Bank Place Lodge line up men’s health task force

The members of Bank Place Lodge have formed a men’s health task force – inspired by a desire to foster stronger connections, encourage openness and support the wellbeing of their brethren and the wider community.

Recognising that men often find it difficult to ask for help, the Lodge is working to de-stigmatise mental health conversations and promote help-seeking behaviour. While building a culture of openness within the Lodge itself is a key focus, members also acknowledged that for many people, the first step toward support may be through anonymous online or telephone services rather than face-to-face conversations.

MensLine Australia, delivered by Lifeline, is the national telephone and online support, information and referral service for men with concerns about mental health, family violence, parenting and relationships, anxiety and depression, anger management, grief and loss, loneliness and isolation, substance abuse, stress and suicide prevention. The free 24-hour service is available from anywhere in Australia.

L to R: Adam Harvey - Bank Place Lodge, Simonne Michelle - Head of Philanthropy and Capacity Campaign at MensLine/Lifeline Australia, Richard Payne - Bank Place Lodge Sandra Jacobs - FFV CEO.

Left: the group tour the Lodge rooms. Right: Bank Place Lodge’s Richard Payne shows Simonne Michelle his painting which is displayed in the Freemasons Victoria headquarters.

The service is staffed by professional counsellors experienced in men’s issues, who understand the solution-focused approaches many men prefer and can offer practical support, while also encouraging men to work through important emotional challenges.

Bank Place Lodge raised $4,000 and successfully sought an additional $8,000 through FFV’s Masonic Grants Program to support MensLine Australia’s work, helping fund the trained counsellors who answer calls from men in distress, particularly those seeking support around mental health and suicide prevention.

“This contribution provides funds for trained counsellors to give immediate assistance that helps individual men to navigate isolation and mental health challenges, saving lives, safeguarding families, and strengthening the entire community.”

“It is Freemasonry, a men’s organisation, helping local men in distress."

Richard Payne, Bank Place Lodge

Importantly, Lodge members hope the partnership will also help foster greater awareness and openness around help-seeking within their own community - reinforcing the message that support is available, and that no one has to face difficult moments alone.