Tasmanian men are significantly less likely to seek help early and are more likely to experience poorer health outcomes than women, prompting a new grassroots push bringing healthcare directly into local communities.
In a joint initiative during Men’s Health Week, RFDS Tasmania and the Tasmanian Men’s Shed Association will deliver advice inside three Men’s Sheds across the state.
The program will visit Scottsdale, Swansea and Margate, creating informal, trusted environments where men can have conversations about their health and access support early.
This year’s Men’s Health Week theme focuses on early check-ups and taking action when something doesn’t feel right.
Tasmanian men are among those least likely to seek help early, with Australian research showing more than half (51%) of men have delayed or avoided seeing a healthcare professional when they needed to.
At the same time, Tasmania has some of the highest rates of chronic disease in the country, with 58.4% of adults living with at least one long-term health condition.
RFDS Tasmania clinicians will be on site offering information about available services, aiming to remove barriers and normalise conversations about health.
The Flying Doctor’s aeromedical simulator will also be on display, a replica of the aircraft used in lifesaving retrievals across the state in partnership with Ambulance Tasmania.
RFDS Tasmania Health Services Manager Bernard Feenan said meeting men where they already feel comfortable is key to improving outcomes.
“We know men are less likely to seek help early, and that can have serious consequences for their long-term health,” Mr Feenan said.
"By partnering with Men’s Sheds, we’re bringing healthcare into a space where men already feel connected and comfortable, making it easier to start those important conversations."
Bernie Feenan - RFDS Tasmania Health Services Manager“Most people recognise our red-bellied planes, but RFDS Tasmania delivers so much more, from mental health and primary care services to dental programs in rural and remote communities. This is about making those services more visible and accessible.”
Tasmanian Men’s Shed Association Executive Officer Wendy Kennedy said the organisation is committed to improving the health and wellbeing of Tasmanian men.
"'This is a fantastic coming together of two highly respected and valued organisations, working to improve the health and wellbeing of Tasmanian Men," Ms Kennedy said.
"Men's Sheds are a men's health program, bringing men together to enjoy the fun, banter, purpose and productivity that Sheds provide. As I often say, healthy men means healthy communities and whilst many organisations struggle to get volunteers, Men's Sheds certainly buck this trend, with numbers continuing to rise. At a time when loneliness is one of the biggest risks to our health, Men's Sheds provide a place of connection throughout Tasmania. Without a doubt, Sheds save lives."
If you're in the below areas, drop in for a snag and a chat!
- DORSET MEN'S SHED (Christopher Street, Scottsdale) - Wednesday 17th June, 11am-2.30pm
- SWANSEA MEN'S SHED (4 Arnol Street, Swansea) - Thursday 18th June, 12.30pm-1.30pm
