Every day in Australia, seven men take their own lives—a stark and heartbreaking reality that demands our attention. But what if something as simple as a morning swim could change that? Meet the Cronulla Gropers, a group of Aussie mates who are making waves in the fight for men's mental health, one dip in the ocean at a time.
As the sun rises over Cronulla Beach in Sydney’s southern suburbs, a unique brotherhood gathers. Rain, hail, or shine, these blokes—a mix of lifelong mates and total strangers—come together for more than just a swim. Led by Jason Dorahy and Lee Murphy, this early morning swim club has grown to over 280 members, all united by a shared goal: to support each other through life’s challenges. And here’s the part most people miss—it’s not just about the swim; it’s about the connection, the laughter, and the raw, honest conversations that happen along the way.
But here’s where it gets controversial: In a world where men are often told to ‘toughen up,’ this group dares to be vulnerable. “We don’t claim to be psychologists,” Lee explains. “We’re just mates gathering to swim, chat, and laugh.” Yet, the impact is profound. Members have shared stories of finding here what they couldn’t in rehab or therapy. “Guys say they’ve been through psychologists, psychiatrists, and haven’t had the results we’ve had here,” Lee adds. Is this the future of mental health support? A simple, community-driven approach that bypasses traditional methods?
The group is as diverse as it gets—CEOs, tradies, bus drivers, and even federal MP Simon Kennedy. “Being vulnerable is something a lot of men struggle with,” Simon admits. But in the water, titles don’t matter. “When you put on those budgie smugglers, you’re just another guy,” Jason says. It’s a leveling experience, one that fosters honesty and support.
And this is the part that’ll make you think: Jason himself has battled separation, redundancy, and major heart surgery. “It’s horrible to stay mentally strong,” he admits. Yet, he’s found gratitude in the daily ritual of swimming. “It’s about waking up and being thankful for every day.” This raises a question: Could gratitude and community be the missing pieces in men’s mental health conversations?
The Gropers have a motto: “No one gets left behind.” Whether you’re a ‘tea bagger’ (a quick dipper), a 200-metre buoy swimmer, or part of the elite ‘A team’ tackling the two-kay Shark Island swim, there’s a place for everyone. Jason’s dad, ex-rugby league player John, sums it up: “It’s about guys with the same goal—feeling good for ourselves and our families.”
Former rugby star Jeff Hardy adds a deeper layer: “It’s about connection—to people, to the group, to the tribe, and to the country.” In a world filled with mental challenges, could this sense of belonging be the antidote?
As the swim ends and the group warms up with coffee, the message is clear: “Just have a chat,” Lee urges. “No matter how bad it seems, there’s someone here who’ll listen.” It’s a simple idea, but one that’s saving lives.
Here’s the question we leave you with: In a society that often silences men’s struggles, could initiatives like the Cronulla Gropers be the key to breaking the cycle? Do you think this model could work elsewhere? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your thoughts.
