A men’s group that started with 12 blokes meeting over coffee at a Lenah Valley bakery has grown to three locations, with a new gathering now running in New Norfolk.
Banjo’s Banter 4 Blokes already meets at Banjo’s Bakery Cafe in Lenah Valley and Lindisfarne. The New Norfolk group gives men in the Derwent Valley their own gathering.
Sessions start at 6:30am on Wednesdays, with men of all ages coming together to chat, share stories and support one another.
Founder Chris Kilpatrick, a Hobart construction worker, started the group after watching mates struggle in silence.
“It’s not about having all the answers,” he said.
“It’s about showing up, listening and creating a space where blokes feel welcome and valued.”
Kilpatrick has previously told Pulse suicide was “really prevalent” in the construction industry.
Attendance at the original group grew from 12 men at the first gathering to around 30 at each session.
The move to New Norfolk came after Banjo’s franchisee Robbie Isles saw posts about the group on social media and decided something similar was needed in the Derwent Valley.
“Banjos’ Banter 4 Blokes reflects the growing demand for community-based opportunities that encourage social connection and positive mental wellbeing,” Isles said.
Guest speakers arranged by early member Andrew Moore have included former St Kilda footballer Steven Baker and NRL player Rod Stone. Both spoke about struggling, mateship and having a safe space to lean on other men.
Baker has spoken about losing close mate Shane Warne and falling into alcohol and drugs.
“Sometimes a simple conversation can make a difference to someone’s week,” Moore said.
Organisers say there are no speeches, unless a guest is visiting and no pressure to talk. Men are welcome to share their experiences or simply have a coffee and listen.
Bob, a recent retiree from Lindisfarne, walked in for the first time without knowing anyone.
“By the end of the morning, everyone is part of the conversation,” he said.
Banjo’s Bakery director Brad Saxby said getting behind the group was easy.
“Sometimes the most powerful words are simply, how are you going?” he said.
More information is available by searching Banjo’s Banter 4 Blokes on Facebook.
