Dr Elizabeth Celi, author and Men's Health advocate is the keynote speaker at the official launch and will be joined by Rob Koch, a men and fathers consultant in Melbourne, plus several leaders from the Men/Father's Movement.
Dr Celi said "International Men's Day is one of many acknowledgements we need to make to men for their valuable contributions to our society and our families. Their masculine qualities are a strength that focuses and grounds women. Trust me, a world with only women would be no fun at all… To all the blokes out there, Happy International Men's Day. To all the women, text your men friends and wish them a happy International Men's Day."
Rob Koch also throws his support behind this day. "November 19 is a date to validate. Men don't seem to need recognition, approval or appreciation but when it does come his way, even on just one day, he can stand a little taller all the other days. He may shrug off the attention at the time but there will be a noticeably new spring in his step. That's got to be good for everyone."
The co-ordinator of International Men's Day in Australia Warwick Marsh said, "The Fatherhood Foundation is excited about this initiative. We encourage people everywhere to pause for a moment at 1.00pm for a minute silence to remember the 645 brave men of HMAS Sydney who went down with the ship with all hands on deck on 19th November1941. The theme for this year's men's day celebrations is 'honour and sacrifice'. We encourage you to also recognize and honour the daily sacrifices men make each day for their nation, families and friends. They need your support."