In partnership with The Fifth Direction, and for the first time since its inception in 1984, the Minnesota Men’s Conference (MMC) will gather beyond US borders and make its way to Australia.

Set in a retreat-style environment, this landmark four-day event brings together keynote voices from the US, including storytellers Walton Stanley and Ben Dennis, poet Timothy Young and ceremonialist Miguel Rivera—alongside Australian speakers Steve Biddulph AM (joining virtually) and former head of Meditation Australia, Asher Packman. Also facilitating are Rites of Passage Institute CEO, Mikey Ellis, as well as musician Dingo Spender, poet/storyteller Leon Cossar and indigenous dance artist Waangenga Blanco, all of whom are steeped in the mythopoetic tradition of men's work.

Held in the spirit of story, soul, depth and community, it also honours the centenary of poet and activist Robert Bly, who would be 100 this year. As MMC founder, Bly's work sparked a movement of men seeking a deeper, more grounded way of being.

From Minnesota’s Iron Range to the red-stained earth of Australia, these two ancient landscapes are joined by the element of iron as both mineral and metaphor. This is a fitting bridge for a gathering shaped by the enduring legacy of Iron John, Bly's classic text that called so many men toward soul.

This will be a rare and memorable gathering for men of all ages and stages, offering space for honest conversation, ritual, reflection and renewal—the kind of fellowship that helps a man remember what matters in these troubled times.

MMC Australia: Iron Earth, Iron Soul is being held from September 10-13 at the Regenerative Training Centre just outside of Woodford in Queensland. Accommodation is shared dormitory style, or if you'd prefer to sleep under the stars, you're welcome to bring your own camping gear.

All meals are beautifully catered using mostly organic, locally sourced produce. From afternoon tea and dinner on day one through to three full meals a day, plus plenty of snacks, tea and great coffee—you'll be well looked after.

NOTES:

Men must be 18-years-old or above, unless attending alongside their father, in which case the lower age limit is 15. In the spirit of the gathering, we wholeheartedly encourage father-son attendance and offer 2-for-1 ticketing arrangements. Please message us for details.

A form will be sent to you soon after your ticket purchase asking for details like transport, accommodation and dietary requirements so we can make the best arrangements.

Early bird pricing ends on June 30 (We've now extended it to midnight on Sunday, July 5!)

Contact the host of Iron Earth, Iron Soul: The First Australian Minnesota Men's Conference