Men across the Hastings now have the opportunity for a chat and coffee with their peers after social group, Blokes Coffee Time was founded.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Men of all ages can join the social media group, who gather for coffee once each fortnight on Wednesday at 10am. The first meeting was held at Sea Acres Rainforest Cafe in Shelly Beach on February 3.
The group has gained around thirty members since foundation in January, after it was started by former Sydney, now Port Macquarie resident Vincent Moore.
Mr Moore said the idea behind the group is to make new buddies, have some time together and relax.
"I've just moved recently before Christmas and decided to create the group because it's a new start from 60-odd years in Sydney," he said.
"My wife, Jane goes to women's coffee groups but there were no men's coffee groups and I think it's time to start one.
"Women tend to be more proactive than men in forming social groups. Men can get lonely out there and may need some buddies to talk to. Many guys may only have their partner as an outlet to talk to and there are some things they wish to talk to other men about privately."
The group plans to schedule regular group coffee meet-ups every second Wednesday at 10am in various Port Macquarie locations.
Mr Moore said the COVID pandemic has placed added pressure on everyone, including men who were already isolated.
"The COVID experience has been horrendous, it's messed up the world, it's probably increased depression and social isolation. We needed a coffee group to help alleviate social isolation," he said.
"Port Macquarie isn't as big as a place like Sydney and in some ways there are less opportunities for groups like this.
"Many people may also have friends through work, but obviously when people retire they may need additional connections.
"I've never done anything like this in Sydney and to be honest I had a few butterflies before the first meeting on February 3. We've had nine people turn up and I'm definitely pleased with the turnout for the first one."
You can join the group at Blokes Coffee Time on Facebook.
Ladies in the area gathered last year to launch a similar Coffee, Chats and New Friends support group in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
What else is making news, sport?
While you're with us, you can also receive updates straight to your inbox from the Port Macquarie News. To make sure you're up to date with all the news, sign up here. If you would like to support our journalists you can subscribe here.