achievements of this year’s Mates and Mentors graduates at Maitland Community Connection Day.”

Visitors will also be able to stop by Council’s engagement stall to contribute ideas for Maitland’s first Social Strategy, which will focus on improving social wellbeing and strengthening emergency preparedness across the community.

More information about Maitland Community Connection Day and the Mates and Mentors program is available at mait.city/InternationalMensDay