Men’s Health Week 2020 – Yarning with IAHA Member Gabe Oath (Sports Science)

1. Who’s ya mob, where ya from and what are you studying/what did you graduate from?

I am a Mualgal marn from Moa Island on my Aka’s (grandmother) side and a Meriam marn from Mer (Murray Island) on my Athe’s (grandfather) side. I grew up in Townsville, North Queensland on Bindal and Wulgurukaba country. I graduated with a Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science at Charles Darwin University.

2. Who were male role models or mentor growing up and why?

My male role models are my Athe’s, I had the privilege to be raised by these men on hard work, culture and providing for our family; especially during cultural events. My male mentors are my older cousins who raised me as their little brother giving me the ‘tough love’ treatment which helped shape me into the man I am today. The connection between my Athe’s and older cousins is that they pass down their knowledge, culture and experiences to me to prepare me for manhood.

3. Dealing with COVID-19, what are some positive coping strategies you have picked up during this time to maintain your health and wellbeing?

My first instinct when Covid-19 was in full effect was movement, my Exercise Science background has taught me the importance of movement in the human body for the brain. The brain functions efficiently when performing aerobic type exercises such as walking and running because the body pumps more blood to the brain which increases performance in working memory.

4. What positive message(s) would you like to share for our Deadly Indigenous Men and Fellas for Men’s Health Week?

Don’t be shame to talk about how you’re feeling, I know most us feel shame job or you think you feel soft, but it is the biggest relief off your chest when you tell a person how you feeling. Speak up and talk about what is going on in your life. Lastly, I just want to say that movement is medicine! Mental wellness is so important so becoming more active in everyday life rather than you are increasing your cognitive activity (brain).