An annual Zumba fundraiser supporting the Black Dog Institute is back this month, led entirely by male instructors to raise awareness of men’s mental health.
The MIB event is scheduled for 13 June at Albany Hills State School to coincide with Men’s Health Week.
Event organiser Jake Cook, owner and leader at Dayboro Fitness Classes, said the event served as a reminder to check in on family, friends and mates, and to open up conversations around wellbeing.
“The team are a group of like-minded individuals who believe that we can change the stigma of men’s health, one joyous dance at a time,” Jake said. “The event is quite unique, where it’s presented by all-male identifying instructors – there is no event like it on the Zumba calendar. I am also an accredited mental health first aider, so this cause and this organisation are both very close to my heart.
Community, Fitness and Mental Health
“There is still such a hesitation to talk about feelings amongst men and boys, even when it could make all the difference to a person.
“It’s important to remember that we are all human; there are people around us who care that we can lean on and talk to. We want the MIB event to be a place where you can feel good and let loose for an hour and a half, without any kind of judgment.
“If we can make just one person leave feeling better than when they walked in through a fun dance event, then that’s a win!”
This year’s event will feature its largest instructor line-up to date, including Australia and New Zealand’s male Zumba Education Specialist, Jarrod Tucker.
Guests are encouraged to dress in white and neon to match this year’s theme – GLOW – with the venue set to be lit by UV blacklights. Jake said attendees could expect lots of whoops, singing and dancing.
“A Zumba Fitness class is something that absolutely anybody can join,” he said. “It’s Latin and international rhythms paired with easy-to-follow choreography – a real party! A fundraising event or masterclass, such as MIB 2026, is like a regular Zumba class experience, but bigger, louder, and so incredibly fun.
“We are hoping to raise $4500 for the Black Dog Institute through event tickets and proceeds of a raffle. The BDI does absolutely wonderful things in research and programs, and we’re happy to support their mission!”
Zumbashop Australia will be selling Zumbawear merchandise. Raffle tickets will be available for $5 each or three for $10.
Tickets start at $30. Book your spots here.
MIB 2026
- Saturday, 13 June, 6pm-7.30pm
- Albany Hills State School (Main Hall)
- Keong Road, Albany Creek
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