Dad’s Day Out also builds on what has been a successful week for men’s health in this region, with initiatives such as last Friday’s Gallic Club lunch, the Bendigo Football and Netball League semi finals and, of course, Men’s Health Week itself, which kicked off yesterday.

About 20,000 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer this year across Australia.

The incidence is higher in regional and rural areas. Sadly, about 3000 of these fathers, sons, brothers and mates will die from the disease.

That’s about the same as the number of women who will die due to breast cancer each year.

There is a serious need for a far greater amount of work in our community to promote the issues around men’s health – not the least because most men are their own worst enemies.

The proven reluctance of a lot of men to talk about health, work and emotional issues can lead to far greater problems not just for men in our community, but for their families as well.

There’s a jam-packed program of events planned for Men’s Health Week through until next Saturday.

We encourage all men to take advantage of these information sessions, health assessments, open days or group exercise sessions.

At the very least, you will feel a lot better for doing so and it could help improve your health, your lifestyle or even your life.