Merv Hughes and men's health popular dinner topics
10 May 2010
Dinner with Merv Hughes might be booked out, but the men of Tamworth can still come along to hear the cricket legend chat about his career and the need for men to look after their health.
Merv is the Ambassador for Andrology Australia* and is visiting Tamworth on Thursday May 13 to spin a few yarns, pitch a few tales and deliver some important messages about men’s health.
‘An Evening with Merv’ is being supported by North West Slopes Division of General Practice, Hunter New England Health, Department of Industry and Investment, Anglican Counselling, Andrology Australia and The Centre for Rural and Remote Mental Health.
Orgnaisers are thrilled with the response so far, with 200 men signing up to attend the dinner component of the FREE evening.
“The level of interest in the event has been fantastic, and the dinner is now fully booked,” Programs Manager of North West Slopes Division of General Practice, Robyn Cathcart said.
“However, men can still attend the post-dinner function, which starts at 7.15pm. We have about 40 places left, and we would encourage them to phone and register to ensure their spot,” Mrs Cathcart said
The night will also include a talk by leading Tamworth health professional Dr Chris Trethewy.
As an Ambassador for Andrology Australia, Merv Hughes is a strong advocate for managing overall health and wellbeing and the importance of leading a healthy lifestyle.
“Men need to get check-ups and look after their bodies just like they get their cars or their tractors serviced,” Mental Health Drought Worker with Hunter New England Health Kate Arndell said.
“The typical male attitude is ‘she’ll be right mate, I don’t have to go to the doctors unless my leg is hanging off’. By hosting this event for men we hope to change some of the attitudes around health and seeking help.”
Australian men were more likely than Australian women to get sick from serious health problems, such as cancer.
“Their death rate is also much higher and the poor health status of Australian men is impacted on by the fact that men are more likely than women to shy away from medical treatment of any kind”.
It was also important to improve men’s knowledge of health issues and provide them with the information they need to get help.
When: Thursday 13 May at 5.30pm (those not wishing to attend the free dinner are still encouraged to come and hear the speakers at 7.15pm)
Where: The Longyard Hotel, Ringers Road, Tamworth
For more information or to register for the post-dinner speaking event contact 6766 1394 (group bookings welcomed).
More information on men’s health can also be obtained at www.andrologyaustralia.org or www.beyondblue.org.au
* Andrology Australia is the nation’s peak organisation for male reproductive health and is an Australian Government initiative.
Contact: Frances Holz
Phone: 4939 2216