New Chair Appointed as Healthier Illawarra Men Launches Graham Lancaster AM Scholarship

**MORE DETAILS ON HOW TO APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIP SOON**

WOLLONGONG (February 17) _ Healthier Illawarra Men (HIM) has today announced a leadership transition and the launch of a new scholarship honouring one of the Illawarra’s most respected community figures.

Former Deputy Chair Graeme Sutherland has been appointed Chair of the organisation, replacing outgoing Chairman Mark Sleigh, who will remain involved as Chair Emeritus and Partnerships Ambassador.

Mr Sleigh has guided HIM since its reformation in 2021, overseeing a period of sustained growth that has seen the organisation expand its funding and strengthen partnerships with charities aligned to its charter.

HIM’s mission is to empower men to make positive choices for their physical and mental health, and to provide them with the resources and support necessary to lead healthier lives.

Its charter commits the organisation to:

• Raising awareness of men’s health issues, including mental health.
• Promoting appropriate behaviours to help prevent domestic, family and sexual violence.

Mr Sutherland said he was honoured to step into the role at a time of growing impact.
“HIM exists to empower men to make better choices — for their own health, for their families and for the broader community,” Mr Sutherland said.

“We have strong foundations, committed partners and a clear purpose. My focus is on building on that momentum and expanding our reach across the Illawarra.”

Honouring Graham Lancaster

HIM has also launched The Graham Lancaster AM Scholarship for Outstanding Contribution to Men’s Health, recognising Mr Lancaster’s decades of philanthropy and his foundational support of the organisation.

The annual scholarship will recognise individuals under 30 who demonstrate leadership and commitment to improving men’s health or preventing domestic and family violence.

The recipient will receive a $5000 professional development scholarship — including opportunities such as attending the National Men’s Health Gathering — along with mentoring sessions with Mr Lancaster.

Mr Lancaster has been a generous supporter of numerous causes across the Illawarra for decades. He is currently fighting a well-documented health battle, yet continues to embody the resilience, humility and community spirit that have defined his contribution to the region.

“For me, this scholarship is about growing and developing the next generation of leaders to care for this community,” Mr Lancaster AM said.

“Leadership isn’t about titles or recognition. It’s about service — encouraging others to ask the right questions and find their own answers. If we can help young people step forward with that mindset, then we are investing in something far bigger than ourselves.”

Mr Sutherland said the scholarship ensures Mr Lancaster’s legacy will continue to shape future leaders.

“Graham Lancaster represents the very best of this region — service, integrity and generosity without ego,” Mr Sutherland said.
“He has supported HIM from its earliest days, and this scholarship ensures his example continues to inspire the next generation of young leaders in men’s health and violence prevention.”
“Importantly, it provides practical support — not just recognition — to young people who are stepping up to make a difference.”
Applications for the scholarship will open in the coming weeks via the Healthier Illawarra Men website, with the inaugural recipient to be announced mid-2026.

Mr Sutherland said HIM was entering another significant year, with plans to expand its partnership with Tomorrow Man across the Illawarra.
In 2025, more than 1500 young men participated in Tomorrow Man’s Breaking The Man Code workshops thanks to HIM and major supporting partner The Shellharbour Club.
The two-hour workshops provide a safe space for young men to explore gender stereotypes, emotional resilience, mental wellbeing and healthy relationships through guided discussion and interactive activities.
“The conversations happening in those workshops are powerful,” Mr Sutherland said.
“Young men want to talk. They want to understand themselves better. And they want to be part of positive cultural change.”
Any local sporting, community or educational organisations who would like to access funding for the young men in their ranks should contact HIM via its website or admin@healhtierillawarramen.org.au