Men of Bourke Forum builds connection and community

Bob Dixon and BACHS Acting CEO Jay Forrester. Photo TWH

The 2025 Men of Bourke Forum took place earlier this week, with two days of storytelling, shared experiences, and cultural celebration culminating in a vibrant community concert in Central Park featuring acclaimed Aboriginal artist Mitch Tambo.

Organised and funded by the Bourke Aboriginal Health Corporation Service (BACHS), the forum saw approximately 30 men gather at Bourke Christian Church for open discussions around mental health, connection, and resilience.

The event began with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony led by Robert Dixon of Bourke and District Children’s Service Preschool.

“The smoke is a sign of our unity here today,” Pastor George Mann of Bourke’s Full Gospel Family Fellowship said.

Acting BACHS CEO Jay Forrester, who has been in the role for just 10 weeks, said the forum builds on strong foundations laid last year.

“The first forum was last year, and John Fetuani, James Moore, Nathan Pollard and Uncle Buddy were some key members who wanted to see this happen again,” Mr Forrester said.

“This forum is around participants guiding the conversation. Our team are just part of the facilitation of the discussions that we have over the two days.”

Mr Forrester acknowledged the challenges many face, particularly around mental health, and praised attendees for showing up.

“With mental health, you get quite low; you don’t have energy and the last thing you want to do is see other people,” he said.

Mr Forrester encouraged all attendees to embrace the two days with respect, empathy and openness.

“We just treat everyone with respect and when we’re having tea, coffee or having a meal we hope to get to know someone that you don’t know and have that conversation,” he said. […]

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