Real Blokes
Everything else on this site is written to be useful. This bit's different. Real Blokesis for the stories — first-hand, honest, from everyday Australian men who've been through the hard stuff and are still here. Because hearing another bloke say “I went through that and came out the other side” lands in a way no amount of good advice ever can.
Why we're doing this
For men, a bloke who's lived it beats an expert nearly every time. A 58-year-old farmer who had a breakdown. A young sparky who nearly chucked it in after a split. A FIFO worker who finally rang someone. Those voices build a kind of trust that polished copy can't fake — and we're not going to fake it. No stock photos, no actors, no made-up names. Just real men, in their own words. If it's a bit rough around the edges, good. That's the point.
We're collecting these now
This section's just getting started — and it only works if blokes put their hand up. If you've been through something and reckon your story might help the bloke reading this at 11pm, we'd be honoured to share it. You don't have to be a writer. You don't have to use your name. You just have to be real.
Share your story →That button opens an email with a few prompts. Prefer another way? Email us at [email protected].
The ground rules
- Your words, your call.Use your first name, your initials, or stay anonymous — whatever you're comfortable with.
- It's read by a human.We read every submission. We might tidy it lightly for length or clarity, but we'll never put words in your mouth, and we'll check with you before publishing.
- Safety first.To keep this a safe place to read, we don't publish graphic detail about methods of self-harm or suicide. We may not be able to run every story, and that's nothing against you.
- Keep others' privacy.Tell your story, but don't identify other people (an ex, your kids, your boss) without their okay.
If you're in the thick of it right now, this isn't the place to wait for a reply.
Please reach out properly: Lifeline 13 11 14 or MensLine 1300 78 99 78, any hour. There's more help here.