Australia, USA, Ireland: Hundreds of men across three continents will take their first steps at dawn today in an extraordinary display of global solidarity for men's mental health, walking 60 kilometres to represent the 60 men lost to suicide every hour worldwide.
The third annual '60 for 60' walk, organised by men's wellbeing charity WNOW, will see participants walking simultaneously in Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Phillip Island, Tasmania, New York, and Ireland - covering the distance in approximately 14 hours. The Perth WNOW members completed their walk last week.
"Three years ago, we started this walk with a small group in Sydney. Today, we have hundreds of men stepping out across the globe, each step representing our commitment to ending the epidemic of male loneliness," says WNOW co-founder and former Sydney Swans player Tadhg Kennelly. "This isn't just a walk - it's a powerful statement about men supporting men and breaking down the barriers that keep us isolated."
"Since founding WNOW in 2021, we've seen first-hand how powerful male connection can be," adds co-founder David Eccles. "Our recent member survey showed most members reported a positive life impact, and experienced improved mental health. Today's walk is about expanding that impact to every community that needs it."
WNOW has grown rapidly to approximately 3,000 members across 45 chapters worldwide, with men aged 15 to 75 representing 63 nationalities. The organisation's signature Sunrise Club – free weekly 6am meetings combining exercise, sharing, and coffee - has become a cornerstone of connection for many members.
With 75 per cent of Australian suicides being male, WNOW's proactive, community-based approach focuses on building resilience through regular connection. "While we're not a crisis service, we're creating spaces where men can be authentic and vulnerable - something that's crucial for mental health," adds Kennelly. "A community where men can explore what it means to be a better man, tackling challenges together."
The walk aims to raise funds to establish new WNOW chapters worldwide, responding to growing demand for men's support services. The public can support this initiative by donating at: https://wnow-60-for-60-walk.raisely.com/.
Key Facts:
Event Details:
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What: WNOW 60km Walk for Men's Mental Health
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When: Friday, November 29, 2024
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Duration: Approximately 14 hours
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Locations: Nine walks across three continents - Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Phillip Island, Tasmania, Perth, New York, and Ireland
Images, B-roll footage, and interview opportunities available upon request.
About us:
About WNOW
WNOW (When No One's Watching) is a community-driven organisation creating spaces for men to connect and support each other in becoming better individuals, partners, fathers, and friends. Through regular meetups, events, and peer support, WNOW is actively combating the growing epidemic of male loneliness and isolation. With 45 chapters and 3000 men representing 63 nationalities, the organisation's goal is to reach one million men worldwide. https://www.wnow.com.au/
Contact details:
Media Contact:
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Louise Nealon, 0403 569 177, louise@prwithpurpose.com.au
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Tadhg Kennelly, Co-Founder WNOW, 0413 771 665
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David Eccles, Co-Founder WNOW, 0450 476 819
