New and expectant dads across Corangamite Shire are invited to join the Dads Matter Group.
Council is calling on dads of preschool children and babies to share what they think would help dads connect with each other.
Ben, from Skipton, is a dad of three aged 2, 4 and 6. He is one of the first keen members to join the reference group.
"I am interested in the Dads Matter group to create connections with other dads in the local area with similar age children," he said.
"It's a chance to meet and discuss parenting, being a dad, keeping your relationship intact after kids and how to juggle all that life throws at you during the early years of my children's lives.
"It would be good to hear from other dads about their experiences and how they have found ways to overcome challenges and laugh about some of the crazy things that happen when you become a dad."
Council Director Corporate and Community Services Andrew Tenni encouraged dads in the shire to do the survey on Council's website to share their ideas for the project and how it could be shaped.
"Becoming a parent for the first time can be quite daunting. Shared knowledge from other dads can help make the parenthood journey more rewarding.
"The program aims to involve dads in all aspects of their child's health, wellbeing and development.
"The group is about connecting with other dads in a casual and laidback atmosphere.
"Not everyone is from a traditional family. We want to hear from other father figures as well. Grandfather, uncles and others who are helping raise a child."
The survey asks dads how they would like to connect – in person or online- how often, when, and in what towns.
"We are encouraging dads to put their hands up for a small, informal reference group to help shape the project so it meets dads' needs."
Possibilities for the group would include connecting with other dads or sharing parenting skills.
It could include social activities either with or without their children.
"I encourage dads across the shire to fill in the survey on Council's website and register their interest for the group.
"This is a fantastic opportunity to help create a group of dads who celebrate each other's wins and share how they overcame pitfalls."
Take the survey at and register your interest at tinyurl.com/CSC-DadsMatter
