Fearless Conversations - The Modern Man

How are changing expectations of masculinity, along with the effects of 'toxic masculinity' influencing men's mental health and wellbeing? As expectations of masculinity continue to shift, boys and men are navigating new pressures, online influences and changing ideas about identity, relationships and wellbeing. While harmful models of masculinity are gaining attention, this conversation asks a different question: what does positive masculinity look like - and how can we better support men and boys across every stage of life? From boyhood to fatherhood, career change, separation, ageing and retirement, men face different challenges that can shape their mental health, sense of purpose and connection to others. Join internationally recognised Flinders University researcher, and Deputy Director of the WellMen Centre of Research Excellence in Boys and Men’s Mental Health, Professor Murray Drummond, who will present the latest research around men’s mental health. This will be followed by a panel of experts and lived experience speakers for a timely conversation on what helps boys and men live healthier, more connected lives. 5:30 PM Doors open 5:45 PM Lecture commences (keynote, panel & audience Q&A) 7:20 PM Networking & Light refreshments 8:00 PM Event concludes KEYNOTE SPEAKER Professor Murray Drummond Research Professor in Sport and Social Impact Deputy Director WellMen Centre of Research Excellence in Boys and Men’s Mental Health, Flinders University Prof. Drummond is Deputy Director of the WellMen Centre of Research Excellence in Boys and Men’s Mental Health. He is also an internationally recognised researcher whose work focuses on the intersection of sport, health, and society, with particular expertise in gender, diversity, equity and inclusion, mental health, and participation in sport and physical activity. Murray has published extensively in leading international journals and is regularly invited to present his work nationally and internationally through conferences, keynote presentations, radio, television, and print media. Murray's current research includes two ARC Discoveries investigating issues around boyhood, mental health and digital lives. He is also leading a significant project on ageing men and walking football to promote socialisation and reduce loneliness and suicide ideation among older men through sport in rural and regional areas. He is also a member of the National Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee for Surf Life Saving Australia. PANEL MEMBERS Craig Robinson Head of Education, Port Adelaide Football Club Craig Robinson has spent his career at the intersection of sport, leadership and community, combining a lifelong passion for sport with extensive experience driving high-impact outcomes across the sporting industry. A former SANFL player, Craig has always worked in the business of sport in senior commercial and leadership roles, developing a deep understanding of the powerful role sport plays in shaping identity, connection, resilience and wellbeing. Passionate about the evolving sporting landscape, Craig has a strong appreciation of emerging trends, cultural change and the opportunities sport creates to positively influence men's health and wellbeing. As Head of Education at the Port Adelaide Football Club, he leads the next phase of the Port Adelaide Institute of Sport and Business, helping develop future leaders while creating pathways that connect education, sport and personal growth. Drawing on decades of experience in elite sport and athlete development, Craig brings valuable insights into masculinity, purpose, belonging and the role communities and sporting environments can play in supporting positive mental health outcomes for men. David Everitt Chair, Open Door Advisory Board David Everitt is a Vietnam veteran whose experiences have shaped his commitment to men's mental health and wellbeing. After facing significant personal challenges, David found strength through practical habits, connection and purpose. Today, he shares his story to help break stigma and encourage other men to seek support when they need it.