We SMS blokes (Salvos Mates Support) are an all-new group of local Salvos volunteers – offering our time and compassion for our mates out there who are finding it tough.
The Noosa region is where we are now launching our blokes’ help package. The first of its kind for the Salvos in Australia.
We bring a new laid-back dimension in helping guys undergoing stress and anxiety. We are your mates, offering you enjoyable activities as an alternative to counselling or specialist treatment. It’s your choice of activities to share with us.
For example, it could be surfing, sailing, outrigger canoe, fishing, 4WD, bush-walking, art, meditation, cooking, gardening, etc. We have so many options to share and enjoy with you, mostly outdoors, in this magic part of the Sunshine Coast. What better de-stressing therapy than that?
If you are going through tough situations like grief, divorce, retrenchment, loneliness, financial stress, homelessness, depression, etc – we can walk this journey with you as your trusted mates. Blokes are welcome to contact us from late teens through to any age. We have had training in men’s mental health and wellbeing, but we are not experts. We don’t steer you towards any activity. In the true Salvos spirit, we welcome all blokes regardless of faith, race or culture. We are your mates, here to help you to de-stress and get back on your feet.
It’s all private and confidential between you and us. Typically, two of us would initially chat with you for an hour over a coffee – e.g. on a riverside park seat bench or walking along the beach. Up to you how much you disclose to us about your stress. We like to know a little about your past and your current stressful situation, but we are more focused on here and now and your own way forward. We aim to get some spark back into your life mate!
The Noosa Council has kindly awarded Salvos Mates Support a grant for 2025. We are also sponsored and assisted by our residents, our local businesses and the Salvos Family Stores. Find out more on our weblink – www.webofhope.au/sms.
