Table 1 Aims of the three stages of study

Stage 1 - Focus Groups

   • Clarify areas of concern around physical activity, diet and body image;

   • Examine the importance of these concerns for the Indigenous men, and the extent to which they are concerned about unhealthy practices;

   • Identify factors related to these concerns (e.g., cultural identity, level of acculturation; pessimistic vs. optimistic explanatory styles); and

   • Observe healthy and unhealthy practices, and differences between the men.

Stage 2 - Individual Interviews

   • Determine the meaning and importance that Indigenous Australian men attach to their health and body;

• Understand the role of risk and protective factors in determining eating and physical activity patterns;

• Find ways of promoting healthier eating and physical activity patterns; and

   • Examine how each of the above differs in the three locations.

Stage 3 - Action and dissemination of information

   • Identify strategic points of action; ways to promote health enhancing strategies; ways to transfer knowledge back to communities; and determine future action and collaboration that is needed

   • Organise and facilitate two community events in each location

   • Assist and support Indigenous men and local Indigenous researchers to run these events

   • Assist local Indigenous men and Indigenous researchers to develop their research skills, further disseminate information, and apply for funding to continue with their specific targeted goals