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 musician and ceremonialist Miguel Rivera—alongside Australian contributors such as Asher Packman (more speakers to be announced soon).

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 3-6 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.