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Men Leading Change

On Fri 5th Dec '25, member David Sproules had the privilege of representing our club at the Men Leading Change to Prevent Violence Forum 2025, held at The Goods Shed on Wadawurrung Country. The forum focused on building healthy masculinities for healthy relationships—at home, at work, and throughout our community.

The morning opened with a powerful keynote from Mitch Brown (he/him) — former AFL player and advocate for inclusion, authenticity, and positive masculinity. Mitch shared his story of searching for belonging as a young boy and the messages that shaped his early understanding of manhood. His vulnerability reminded us how important these conversations are in shaping safer futures.

We then heard from a thoughtful panel featuring:

  • Tim Richardson MP (he/him)
  • Adam Toohey (he/him) – What Kind of Man Do You Want to Be?
  • Dom Alford (he/him) – Jesuit Social Services, The Men’s Project
  • Dr Innocent Nwatsiya (he/him) – La Trobe University

The discussion explored what it means to be a man today, the pressures boys and men face, and the role positive leadership can play in preventing violence.

Attendees also took part in the workshop “Our mate Dave: Active Bystander,” facilitated by Women’s Health Grampians, giving practical tools to safely intervene when we witness harmful attitudes or behaviours.

This event sits strongly within the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence — the international United Nations campaign running from 25 November to 10 December. Across Australia, hundreds of events aim to raise awareness, advocate for change, and inspire action to protect women, girls, and gender diverse people.

Many thanks David for representing our Rotary club at a forum which encourages reflection, responsibility, and community leadership. Together, we can help create a safer and more respectful Ballarat. The club also thanks David for the great article.