Former Falcon Menshed president crowned Mandurah's newest Local Legend

Mandurah's newest Local Legend has been crowned.

Former Falcon Community Menshed president John Ellery has been recognised for his dedication to the group and his efforts in supporting men’s mental health in the community. 

John is an inaugural member of the Falcon Community Menshed which started in 2008 and, until recently, he had been the group’s President since 2016. 

John said the main aim of the Menshed was to make an inclusive environment for men to meet, create, learn, teach, and support each other, with the underlying need for men’s mental and social health. 

Prior to joining the Menshed, John was the Shire President of Mundaring from 1997 to 2001. 

Mayor Rhys Williams, a patron of the Falcon Community Menshed, said John had been pivotal in negotiations with the City of Mandurah to secure a 20-year lease for the group at the Falcon Family Centre, where they plan to build a new purpose-built facility and grow their membership. 

“John is a compassionate and effective leader who had a strong vision for the future of the Falcon Community Menshed, and ultimately supporting men’s health in our community. He’s well known for supporting those who need a friendly ear at the shed,” Mayor Williams said. 

“He led the group with integrity and a vision of increasing membership and long-term financial security. The group’s plans to expand their premises will allow them to increase their current activities and membership to support and engage even more men in the community, particularly those in their retirement years. 

“John is a true Local Legend within our community, and we thank him for all this amazing work and leadership in supporting people and making Mandurah a better place.” 

As well as his work with the Menshed, John supports men’s health and the community through other events, workshops and encouraging fellowship as a board member at Waratah Community Church.

He’s also a professional educator, teaching at local schools and sharing his knowledge with future generations.