AN exciting way for men to connect over a meal and express themselves in a confidential setting is happening again in Coffs Harbour.

The first ‘Men’s Entree’ took place in April, which led to the formation of the first local Men’s Table.

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Now a group of ten men have committed to regular meetups, facilitated by co-hosts who guide them to go beyond the banter and open up in a different way to pub talk or golf club chat.

This month, two further events of this nature will take place.

“If we tried to do this ten years ago, it would have been tricky, but the pandemic raised the importance and awareness of mental wellbeing,” Anthony Garnam, Regional NSW host of The Men’s Table, told News Of The Area.

“More commonly, there have been breakdowns of families, plus a lot of people have gone to hybrid and remote workplaces, so there’s more isolation – not even any water cooler talk.”

Following success earlier in the year, Anthony is looking to launch two more tables.

“The guys in the first group bonded really well, gaining a strong bond and sense of commonality in a safe area, which they don’t often get,” Anthony told News Of The Area.

“Some of them became co-hosts and they will be coming to the next two entrees to set the scene.”

Before launching, an entree event is held first.

Co-hosts keep an eye on the group, make sure they are ticking along and look for new ideas for further get togethers.

They will explain basic language guidelines which differentiate Men’s Table discussions from conversations normally consisting of small talk, the weather, football scores etc.

“One of the main rules is that one man speaks at a time and everyone listens.

“You take in what they say, but you don’t try to fix them,” Anthony said.

“These ideas don’t get baked in until it’s pointed out to some.”

Anthony said the team support works wonders.

“Some guys are lonely, they might have just moved into the area, don’t know anyone, not twenty five, rocked into town, needing to connect,” said Anthony.

“They can say ‘Hey, I’m feeling like this because….’ and be heard.”

The next events will be held on Saturday 4 November and Thursday 9 November.

Visit www.themenstable.org/coffsharbour for more details and to register, or you can call Anthony on 0411 311 214.

By Mary KEILY