the older men’s network, preventing suicide since 2001
Our expertise is Older Men. The Older Men’s Network was originally formed by eight older men who identified high levels of suicide in their peers within the Toowoomba community. They set to reduce this. The group was driven by older men, for older men – this fundamental principle is the reason for TOMNET’s continued success today.
Eighteen men 50+ die by suicide every week in Australia (ABS, 2020).
We are passionate about reducing this statistic by supporting men 50+ to improve their mental health and wellbeing.
Information about TOMNET, factsheets for men, helpful brochures,
newsletters, and governance.
Our Management Committee
TOMNET (The Older Mens Network Inc), is an incorporated association representing older men.
Our eleven elected committee members are men 50+ who actively provide leadership, encouragement, and promote TOMNET services in the community.
The Executive is elected for a four-year term, and our General Committee Members for a two year period. The committee meet on the 3rd Wednesday of every month and are responsible for the strategic direction of the organisation and for meeting governance requirements.
The TOMNET Team
Shannon Wade
General Manager
Shannon joined TOMNET in 2022 bringing extensive experience in mental health and well-being in the not-for-profit community services sector. Shannon is passionate about supporting the emotional well-being of older men and connecting them to each other and the community.
Shannon loves the diversity of her role and being able to support men to create a positive and meaningful retirement experience whatever their circumstances.
Anthony Hegarty
Program Manager
I entered the Mental Health field in 2014 when joining The Older Mens Network. Since joining, I have been committed to supporting older men in their transition to retirement, helping them find the support they need, and walking alongside them through the ups and downs. On a constant path of exploration, I have completed training in Mental Health First Aid, Suicide Assist, a Cert IV in Mental Health, and studied a Diploma in Counselling.
I want to use my skills to inspire other men to enjoy life, and make a difference in their lives.
The TOMNET Team
Shannon Wade
General Manager
Shannon joined TOMNET in 2022 bringing extensive experience in mental health and well-being in the not-for-profit community services sector. Shannon is passionate about supporting the emotional well-being of older men and connecting them to each other and the community.
Shannon loves the diversity of her role and being able to support men to create a positive and meaningful retirement experience whatever their circumstances.
Anthony Hegarty
Program Manager
I entered the Mental Health field in 2014 when joining The Older Mens Network. Since joining, I have been committed to supporting older men in their transition to retirement, helping them find the support they need, and walking alongside them through the ups and downs. On a constant path of exploration, I have completed training in Mental Health First Aid, Suicide Assist, Cert. IV in Mental Health, and studied a Diploma in Counselling.
I want to use my skills to inspire other men to enjoy life, and make a difference in their lives.
TOMNET Brochures
pdf version (2mb)
TOMNET Factsheets
zipped version (2.7mb)
TOMNET Brochures
pdf version (2mb)
TOMNET Factsheets
zipped version (2.7mb)
Older Men Hidden Hardships
Documentary
The TOMNET DVD features the lives of six older blokes sharing their stories of hardship and personal struggles in an effort to highlight older mens issues.
Contact TOMNET on 07 4638 9080 for your copy.
“its not always easy, indeed its mostly very hard for older blokes to tell you how they really feel. Here are the stories of six of our older men, who courageously let us into their lives, their struggles, their innermost feelings and how they found light
at the end of their personal tunnel.” Narrator – Royce Perkins
“its not always easy, indeed its mostly very hard for older blokes to tell you how they really feel. Here are the stories of six of our older men, who courageously let us into their lives, their struggles, their innermost feelings and how they found light
at the end of their personal tunnel.” Narrator – Royce Perkins
TOMNET monthly e-newsletter
Keep up with what’s happening in our organisation.
Featuring stories from bus trips, Volunteering, barbecues, helpful articles on mens issues, plus events and special interest group updates.
Please contact us for previous versions of the Newsletter or to be added to the monthly mailout (via email).
The Retired Blokes’ Book
The Retired Blokes’ Book is a directory of services,
contacts, support groups, and current information
from services in your community. This book is a
resource to help you plan for a meaningful retirement
and make it one of the best chapters in your life.
The Retired Blokes’ Book
The Retired Blokes’ Book is a directory of services,
contacts, support groups, and current information
from services in your community.
This book is a
resource to help you plan for a meaningful retirement
and make it one of the best chapters in your life.
(This link will open a new page)
Governance Details
Code of Conduct
privacy document
feedback form
client services charter
website policy
Commitment to ABTI Communities
Client rights and responsibility
If you are struggling with retirement, need new ideas, or just need to talk, TOMNET can meet with you either face to face, via telephone, or zoom to discuss your current retirement plans and help you find your pathway to a meaningful retirement.
The conversation could change your life.
What are you waiting for?
TOMNET – 07 4638 9080