The life-changing men's health program Sons of the West is back for 2023 and places are still available in Laverton and Newport.
More than just an exercise program, the free 10-week program is an all-round program to improve men's mental and physical health and wellbeing.
It is open to men who live, work or play in Hobsons Bay and includes a series of workshops, presentations and healthy activities.
The Newport group meets every Tuesday night at Newport Community Hub starting March 7, while the Laverton group meets on Thursday nights at Laverton Community Hub starting March 9.
Sons of the West is an initiative of the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation, delivered in partnership with Hobsons Bay City Council.
Former Hobsons Bay Sons of the West participant John Petersen said joining the program got him out of the house for the first time in seven years.
"It was an opportunity to learn something new and meet new people," John said.
"It was a safe place, there was always lots of encouragement. One of the lectures we had led me to join the Heart Foundation walking group in Hobsons Bay, which I've been a part of for three years now.
"Sons of the West has really shaped me into the person I am today. Before I started, I did nothing, I saw no one. Now I'm in demand! I'm just having fun with life now."
Ray Murphy joined the program with his son and said it had a huge impact on him.
"It was revolutionary. It helped me find a new way of exercising after a recent surgery which had left me feeling restricted in the gym," Ray said.
"It also keeps you mindful, it opens you up to what's going on in the community."
Mayor of Hobsons Bay, Cr Tony Briffa, said Sons of the West had helped so many men in our community over the past decade.
"This is an amazing program. As we know, it can be difficult getting men to look after their health, whether that's physical or mental, and Sons of the West is a great way to break down those barriers," she said.
"It gets you out, meeting new people, learning news ways to look after yourself better, and having fun while doing it.
"I really encourage anyone thinking about joining to give it a go, or to encourage men you know to think about applying."
To express interest in joining the program, visit the Sons of the West webpage.
Photo: Ray Murphy
