Last week, we had the chance to jump on the mic with 101.5FM and chat about the impact of the Top Blokes program across the Moreton Bay region — and how we’re backing young men to lead healthier, safer, and more connected lives.
Our very own Reece Anderson, Regional Coordinator and all-round legend, was invited to speak after him and his team were awarded the Rotary Club of Caboolture’s Pride of Workmanship Award for his outstanding contribution to youth development. Safe to say, we’re proud.
101.5FM was keen to find out more about how Top Blokes creates long-term change in our programs.
Reece shared one of the key ways we do this: through our Supporters Program. Each participant can nominate a trusted adult — a parent, carer, teacher, or coach — to receive short text prompts after every session. These messages include conversation starters that help the young person reflect on what they’ve learned and talk it out at home.
It might seem simple, but it’s powerful.
“Boys, come back and tell me things like, ‘I didn’t know my dad had made some of the same mistakes.’ Suddenly, those conversations are happening, and it changes the whole dynamic at home.”
Keeping the momentum going
We also discussed the Top Blokes Grad Club — our way of staying connected with young men after they complete the program. From learning how to help a mate to footy experiences with players like NRL legend Kieran Foran, these events keep young men engaged and surrounded by positive role models.
“At one school, we even invite previous graduates to return and help hand over the certificates to the new Top Blokes. It’s legacy-building — and the boys love it.”
Growth in Moreton Bay – and the challenge ahead
“The interest is there. We’ve got schools on the waitlist who want the program. But like any not-for-profit, we rely on funding, and we need more Youth Workers on the ground.”
Still, we’re optimistic. In just two years, the program in that region has grown from two days a week to five — and with the continued support of schools, Rotary, Lions, and local champions, we’re ready to take it even further.
What’s next?
With graduations around the corner, 101.5FM will invite some of our young graduates to come on air and share their stories. We’re excited to make that happen, because the most powerful voices in this work are the young men themselves.
Thanks again to 101.5FM and the Rotary Club of Caboolture for recognising the work we do and helping us spread the word. If you’re a parent, teacher, or community leader who wants to bring Top Blokes to your school or help us expand, we’d love to chat.
Together, we’re changing the story for young men — one honest conversation at a time.
