Why The Great Mate Check-In Exists
The Great Mate Check-In was born from a simple, heartfelt belief: men thrive when they have strong, supportive communities around them. Our founder, Stacey MacMillan-White, first felt compelled to act in 2023, noticing a void in local recognition of International Men’s Day. That initial gathering sparked incredibly raw and powerful conversations, instantly revealing a deep hunger for authentic connection among men. This overwhelming response ignited a vision for something far bigger – a vital, year-round movement. We’re here to continually break down the barriers that keep men isolated, fostering genuine connections and encouraging open dialogue about mental well-being. It’s about making real connections and driving real, positive change every single day.
Our Story: From a Simple Question to a Powerful Movement
Meet Stacey MacMillan-White, the passionate founder and driving force behind The Great Mate Check-In. To truly understand our mission, we invite you to hear directly from Stacey about her personal ‘why.’ While our year-round movement officially blossomed in 2024, its powerful roots trace back to a pivotal moment in 2023, as she shares the inspiration and journey that brought TGMC to life.
“For years, through my business, How to Help, I’ve highlighted various awareness days and causes. And every International Women’s Day, I’d see a wave of incredible events, while simultaneously hearing the whispers: “Why don’t we do this for men? Someone should do something.” I’d often reply, “There is an International Men’s Day in November – keep an eye out.”
But in 2023, while attending an International Women’s Day event in Eatons Hill, hosted by the City of Moreton Bay and MBRIT, a powerful thought struck me: I was tired of waiting for ‘someone’ to act. I realised, ‘I’m someone. I can do something.’
And so, I set out to build and host an event for International Men’s Day in November 2023. Honestly, I was shocked by its success. I’d never organised an event of this scale, let alone a fundraising one, and especially not for a subject – men’s mental health – that so often struggles to get the attention it needs and deserves.
The overwhelming response and the raw, powerful conversations that emerged from that first gathering were a revelation. It became clear that men’s mental health needed more than just one day a year; it needed consistent, dedicated focus. It was this realization that ignited the vision for The Great Mate Check-In – evolving from a single, impactful event into a year-round movement. Our journey continues, driven by the belief that every man deserves connection and support, every single day.”
Meet the Team
We are a passionate volunteer team, driven by the belief that everybody deserves to feel connected, supported, and empowered.
Stacey MacMillan-White – Founder & Visionary
As the passionate founder and driving force behind The Great Mate Check-In, Stacey MacMillan-White is the heart of this vital movement. Stemming from her extensive background with ‘How to Help,’ Stacey keenly observed the crucial need for dedicated support for men’s mental well-being beyond a single awareness day. Her unwavering belief in the power of authentic connection and her determination to “be the someone” who acts fuels TGMC’s year-round commitment. Stacey is dedicated to combating loneliness and fostering genuine bonds, ensuring every man – and indeed, all humans – feels seen, heard, and supported on their journey.
Courtney Senior – CoFounder
Courtney Senior’s journey with The Great Mate Check-In began as a passionate attendee, experiencing first-hand the incredible connections forged at both the inaugural 2023 event and the follow-up in 2024. Witnessing the profound impact and immense potential for TGMC to expand and help even more people, Courtney felt a strong call to action. Knowing that Stacey couldn’t carry this vital movement forward alone, and deeply committed to ensuring its momentum wouldn’t fade, Courtney wholeheartedly volunteered her time and expertise. Her dedication and first-hand understanding of TGMC’s mission make her an invaluable force in driving this movement forward.
The Great Mate Check-In 