Rock ‘n’ Roll Trivia Night supports male suicide prevention

Gus McAllister, owner of The Tippler & Co Bar and Eatery in East Melbourne, thinks it is time to get back into keeping existing, and starting new, connections.

“What better way to do this than a Rock ‘n’ Roll Trivia Night?” he said.

“Spring is coming, and people are getting out a bit more.”

“It is a great way to engage locally; workplaces are itching to have activities.”

On Wednesday, September 7, The Tippler & Co is hosting a fantastic Aussie rock band, HUTCH, which will keep the good vibes rolling with incredible, feel-good music interlaced with music trivia questions.

HUTCH was formed by Dr Jim Skivalidas, a chiropractor in Port Melbourne, after experiencing a life-changing event more than four years ago.

“I suffered anxiety, depression and had the thought of ending my life,” Dr Skivalidas said.

“I was one of the lucky ones that came through this, and I am passionate about every male having the opportunity to do the same.”

Music was part of the therapy program he undertook, resulting in forming the band and creating the I’m Just A Man Foundation.

The foundation raises awareness of the male suicide epidemic and builds funds for campaigns like Movember, RUOK Day and Beyond Blue.

Dr Skivalidas will MC on the night in front of Shane on bass and trivia question-maker Jason on guitar.

Mr McAllister described “Dr Jim” as a fan of the Australian music scene who treasured the music of Michael Hutchence and INXS and Hunters and Collectors.

“He has the knack of cajoling people and letting loose a bit,” Mr McAllister said.

“We need to bring communities back together; everyone will know each other by the night’s end.”

Wednesday night is the special half-price gnocchi and pasta menu at The Tipler & Co., an institution with the locals.

“Our head chef Sammie has been with us since December 2013 and has perfected the art of making gnocchi,” Mr McAllister said.

“During the lockdown, we kept our staff and regulars together by free delivery of gnocchi to their homes on e-bikes.”

Hosted in the Mural Room, the trivia show runs from 6.30pm to 8.30pm, but the good times will roll well beyond then.

Tickets are $10 each, with $5 donated to the I’m Just A Man Foundation, helping further the cause of raising awareness for men’s mental health and putting an end to the alarming rate of male suicide in Australia.

Tables of four ($40) or six ($60) can be booked, so gather the mates, rock out and contribute to a great cause. •

For more information, email [email protected]