Across Merri-bek, small changes are adding up to something big. Men who had not exercised in years are now turning up each week to train, talk and reconnect. Women who once felt out of place in a gym are finding their confidence through shared movement and conversation.
These are the stories behind the Men of Merri-bek and Women of Merri-bek programs, free community initiatives delivered by the Y in partnership with Active Merri-bek. Both aim to make health and wellbeing accessible to everyone, removing common barriers like cost, confidence and cultural inclusion.
Each six-week program blends guided exercise with workshops on topics that shape daily life such as mental health, relationships, nutrition and body image. Guest speakers from organisations including Beyond Blue, Relationships Australia and the Salvation Army have helped create spaces where people feel safe to speak openly and support one another.
Of the 30 men who enrolled, up to 20 attended each week, many of them new to group exercise. Almost half came from culturally diverse backgrounds. Every participant reported improvements in physical activity or confidence, while 95 per cent said they gained a stronger sense of belonging.
The program put us all at ease. It felt good to be ourselves around each other. It’s really got me back out of my shell. Participant
That sense of connection is what organisers hoped for most. “Everyone was helping each other,” one man said. “Having a place to go each week has boosted my energy levels.”
To help maintain those new habits, participants were offered a complimentary three-month Active Merri-bek membership, giving them an easy way to keep active at council-run facilities. Many have continued exercising together. “It’s restarted me on my health and wellness journey,” said one man in his fifties.
The Women of Merri-bek program mirrored that success, reaching full capacity and drawing women of all ages and backgrounds. Sessions combined fitness with discussions about mental health and self-esteem, leading to new friendships and lasting routines.
Both programs show the power of starting small and local. By focusing on people and connection, they’ve helped residents feel healthier, more confident and part of something bigger.
As one man put it simply, “Loved the regular exercise and feeling part of a community.”