3 minute read
Grab Life by the Balls
Improving the wellbeing of boys and men through mateship
Sam Parker’s journey to founding Grab Life By The Balls began on the Sunshine Coast in 2016. A chiropractor passionate about personal development, Sam's growing practice revealed to him the pressing issue of men's health in Australia.
The catalyst for Grab Life came unexpectedly during a casual evening with friends in October 2016. Over burgers and whisky, Sam recognised the power of organic social connections in fostering wellbeing. In November of that year, he launched Bro’s Burgers & Brews, a monthly gathering promoting camaraderie among men.
Sam’s philosophy of proactive intervention, rather than reactive problem-solving, led to the evolution of Grab Life. Inspired by a desire to initiate change before crises emerged, the organisation shifted its focus to men’s mental health, particularly in suicide prevention.
However, Sam’s personal journey gave Grab Life a unique edge. Struggling with the pressures of fatherhood, he confronted his own vulnerabilities. This experience deepened his understanding of men's mental health beyond statistics, shaping the organisation's approach.
Grab Life's impact expanded rapidly, garnering attention from The Alliance for Suicide Prevention Sunshine Coast and facilitating partnerships with Waves of Wellness and other organisations. By June 2019, Grab Life had established a network of events across Australia and New Zealand.
The onset of Covid-19 posed new challenges, prompting Sam to adapt Grab Life’s initiatives for virtual engagement. Despite setbacks, the organisation persevered, expanding its reach along the Sunshine Coast and beyond.
Fire up the BBQ from September 1 up to and including Father’s Day, September 8, and join a Grab Life By the BBQ! Join us in igniting conversations and breaking records, creating positive changes in men's mental health. Grab your mates, have a yarn, and Grab Life By the BBQ for men’s mental health.
Sam’s innovative approach culminated in Be A Great Mate, a men’s health awareness talk designed to resonate with its target audience. The success of this program demonstrated that empowering men with knowledge could drive positive change.
Reflecting on his journey, Sam remains committed to expanding Grab Life’s impact, particularly among younger demographics. Through grassroots efforts and community partnerships, he envisions a future where men's health receives the attention it deserves.
As Grab Life grows, Sam’s dedication to the Mateship Movement remains unwavering. By fostering connections and empowering individuals, he believes positive change is possible and inevitable. Together, we are grabbing life by the balls, one conversation at a time.
https://www.grablifebytheballs.com.au/
Fire up the BBQ from September 1 up to and including Father’s Day, September 8, and join a Grab Life By the BBQ! Join us in igniting conversations and breaking records, creating positive changes in men's mental health. Grab your mates, have a yarn, and Grab Life By the BBQ for men’s mental health.
Register here: https://www.grablifebythebbq.com/
