Andrew Whitehead - Senior Facilitator

Working with hundreds of men as facilitator, assessor and counsellor for the better part of a decade, specialising in the field of Men’s Behavioural Change and focusing on relationships noting the consequences of Domestic, Family and Gendered Violence, and contrary to popular attitudes around parts of the sector , my passion for this has confirmed to me that men can definitely change their well-honed modelled negative and impactful  behaviours. My motivation is to help fill some of the overwhelming need for men to be accountable for the ever-increasing abuse perpetrated against others.                                                                      Having said that, this relies on the client/participant genuinely being open to engage in receiving presented content and genuinely self-inspired to have the self-discipline to apply the changes thus create a positive ripple effect on all that exist in their lives.

It needs to be also noted, that if you think this can happen in a matter of a few weeks, and that the approaches facilitated will somehow be cemented and need no further focus or practice to replace old behaviours, your expectations will reside in disappointment. Changing behaviours that have been modelled and supported via misogynistic teachings and toxic views, much past down generationally and supported by peer confirmation, changing approaches and behaviour needs a genuine level of commitment that includes ownership, acceptance of past behaviours, empathy for the affected, honesty, integrity and a deep desire to continue to cement the change that will bring profound results. This therefore is up to the person who seeks the change, resisting and the need to hold on to old behaviours and attitudes that are thought essential, will simply slow down the process, or indeed withhold the ability for success, this too, I have witnessed.

My passions and approaches reside too, with Men’s Behavioural Change as there is overwhelming evidence that the majority of Domestic, Family and Gendered Violence lies at the feet of men. Having said that, I do consider that this is a human issue, and all of us should be aware and be part of the process of changing these behaviours.

I am honoured to be a member of the Team at Heavy M.E.T.A.L. Group, this organisation is unique in the field of behavioural change and have been at the forefront for over 20 years, confirmed by participants that have experienced other organisations and programmes and the limits they have. Heavy M.E.T.A.L. Group allow these men who attend, to delve deep into previous cemented approaches and offers them a space to flourish and hold a torch high for others that also need to be guided to change should the desire to do so be strong.

I also appreciate that other organisations have a contributory effect regardless of limitations and that we all respect the work done by all, and it goes without saying, society could do with more.

Judith Szucs

I feel joyful and energised when I can liberate others from the limitations of their current perspective. These limiting perspectives can cause other symptoms, both medical and psychological. Freeing people of these and removing unhelpful body memories can lead to empowerment and increased self-awareness.

I am a qualified counsellor, registered Level 4 membership with Australian Counselling Association. I am also a member of the College of Clinical Supervisors. 

I provide an interagency service for the women and children whose partner has engaged in the Heavy M.E.T.A.L program with the goal to empower women to improve the quality of their lives and fulfill their potential.

Raising five children using alternative natural medicines and working within the disability field for many years has provided me with a wide range of experiences and a unique philosophy of life.

My passion is facilitating transformation through supporting and coaching clients in discovering the core issues that are creating their pain. I also work to help my clients uncover any addictions they may be fostering, whether emotionally or physically, as well as any other reasons that may leave them feeling unwell.

I use empathy, compassion and good humour to help clients address challenges that may be confronting and help them to become free of these challenges. I love helping them to reach their potential and purpose and to achieve an overall sense of wellbeing.

My centred healing approach counteracts stress, anxiety, depression and aches and pains. This method releases endorphins which offers relief using natural mood-altering hormones, creating a sense of nurturing and self-acceptance.

My intentions in therapy are to facilitate healing through the release of negative emotions and to enhance self-esteem, confidence and self-acceptance by raising a client’s self-awareness. Achieving harmony between behaviour and emotions is the desired result as this gives my clients a solid foundation to work from in order to reach their goals.

  Leanne Quarroz

My Mission: Transforming Lives Through Compassionate Change. 

I am profoundly dedicated to guiding men in breaking free from the cycles of violence and control. Every man deserves to be heard and to express his needs in healthy, constructive ways.

My counselling journey began with a deep commitment to empower men to lead lives filled with happiness, authenticity, and peace. As a registered counsellor, educator, and co-facilitator at Heavy M.E.T.A.L, I am privileged to support men using David Nugent's proven program, helping them strive to become better versions of themselves—for their own sake, for their families, and for the greater community.

I believe that violence often stems from unresolved pain; it is perpetuated only when it has first been inflicted upon oneself. The Heavy M.E.T.A.L. programs are specifically designed to disrupt these damaging cycles and facilitate healing from past traumas and toxic behaviours that burden men.

In my practice, I embrace a non-judgmental, trauma-informed approach, creating a safe space where men are not afraid to embrace their vulnerability to create healthier relationships and connections— something that many men are yearning for.

Together, we can illuminate the path to a brighter, more fulfilling future for all.

 Mark Tridgell

Seven years ago, my life felt like it was falling apart. My abusive behaviour had brought my relationship to the edge, and I was on the verge of losing my partner and everything I cared about. That’s when I found the Heavy M.E.T.A.L. program. Joining felt like a leap into the unknown, but it quickly became apparent that this was no ordinary men’s behaviour change program. It offered so much more than the box-ticking approach of typical government programs. It wasn’t just about meeting requirements but about fundamental, lasting transformation.

David Nugent, the founder of Heavy M.E.T.A.L., played a big part in why I stuck with it. His no-nonsense approach, wealth of knowledge, and lived experience resonated with me. David tells it how it is, and his honesty challenged me in ways I desperately needed. I admire his ability to cut through the excuses while supporting and inspiring growth. Under his guidance, it wasn’t about blame or shame but ownership, accountability, and change. That approach completely shifted my perspective.

The program pushed me out of my comfort zone as best as possible. I completed every phase, attended the weekend Masterclass Workshops, and faced parts of myself I had avoided for years. It wasn’t easy, but through the process, I changed my behaviour and redefined how I lived my life. I repaired my relationship with my partner, rebuilding trust and communication, and I learned how to connect with others on a deeper level. Looking back, this program saved my relationship and transformed my life.

My experience with Heavy M.E.T.A.L. inspired me to give back to the program. Recognising my growth, David invited me to become a Peer Facilitator in 2021. Today, I am privileged to guide other men as they start their change journeys. I know firsthand how tough it can be to take that first step, and I share my story to show that there’s hope on the other side. My role is to mentor, empathise, and encourage. Nothing is more rewarding than seeing men have that moment of realisation—that they can change and, even more importantly, want to. That moment is powerful and inspiring, both for them and for me.

If you’re reading this and unsure about taking that first step, my message is simple: You won’t regret it. This program is different. It’s honest, it’s tough, but it’s worth it. I’ve been in doubt, but stepping into this program was the best decision ever. You don’t have to do it alone; the support here is unmatched. If you’re ready to make a change, Heavy M.E.T.A.L. can give you the tools, the guidance, and the chance to build a better future—for yourself and the people you love.

Being part of this program, first as a participant and now as a Peer Facilitator, has shaped my life in ways I never imagined. I’m proud of the man I’ve become and am grateful daily to help others take that same courageous step forward.

Change is possible, and it starts here. Take the step. It’s worth it.