Veteran Family Advocate Commissioner

25/03/2024

I had the privilege of attending the Commando Welfare Trust's Summer Cocktail Party, which featured an exclusive whiskey and cigar bar. This special event took place on the illustrious grounds of Sydney’s Victoria Barracks on Saturday, 23rd March 2024, offering a unique glimpse into one of the city's most esteemed venues.

A heartfelt congratulations to Paul Dunbavin for orchestrating such a memorable celebration. The night was filled with meaningful connections and shared stories, serving as a poignant reminder of the daily challenges and sacrifices faced by our defence members and their families.

I'm proud to share that all proceeds from the event will be dedicated to providing crucial financial aid to Special Forces soldiers, veterans, and their families in times of need. Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this event a success and for your continued support in honouring and assisting our heroes and their loved ones.



Commando Welfare Trust (Official Page)

25/03/2024

I encourage you to consider this great opportunity that has arisen. This is more than just a position - it's a chance to actively contribute to and make a significant impact in the Defence community.

🫵 We want you, we want you, we want you as a new recruit...

Ok so you won't exactly be sailing the seven seas, but we can offer a meaningful, flexible, part-time role.

If you are a Defence family member who is passionate about making a difference to the Defence community, we want you on our team!

We are seeking two National Delegates to represent Defence families in:

👉 Western Australia
👉 Central and Northern NSW

These appointments are part-time roles paid in accordance with the Remuneration Tribunal (Remuneration and Allowances for Holders of Part-Time Public Office) Determination 2022.

National Delegates are the heart and soul of DFA’s advocacy work, representing the families of current serving members within a set region.

The role will see you building relationships with Defence Australia representatives, Defence families and stakeholders such as Defence Member and Family Support, Toll Group, Defence Housing Australia and other Defence community groups.

This is a fantastic opportunity to make a difference in our community - the Defence family community.

Interested?

Find out more at https://dfa.org.au/join-our-team

Applications close at 12pm (AEDT) on Friday, 12 April 2024.

24/03/2024

The R U OK? Conversation Convoy has been embarking on a transformative journey across regional Australia, uniting communities with a singular, powerful question: "R U OK?"

This initiative seeks to elevate the importance of open dialogue about mental health and the profound impact that genuine concern and conversation can have on individuals.

To deepen involvement or support this crucial cause, exploring the R U OK? webpage is a great start. 🔗https://www.ruok.org.au/

It offers a detailed schedule of public events and a suite of resources aimed at strengthening community ties.

Noteworthy upcoming events include:

Pambula Beach, Saturday, 23 March, 10am-3pm: Experience "Beats By the Beach" with Headspace at Discovery Parks, 1 Pambula Beach Rd, Pambula Beach NSW 2549.

Wyndham, Sunday, 24 March, 8:30am-1pm: Join the Wyndham Markets at the corner of Clarke & Gordon Street, Wyndham, NSW 2550.

Mittagong, Wednesday, 27 March, 12pm-1:30pm: Attend the Wingecarribee Shire Council BBQ Lunch at Winifred West Park, 25 Regent St, Mittagong NSW 2575.

More than just a series of events, the R U OK? Conversation Convoy is a movement dedicated to building supportive environments where meaningful conversations about mental health are encouraged. Attendees will discover the significant role communication plays in fostering mental wellness.

R U OK? provides an extensive range of resources tailored for schools, workplaces, and communities to promote connectivity and regular, impactful conversations.

***dePrevention

R U OK?Day

23/03/2024

The impact of purchasing a Defence Kidz t-shirt extends far beyond making a fashion statement. It's a gesture of solidarity, showing these children that they are seen, valued, and supported.

A portion of every sale goes directly to supporting veteran families through contributions to Legacy Club of South Australia & Broken Hill, Legacy Australia and Invictus Australia.

Let's make a difference, one t-shirt at a time. Join me in showing these incredible kids that they're seen, appreciated, and never alone. 🌟

Psst... There are limited adult sizes too, so hurry before they're all gone!

Visit the website and grab yours now!

🔗 https://cheekylittleshop.com.au/collections/defence-kidz

22/03/2024

🎉 Veterans & First Responders BBQ Bash - Free Entry! 🎉

🌟 Whether you're part of the defence veterans or currently serving, or if you're the brave heart responding first in emergencies - this call is for YOU! Let's come together for a fantastic BBQ and a round at the bar, courtesy of the Melton RSL Sub-Branch. 🍔🍺

Who's Invited?
• Defence Veterans & Serving Members (Yes, Permanent or Reserve)
• Navy, Army, Air Force - We salute you all!
• Police, Ambulance, and Firefighters - Our everyday heroes!
• Gender & Background - No barriers, just camaraderie

What to Expect?
• A casual, friendly get-together with like-minded souls
• Delicious BBQ snags, onions, and all the fixings
• Heartfelt conversations and maybe a bit of banter 😉

Veterans, Who?
• If you've served in the military, operational theatre of war, or ensured our safety back home in Australia, you're one of us.

No Strings Attached:
• No membership required
• No geographical limits - you don't need to be from Melton to join us
• Absolutely FREE!

Come and check it out, gather, share stories, enjoy good food, and reinforce our community bonds. 🤝

📌 Mark Your Calendars:
• Veterans Drop In BBQ: Saturday, 30 March, 10:30am – 2pm

Check out and mark your calendar for other Events in Melton too!
• ANZAC Day 2024 Dawn Service: 25th April, 6:30 am
• Veterans Drop In BBQ & Veterans Scale Modelling: 25th May, 11:30 am

Spread the word, bring a friend, and let's make it a day to remember! 🌟



📸 Melton RSL Sub Branch

22/03/2024

Lauren, Veteran Families Engagement Adviser yesterday had an enriching visit to the Gallipoli Medical Research Foundation at Greenslopes Private Hospital in Brisbane.

Where she had the privilege to hear from veteran health researchers Camila Guindalini and Kelly Brown about the groundbreaking M-CARM and Go Beyond tools, designed to support the mental wellbeing of our ex-serving military personnel.

The visit included an engaging session at the Keith Payne Unit, a collaborator in this research, where we had the chance to share afternoon tea and meaningful conversations with veterans. This unit is known for its specialized mental health services, catering to veterans and war widows with a range of needs, including PTSD, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and more.

Discover more about the tools that are making a difference:
• M-CARM: https://www.m-carm.org/
• Go Beyond: https://gobeyond.org.au/

Today's experience underscored the importance of these initiatives in facilitating a smoother transition for veterans back into civilian life, and highlighted the continuous support needed for their mental health and wellbeing.

21/03/2024

🌟Attention ADF Families in South Australia!🌟

Are you navigating through the Army's structural changes and wondering about future postings?

Join an exclusive Family Information Evening hosted by 9 Brigade. Get all your questions answered and learn about the support available to you and your family.

📅 Date: Thursday, 4th April 2024
🕕 Time: 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
📍 Location: Monash Centre, RAAF Base Edinburgh

👥 A panel of key support networks will be there to assist you, including:
• Defence Member and Family Support
• Defence Families of Australia
• Defence Housing Australia
• Career Management for Army
• Transitions and Transfer Detachment
• Toll

👶 Children are welcome! A crèche service is available (please RSVP for this).
🍪 Enjoy some light refreshments on us!

✅ RSVP by 28 March! Secure your spot here: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/family-information-evening-tickets-845446251497?aff=oddtdtcreator&fbclid=IwAR219qKHfgk48_x4LjoQ8zcmYV2cVoRTNwnCJNSqTsHQyjZF1PwuKDAlVA0 or scan the QR code provided.

Need more info? Drop an email to [email protected]

Don't miss this chance to connect and get the support you need.



📸 Defence Member and Family Support

20/03/2024

Roses in the Ocean have opened the 'Safe Space for Su***de Prevention' for individuals and the wider Blue Mountains Community. If you are seeking a place for healing, connection, or resilience, this nurturing environment is now open to you.

Or if you are interested in being a volunteer please get into touch and find out more.

***dePrevention

We are pleased to announce that the Blue Mountains Safe Space for Su***de Prevention have opened their doors.

Initially, they will be opening one night a month, on the second Friday of the month. They currently have several lovely volunteers working through their training and as more volunteers come on board, they will be able to increase their opening days.

Interested in becoming a volunteer? You can find out more here: https://rosesintheocean.com.au/community-led-safe-spaces-volunteer-with-us/

20/03/2024

🧡 Celebrate diversity and unity on March 21st!

🌍 Harmony Day aligns with the United Nations' International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, championing cultural diversity and inclusivity across Australia and the globe.

Dive into Harmony Week, a time to embrace our differences and come together as Australians from all walks of life. It's about creating a welcoming environment for everyone, built on respect and a shared sense of belonging.

Wear orange to show your solidarity or take a step further by attending or hosting a Harmony Week event.

With registrations now open for 2024, it's the perfect time to get involved.

Explore the website for Harmony Week Events and join in the global effort to combat racial discrimination.

🔗https://www.harmony.gov.au/events/harmony-week-events

Not just a day of remembrance, but a call to action—March 21st is an opportunity for everyone, young and old, to contribute to a world where everyone belongs.

Let's make a difference together!

19/03/2024

🚨 Don't miss the 22 March deadline! 🚨

Applications for the Veterans SA Veterans SA Career and Business Mentoring Program have just been extended until Friday 22 March.

🚀 This program is in its third year and offers an unparalleled opportunity for current and former Australian Defence Force (ADF) members, Reservists, and Defence partners. Dive into a journey of professional growth and networking across the South Australian business landscape.

📈 Choose your path: Career and Skills Development or Entrepreneurship and Business Development. Each stream is packed with networking sessions, workshops, and the chance to connect with industry leaders and program alumni.

🤝 They are also on the lookout for mentors! Share your wisdom and expertise to help participants unlock their true potential. This year, we've amped up the program based on your feedback, introducing monthly online workshops featuring expert speakers on topics like career transition, finding purpose, and more.

🗣️ Hear it from Chantelle Bohan, Veterans SA Director: "This year’s enhancements are set to offer even more valuable opportunities for participants to connect and learn. We're thrilled to connect veterans with South Australia's business leaders and eager to see the successes this year will bring."

📅 Program Duration: April to November 2024.

🔗 Want more details? Visit veteranssa.sa.gov.au/mentoring-program to apply or learn more about how you can be a part of this transformative experience.

19/03/2024

Your voice and feedback is crucial in shaping the future of Strategic Aims and Outcomes for Veterans in South Australia.

Why not check it out today.

🗣 Your voice matters!

Veterans SA is seeking your valuable feedback to help shape our Strategic Aims and Outcomes for 2024/2025.

If you have transitioned from the ADF in the last five years, are a partner of a current/former serving ADF member, or a partner in the teaching profession, we want to hear from you!

Visit the Veterans SA website to explore the various consultation opportunities and have your say today 👉 https://bit.ly/3TFD0Z4

19/03/2024

🌟 Discover ANZAC House: A Community Beacon for Perth’s Veterans & Families in Australia 🌟

At the heart of the Perth community lies ANZAC House, more than just a structure; it's a haven dedicated to supporting & respecting our veterans & their families. This multi-faceted centre is home to an array of services designed to cater to the diverse needs of those who've served our nation.

The Returned & Services League of Western Australia (RSLWA ) is instrumental in this mission, providing crucial services including advocacy, transition support, employment assistance, & welfare aid. Their dedication enriches the lives within the veteran community, offering a solid foundation for support & connection.

🏠 A Journey Through ANZAC House:
Ground Floor: Begin with a warm greeting at Reception, enjoy Café treats, & join Karrakatta Club meetings.
First Floor: Discover the vibrant ANZAC Club.
Second Floor: Access comprehensive care including Dental, Mental Health, Counselling, Aged Care, & more.
Third Floor: Meet with expert Medical Practitioners for holistic health & wellness.
Fourth Floor: Navigate life after service with Advocacy, Employment & Welfare Assistance.
Fifth to Seventh Floors: Host your events in our elegant Function Rooms.

🌿 RSL ACTIVE: Connecting Veteran Families: RSL ACTIVE is your gateway to a community of fellow veteran families in Western Australia. Engage in a variety of events & activities, from kickboxing to yoga, designed to ease your transition back to civilian life while fostering connections & fun.

🎉 Exciting Activities:
Rock Climbing at Adrenaline Vault: Master climbing techniques over a four-week course.
Wheel-Work at ClayMake Studio: Dive into pottery with a class perfect for beginners on 23 March 2024.
Photography & Coffee: Join ex-Army photographer Karl Fehlauer for a workshop at ANZAC House on 28 March 2024.
Online Mindfulness Sessions: Experience guided breathing & meditation for stress relief.
Online & In-person Yoga: Embrace yoga's fundamental principles through our accessible programs.
Equine Assisted Learning at Equinnect: Explore self-awareness & confidence with horse-assisted learning.
RSLWA Bowls Events & Sailing On at South Perth Yacht Club: Participate in lawn bowls or learn sailing skills.

Explore the comprehensive offerings of ANZAC house today!




📸RSLWA