Central Coast Council is launching an innovative podcast series featuring the lives of six Central Coast men from various walks of life, to spotlight the changing role of masculinity.

‘Man;Kind’ is Council’s first project that looks into the stereotypes around what it means to be a man in a bid to tell an alternative story about the impact of social issues, such as gender violence and equality, on the Central Coast.

Council Director Connected Communities, Julie Vaughan said the podcast aims to encourage everyone to work together to explore various perspectives on key social issues that impact on community wellbeing and vulnerable people.

“What these podcasts really highlight is the fact that there is no one way to be male and we are pleased to be able to create this platform that allows Central Coast men to share their stories,” Ms Vaughan said.

“Gender equality and gendered violence are extremely important topics within the community and it’s vital for the local community and local men to have a platform to share their experiences, challenges, ideas and knowledge, and realise they’re not alone.’’

'Man;Kind’ will officially launch on 22 November at the spoken word poetry night at Wyong’s Art House, after which it will be available to download.

Mayor Lisa Matthews said the podcast series reinforces the work that Council is doing to ensure our community is inclusive for all.

“As a Council we have a responsibility to help alleviate the impact of social issues as well as start conversations around issues such as gender inequality, gender-based violence, domestic violence and socio-economic disadvantage,” Mayor Matthews said.

“It’s important that we all have the opportunity to be heard and we’re delighted to be able launch this initiative – the first that focuses on men but is aimed to encourage discussion among everyone.”

To continue these important conversations, during November and December as part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, Council is rolling out a ‘Healthy Relationships’ campaign for young people, running a series of ‘Supporting Healthy Relationships’ workshops and a temporary lightbox installation will be displayed on Terrigal Foreshore.

Visit centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/mankind for more information.