A free walk from Sandgate Pool to Shorncliffe Pier is giving Brisbane’s dads, sons, brothers, uncles and granddads a gentle way to catch up with other men.
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Kings Walk is the name, and the group’s motto says “kings do not walk alone”. Organisers describe it as support for men’s mental health, connection and brotherhood. It costs nothing, has no formal program and needs no sign-up. It is an informal peer gathering, not a counselling or clinical service.
Walkers meet at 5 a.m. every Saturday at Sandgate Pool, formally the Sandgate Aquatic Centre on Flinders Parade. According to Brisbane City Council, the pool itself does not open to swimmers until 6 a.m. on Saturdays, so this is an early meet-up rather than a swim session. At 5:15 a.m. the group sets off for Shorncliffe Pier and back. Local route guides put the return trip at roughly 5 to 6 kilometres. Organisers say most mornings wrap up by 6:30 a.m., and they aim to have men home by 7 a.m., in time for kids’ sport and other weekend plans.
Some mornings the conversation stays light. Other mornings it carries more weight. Organisers say there is comfort in starting the weekend next to men who share similar pressures and responsibilities. They also say nobody is judged, egos stay at home and no one gets left behind. The group describes the walks as a way to look out for mates through the good days and the hard ones.
One local resident, commenting on the group’s online post, called the idea much needed. The commenter said women in online mothers’ groups often write about how hard it is for their husbands to make new friends. The same comment asked whether the group might hold a later catch-up for men who are not early risers. Two other commenters also responded. One said they would be there at 5 a.m., and the other said they hoped to make it. The post’s author replied to both with encouragement.
So what does it take to join? Very little. Men can turn up at Sandgate Pool on a Saturday, and organisers encourage them to bring a mate who might benefit. Anyone with a question beforehand can email kingswalk100@gmail.com, though the group says that is optional. Organisers describe turning up as the first step, and something a man does for himself.
The walk is not a crisis service. Anyone who is struggling can call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or the Beyond Blue support service on 1300 224 636. In an emergency, call triple zero (000).
Published Date 22-October-2026
