As part of this year’s Victorian Seniors Festival, Fernlea Community House in Emerald is extending a warm invitation to local men aged 60 and over for a relaxed morning tea on Saturday, 11 October 2025, from 10am to 12pm.
The free event, held at 356 Belgrave Gembrook Road, Emerald, aims to bring men together over a cuppa, with the goal of building connections and encouraging conversation among those navigating life after retirement.
John Doutch, a long-time volunteer and advocate for older men’s wellbeing, said the morning tea is about “getting to know each other” in an easygoing, judgement-free setting.
“We just sit around and talk men’s talk,” Mr Doutch said.
“It’s a chance to meet new people, share stories, and see if there’s interest in starting a regular group down the track.”
While Fernlea’s event is a one-off during the festival, Mr Doutch said it may lay the groundwork for something ongoing in Emerald.
“I’ve been wanting to do a group at Emerald for a number of years now,” he said.
“We thought we’d sow the seeds at this morning tea, and see how it goes. The best time to kick off a regular group would be after the Christmas and New Year break in February.”
Mr Doutch, who helped start Melbourne’s first men’s discussion group in Narre Warren in 2007, said the idea came from his own experience of retirement.
“I was very busy for the first six months,” he said, “but then I got out of bed one morning and thought, ‘What am I going to do today?’ It was a strange question to ask yourself.”
Since then, he’s been instrumental in establishing groups across Melbourne, including Cranbourne, Berwick, Beaconsfield, and Pakenham, all focused on positive ageing and building friendships.
“Once you leave your work environment, it’s important to maintain your individuality and expand your friendship base,” Mr Doutch said.
“Most men don’t sit around and talk in groups like women often do, but once they give it a go, it makes a big difference.”
The Morning Tea is open to all men aged 60 and over, with no registration required, though Mr Doutch strongly encouraged attendees to arrive by 10am sharp to ensure the session runs smoothly.
The event will be co-led by Mr Doutch and Mr Ken, both experienced in facilitating men’s discussion groups.
The atmosphere promises to be “fun, friendly and insightful.”
Mr Doutch said while groups like the Men’s Shed serve an important role, not every man feels comfortable there.
This event offers a different kind of space, one that’s simple, welcoming, and open-ended.
“We’re not here to push anything,” he said.
“It’s just a cuppa, a chat, and maybe the start of something good for the local blokes.”
For more information, contact John on 0431 844 833 or Ken on 0419 574 865.
