International Men's Day will take on extra significance in the Snowy Monaro this year when advocate for men's mental health, Mary O'Brien, brings her highly regarded 'are you bogged mate? organisation to the region.

The Peak View community will hold an important men's only event on Wednesday, 19 November, where men's mental health will be on the agenda in an inclusive and welcoming setting.

James and Julie Barron of the Peak View Rural Fire Service secured a Snowy Hydro community grant to bring Mary to the region. Mary's 'are you bogged mate?' organisation has become one of the nation's leading not-for-profit groups in advocating for improved men's mental health in regional and rural Australia.

The event will see Mary lead a conversation with local men.

'Are you bogged mate?' aims to boost awareness and start a conversation with the broader community about the rising issue of depression and suicide rates among men in rural areas.

Mary said she is looking forward to holding her first event in the Snowy Monaro, and is calling on men from all walks of life to come along.

"I'm excited to be heading to Peak View. I encourage all men in the region to attend this free event," Mary said.

"It's important for men to come together. The talk I'll deliver is bulls**t free.

"The talk is not fluffy, we talk about real issues, real problems. It's bloke friendly."

Mary is a passionate advocate for agriculture and was raised on the land. She understands the diverse challenges faced by the rural sector.

"We are confronting the challenges that country men face on a daily basis, talking about mental health, and lighting the path to support," Mary said.

"You might not need help but maybe your mate or family member does. This information can help someone in your life."

'Are you bogged mate?' started when Mary submitted an opinion piece to a newspaper. This topic struck a chord, and highlighted that while there are services available for suicide prevention, there is a disconnect in the way depression is being communicated to country men.

Mary is focussed on fixing this disconnect. She said her talks will spark a conversation with most participants shocked by the number of men committing suicide.

"Most of the men I chat to are blown away by the numbers, it's quite jolting," Mary said.

Following Mary's talk, participants are invited to stay for a meal. 'Are you bogged mate?' will be at the Peak View community hall from 5.30pm on Wednesday, 19 November.

For catering, contact James and Julie Barron at peakviewrfb@gmail.com or 0421 272 920.

If you need support, contact

Lifeline 13 11 14

Rural Aid 1300 175 594.