Soldier On Autumn 2024

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Canberra.

CONTENTS

National Gala celebration and vital fundraising in our capital. CELEBRATION OF RESILIENCE

AN ONGOING LEGACY

The Walking for Waide team Marches On in honour of those lost.

Synergy Group continues to provide multifaceted support for veterans and their families.

A NEW MISSION

Veterans find new meaning in roles with Pledge Partner Stryker.

A moving new tribute is unveiled at the Australian War Memorial. FOR EVERY DROP SHED IN

A reception at Government House was a chance to reflect and look ahead.

ABOUT US

Get in touch

Ph: 1300 620 380

Email: getsupport@soldieron.org.au

As a national charity, we support more than 11,000 veterans and their family members through our Health and Wellbeing services, Employment Support, Learning and Education Programs, as well as Participation and Social Connection activities. Our services help individuals build resilience and create meaningful connections with family, community and employers. These programs are made possible through the generous support of the Australian Community, the Australian Government through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and our Corporate Partners.

Soldier On is a leader in supporting those who have served and continue to serve in the Australian Defence Force. With an exemplary track record of providing practical and emotional assistance critical to building successful post-service lives, Soldier On is recognised as an essential first port of call for veterans and their families as they transition from the Defence Force to civilian life.

Veteran and advocate Pennie Looker talks about For Every Drop Shed in Anguish

Butcher Ray Wood’s new initiative to support Soldier On.

AWM Director Matt Anderson on commemorating our contemporary veterans.

Our incredible supporter community completes another massive March On challenge.

Aurecon’s Karen Gallacher tells us what makes them an employer of choice for veterans.

ADVERTISING

Advertisements in this journal are solicited from organisations and businesses on the understanding that no special considerations other than those normally accepted in respect of commercial dealings, will be given to any advertiser. Advertising funds the production, print and distribution of this journal, allowing Soldier On to get the word out. Countrywide Austral adheres to stringent ethical advertising practices and any advertising inquiries should be directed to:

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what the Soldier On team has been up to around the country.

David Whittaker

FROM THE TOP

We’ve packed a great deal into the first quarter of 2024!

In February, members of the Soldier On team and I attended the dedication ceremony at the Australian War Memorial of a new Memorial sculpture recognising the sufferings of war and service experienced by many veterans and their families. It was the culmination of years of work from many dedicated individuals. I was honoured to sit on the Stakeholder Committee for this project, which signifies an important step forward towards acknowledging the ongoing impact of service on so many Australians. Our largest fundraising event of the year, March On, has also been a huge focus for us. The campaign saw 6,885 incredible participants walk or run more than half a million kilometres, volunteering their time and effort to raising funds for veteran mental health and suicide prevention. To everyone who took part or donated, I extend a huge thank you. You have made a real impact in the lives of our veteran community.

Our National Gala Ball was held on 5 April, and we are so grateful for the tremendous commitment and generosity of Synergy Group and our amazing sponsors and community that made it possible. All funds raised at this event go towards our vital veteran support services, helping us to enable more serving and ex-serving ADF members and their families to thrive.

We’re pleased to share stories from these activities in this issue of our journal.

Next, we are preparing with the Australian community to commemorate ANZAC Day. As a national charity that supports contemporary veterans and their families – but is also made up of many veterans and family members of service personnel and veterans –ANZAC Day is an important occasion for us to reflect on the experiences of those who have gone before us, as well as our own. It’s a chance to pay tribute to comrades, friends,

and loved ones we have lost as a result of their service, both long ago and recently. As part of these tributes, we would this year like to invite you to contribute to our online Wall of Honour, by sharing a photo of a family member, friends, or other loved ones that you will be remembering this ANZAC Day. Alternatively, we’d love people to share photos of the many local war memorials located around Australia. This ANZAC Day, we want to honour all veterans of the past, while we work to support those with us now and into the future.

Amy Cooper, CEO

CELEBRATION OF RESILIENCE

PL ATINUM

CHAMPAGNE BAR

SILVER

GIF T

CORPOR ATE

E VENT PARTNERS

The theme for our National Gala Ball held in Canberra on 5 April was resilience, but we didn’t expect the elements to test ours quite so much! Despite torrential rain that resulted in unwelcome puddles on the stage and a brief power outage, the event was a smashing success, with almost 500 members of our Soldier On community coming together in celebration and support of our charity and our veterans.

With Master of Ceremonies Hugh Riminton at the helm, the guests heard from a number of notable speakers. ACT Minister for Community Services, Seniors and Veterans Emma Davidson delivered an Acknowledgment of Country, powerhouse Soldier On Ambassador Dr Bec Jackson read the Veterans’ Covenant, and The Honourable Matt Thistlethwaite MP, Assistant Minister for Veterans’

commitment to nurturing and applying the capabilities

he said, “around 30% of our veterans remain unemployed or underemployed in a jobs market chronically short of the

“With a separation rate of over 5500 personnel each year, it behoves us all to address this as a matter of urgency. It goes to the heart of to building national resiliency during a period of growing geostrategic uncertainty in our region.”

Synergy Group is a longtime valued supporter of our charity, with many shared values. Michael spoke about the vital importance of providing support for veterans as they transition out of their ADF career.

“In the words of those that have been helped by Soldier On, ‘Soldier On saves lives’,” said Michael. “ [It] does this in part by showing how a life of service can represent a point of transition, rather than a conclusion. Or to put it another way: the end of one chapter is not the end of a story.”

“As a veteran myself, this has real meaning.”

Our esteemed keynote speaker was the Ambassador for Ukraine to Australia, Vasyl Myroshnychenko. He delivered a powerful address about the resilience displayed by his country and its people over the past two years of war. The number of Ukrainian veterans linked to the conflict with Russia is already over a million. The sustainable reintegration of these veterans into civilian life is already a concern for Ukraine, with the country looking to organisations like Soldier On for their expert advice on veteran transition support.

Our mission is to enable veterans and their family members to thrive during their service, in the period of transition out of it and into a positive civilian future through our support services. Events such as this raise vital funds for us to continue that important work. Thank you to all

sites

$70,000

80% of our Helicopters team are Veterans government.defence@tollgroup.com www.tollgroup.com/industries/government-defence

4,971 into-base deliveries last year

RESILIENCE IN ACTION

From Gala Balls to mountain peaks, Synergy Group continues to pave the way as a Platinum Pledge Partner through multifaceted support for veterans and their families.

CHAMPIONING RESILIENCE AT THE NATIONAL GALA BALL

Each year, Synergy Group continues to demonstrate their unwavering commitment to our mission of empowering veterans and their families to thrive. The fortifying partnership between Synergy Group and Soldier On is founded on shared values, recognising the remarkable contributions veterans bring to the workforce. In the most recent example of their support, Synergy Group was the generous Platinum Sponsor for our National Gala Ball for the second year in a row, hosted at the National Arboretum in Canberra on Friday 5 April.

With Resilience as the theme of this year’s event, Synergy Group was a perfectly aligned sponsor. The concept of resilience resonates deeply with Synergy Group's work in the Defence industry and its ongoing support for the veteran community.

“As exemplified by the challenges presented by COVID-19, resilience has emerged as a crucial lesson for businesses, necessitating a shift in priorities to ensure success,” says Synergy Group’s CEO Rob Kennedy.

“In today's digital age, where personal needs are often met with the touch of a screen, resilience isn't innate for many individuals and requires cultivation.”

Synergy Group’s commitment to fostering resilience within its workforce and the broader community is a key shared value with Soldier On, which aims to foster resilience in its participants to enable them to thrive.

MARCHING ON WITH SYNERGY GROUP

At Soldier On, it is our privilege to work alongside values-driven organisations like Synergy Group who continually strive to make positive impact in our veteran community through ongoing support of our programs and initiatives. With a core value at Synergy Group

being ‘Act As One’, we’ve seen their team walk the talk again this year as they united for another March On challenge, raising vital funds that go directly towards preventing veteran suicide.

So, what exactly enables Synergy Group to drive such powerful impact through their corporate social responsibility?

The answer: their people.

Loughlin Gould, a manager at Synergy Group, has a personal connection to the military. “Growing up in a military family, I've always had a strong connection and understanding of the importance of the work current and former service people do,” he says. “I also understand the impacts that their service has on them, especially as they transition out of the world they have known for so long. They are exposed to situations that can leave lasting scars, and it is integral that we, as a society, provide the platform for them to transition smoothly into

 continued on page 12

civilian life. Soldier On supports this process, providing support and guidance to those in need, and filling the current gap in the military experience.”

Loughlin and his partner, Ashlee, embarked on an epic journey in Nepal last year, conquering the Three Passes trek and the Jiri to Namche Bazaar trek as part of their March On challenge. Now, for the second consecutive year, Loughlin remains dedicated to displaying the shared values that unite our two organisations.

“March On is a way to build awareness for the amazing work Soldier On is doing and raising much needed funds to help support those in need,” he says. “I believe in giving of yourself for a cause, and love the principle of March On, letting fundraisers push themselves and their limits, a lot like those they are raising funds for. This is why I take part in March On for Soldier On.”

During March, various teams at Synergy Group came together to tackle the challenge in diverse ways. One group trekked more than 26 kilometres along the Main Range Walk in Kosciuszko National Park, while the Running for Resilience team met every Wednesday to circle the Kingston dock in Canberra. Another group ventured to the Murramarang South Coast, embarking from Pretty Beach and covering

approximately 34 kilometres southward to Maloney's Beach. The involvement of Synergy Group team members in March On underscores a workplace culture that prioritises community engagement and social responsibility.

“Our approach to veterans and their families has been direct and personal for a long time and has been progressively refined to meet the challenges of their changing needs,” says Rob Kennedy.

“The growing maturity of Soldier On means that we have been able to align our corporate and fundraising programmes more closely with Soldier On.”

IN THEIR WORDS

“It’s a small ask to sign up and commit to the March On challenge. Our veterans sacrifice so much to serve our country and protect all of us so we can continue to live safely and happily –they are posted away from their roots, away from family and often don’t stay in one place long enough to form new roots. Also, our serving members are sent into conflict and recovery zones, often exposed to horrific and scary situations, risking their lives for others and far bigger outcomes. Naturally, these things can really take its toll on our veterans and their families. They are heroes, courageously doing what many of us would not commit

to do, and there is a duty on us to look after them.” - Mandy Hill, a Partner at Synergy Group.

“As a veteran on a mental health recovery journey, connecting with wonderful people, whilst doing something worthwhile, positively contributes to healing. Undertaking significant kilometres to not only mirror those covered by our soldiers at Kokoda, but the connections they made with each other is so meaningful and remains a positive and impactful legacy. Thank you to those who have served, and to my wonderful Synergy Group colleagues for the support throughout our walk.” - Belinda Needs, a Senior Manager at Synergy Group

“As someone with family members in the Defence community, I recognise the importance of mental health transparency. Our veterans are vulnerable to suicide due to the sacrificial nature of their work. I ran 96km in the month of March, symbolising the Kokoda Track, to raise money for mental health services that support families and save lives.” - Catherine Hill, a Tenders Officer at Synergy Group

“The Challenge provides an opportunity for our team to come together to challenge ourselves while raising money in the name of a great cause.”Michael Mahy, a Partner at Synergy Group

FOR EVERY DROP SHED IN ANGUISH

At a solemn public ceremony on February 22, 2024, a touching tribute was unveiled at the Australian War Memorial.

For Every Drop Shed in Anguish, a new sculpture by artist Alex Seton, was officially dedicated at the ceremony within the Sculpture Garden at the Australian War Memorial (AWM), created to commemorate the suffering borne by all of those who have been touched by war and military service, the sculpture consists of 18 large droplets crafted from Queensland Australian Pearl Marble. The droplets, each naturally uniquely coloured with crystalline patterns, intricate veins of deep red iron-oxide, and bands of grey, blue, and yellow, represent the sacrifices made by our servicemen and women and their loved ones – the droplets of blood, sweat, and tears shed in connection with service. This open and accessible space is designed to be one of solace and reflection for veterans, their friends, families, and the Australian community. Crafted by artist Alex Seton, the sculpture is a result of the collaborative effort between the Memorial, veterans, and their families and loved ones. It was conceived of and created in consultation with a dedicated Stakeholder Committee, which included

Soldier On CEO, Amy Cooper.

The committee worked closely with Seton to ensure the sculpture embodies the anguish experienced by those impacted by military operations and training, whether in times of conflict or in moments of peace.

“This sculpture highlights an important shift in our national awareness around the unseen toll of service,” Amy says. “While traditional memorials rightly honour those who gave their

lives in service, this shines a light on the often-overlooked survivors grappling with both visible and invisible wounds of war.”

More contemporary Australian veterans have died by suicide than were killed in active service during both the Iraq and Afghanistan recent conflicts, with countless others bearing unseen scars from their service. With the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide due to hand down

 Photo credit: courtesy of the Australian War Memorial.

its final report later this year, there is hope and expectation that real and vital changes will be made to address this tragedy.

Speaking at the sculpture’s dedication ceremony, Soldier On Ambassador Ben Farinazzo, also a veteran and member of the Stakeholder Committee, clearly stated the important purpose the statue serves at the AWM.

“We will remember them, that’s what we say,” he said. “Yet many feel forgotten.”

“Those with ringing ears, choking chests, missing limbs, acquired brain injuries, strokes, broken bones, and blown-up bodies. Living with the knowledge that many these scars will serve as constant reminders of discomfort, disfigurement, and pain… we acknowledge you. This sculpture serves to remind us that you are not forgotten.”

Another member of the Stakeholder Committee was Dr Karen Bird, mother of veteran Jesse Bird, who died by suicide. She also made a powerful speech at the ceremony and is

adamant the sculpture must serve as a reminder in more ways than one. “War and service can and does have consequences,” she said. “And it does come home. The human toll is all around us, in front of our eyes; this struggle is finally recognised but it remains ongoing. For as long as the flux and woe of human frailty returns us to war to settle out petty differences and competing interest, we, as a nation will be required to account for those who so freely sign a Defence service contract and we place in harm’s way in our name… For Every Drop Shed in Aguish will be a constant reminder to us all of that responsibility…”

Artist Alex Seton is no stranger to the weight of crafting art with such a poignant message. His work As of today… is a series of sculptures that line a hallway in the War Memorial’s galleries. Made up of 47 folded flags carved from marble, As of today… commemorates the Australian soldiers who have lost their lives due to Operation Slipper in Afghanistan. Even so, he was struck by the responsibility his new sculpture would bear.

“The brief was at first incredibly daunting,” he said, “hearing of the many stories of loved ones with injuries and wounds, of those with ongoing physical and mental trauma, of those that still struggle and are slowly healing, and for their many carers, family and loved ones.”

“There are far too many who have lost a loved one to suicide. It was deeply intimidating, like it was almost far too much for one artwork to hold. That service comes with an enormous cost – a cost that hasn’t been acknowledged enough. And then what struck me was the blood, sweat and tears present in each and every one of those stories.”

It was from this realisation that For Every Drop Shed in Anguish began to take form. “Not a heroic singular monument, but a grouping,” Alex explained, “a family of droplets spread on the grass, a place to be walked amongst.”

“The fact that you can touch these gentle droplet forms and find that they are hard marble hopefully can provide at least a promise of healing.”

 Photo credit: courtesy of the Australian War Memorial.

INSPIRING POSITIVE CHANGE

From sergeant in the Australian Army Psychology Corps to tireless advocate for veterans and their families' well-being, Pennie Looker was the perfect candidate to contribute as a member of the Stakeholder Committee for this important new sculpture.

Pennie served in the Army for 19 years before her medical discharge in 2015. During her service, she deployed three times to the Solomon Islands and East Timor, experiencing firsthand the sufferings and sacrifices of military life. Pennie's commitment to mental health support is evident in her extensive professional qualifications, including a Bachelor of Science with a major in Psychology, training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, and certification as a suicide intervention and prevention trainer. Beyond her clinical duties, while serving she played a crucial role in troop screening processes, critical incident responses, and suicide interventions.

Pennie also has her own journey with mental health challenges, including her struggle with symptoms of PTSD and subsequent discharge from the Army, which further fuelled her passion for destigmatising mental health and advocating for systemic change. Her advocacy work embodies her commitment to creating a more supportive and inclusive environment for veterans and their families.

We spoke to her about the significance of For Every Drop Shed in Anguish

How does this space at the Australian War Memorial resonate with you?

The space is somewhat magical in that it is open to our own interpretation and meaning we find.

For example, I find real beauty in the appearance of the droplets which are not the perfect pieces but the seconds. The beauty is in the imperfections. The veining is representative of the blood that has been shed by so many, the cloud-like features speak to me of the hard times where it feels like everything is so heavy and impossible that there is no way out, but then the glimmers of the beautiful crystals through the veining and the clouds is like a beautiful glimmer of hope that things will get better. The shape of the droplets is really impactful as well. For some it could be representative of the sweat of hard work, training and fulfilling career goals; for others, it could be representative of the tears shed at the loss of a loved one, the loss of a career or the heartache they have felt. I've noticed for some that who have been to see it, they found a place to be thankful for a career they are proud of as well. It is a space that really is there for everyone, no matter when or where you served, no matter if you are a veteran or the family or friend of a veteran. The real raw beauty of this is that it speaks to each of us in our own way.

One of the most impactful things for me has been the sheer size of the piece. Alex Seton and his team worked tirelessly to make sure every droplet was placed just right and had the space filled but not crowded, just perfectly and imperfectly meaningful. One of the things we really wanted to address was the impact of war and service have had on those who have died by suicide. The scale of the piece means that you can't miss it, you can see it from the road as you drive by. Each droplet is unique but large enough to speak volumes. Together, they speak to the scale of the issues that veterans and families face and the impact that this has on their lives. Having the droplets sprawled out across the space speaks to how widespread the effect of losing our veterans becomes

in our community. It's really an important aspect that we needed to make sure was addressed and talked about rather than being something to hide.

The space allows for open conversation about suicide and how it has affected each person individually. Making sure that it is a safe space was so important, which is why the QR codes are located around the seating areas under the trees and on the plaque so that there are details for who to contact if you need support, but also being in a space that is filled with the rustling of the trees, the birds singing and the aspect of the droplets changing as the day passes, just as we do, helps to make it a safe place that welcomes everyone.

Can you tell us about your experience serving on the Stakeholder Committee for this project?

Being on the Stakeholder Committee was a cathartic experience in some ways. It wasn't always easy as we did not always all agree on everything, but the one thing we did all agree on was that we as a community needed this and we needed to take the steps to make a difference to all those who have felt like they had nowhere to go or were not seen. It was challenging to all of us at times, I think, as we each spoke from our personal experiences and really poured our hearts and souls into this, wanting to make sure we did justice to all the veteran and veteran family community. We were all certainly blessed to have such a caring and supportive team at the AWM supporting us through all of this.

I recall the day of the opening after we as the committee laid our poppies down and were then followed by the community that gathered for the service. I was so overwhelmed with emotion to see the photos of those we have lost, the notes, the drawings, the lists of names, the parents holding onto a droplet and shedding tears. It was a moment in time I will never forget because I felt a sense of calm, despite my tears, that we had been able to provide something that was missing for all of these people who matter so very much.

What impact do you anticipate this sculpture will have in shedding light on the unseen challenges faced by veterans and their families as a result of military service?

The immediate impact that I have seen so far is for those who felt they were forgotten or not worthy of a place at the AWM finding their space, the parents that had lost a child to suicide feeling like the struggle of their son or daughter was seen and their grief is our grief, those who have been struggling finding a place to sit and gather their thoughts. The biggest impact that I hope to continue to see is the conversation about the difficulties continuing into effective change for the future of our veterans and their families. I know we will never be at a place where everyone comes out of service life in a good place, but we can work to make things better and support those who are not coping. There is a lot of work to be done to create this change, but For Every Drop Shed has been the start of a change for the future.

COMMEMORATION UNDERSTANDING THROUGH

As Director of the Australian War Memorial, Matt Anderson, is overseeing a once-in-a-generation redevelopment of one of Australia’s most beloved institutions. Part of this redevelopment is new spaces commemorating Australia’s modern conflicts. Following the dedication of the new sculpture For Every Drop Shed in Anguish, we spoke to Matt about the importance of our contemporary veterans seeing their experiences reflected at the Memorial.

Can you tell us a bit about the conception and development of for every drop shed in anguish and why it was so important?

Discussions started in 2017 to commission a work of art that would provide recognition for those who have suffered as a result of their military service. The work was driven by families and veterans through a very strong and committed stakeholder advisory group. The artist, Alex Seton, was known to us with his previous work As of today… already installed at the Memorial. He was chosen to create a piece that would capture all of the complex emotions included in this commission. And he has done a stunning job.

This sculpture invites all Australians to contemplate what the men and women of the ADF – and their families – have endured and in many cases still endure, and what has been asked of them in the training for and conduct of the defence of our freedoms and our values.

At the dedication ceremony, I remarked that when some patients look at a scar, they are most often reminded of the wounding. When a doctor looks at the same scar, they see the signs of a body healing.

This is a remarkable sculpture, perfect and full of imperfections. Its perfect imperfections remind us that not all scars are visible, and that, over time, a scar can, like these marble droplets of blood, sweat and tears, come to represent resilience, strength, hope and healing.

Why is it so important that we reflect the experiences of our contemporary veterans at the Australian War Memorial?

The nature of service has changed with each major conflict Australia has been involved in. There are defining characteristics of these conflicts, but each is equally important in the story of our nation. There is an unbroken line of service that extends from the Ascot landing boat from Gallipoli, all the way to and through the Tarin Kowt wall.

It’s important to remember that each person’s experience of service is different. The impacts, positive and negative will be as diverse as those who serve.

Only about 10 percent of our visitors are veterans, and roughly 20 percent know someone who has served. The overwhelming majority have little or no firsthand knowledge of war. We are the place where people come to understand the causes, conduct and consequences of war and conflict. We can’t do that by only telling part of a story. And it’s important to note that we do need to tell the whole story in order to make sense of it, and to provide context for those who do not experience it first-hand. As Charles Bean, the first official historian of the Memorial, said:

What these men did, nothing can alter now. The good and the bad, the greatness and the smallness of their story will stand… It rises, as it always will rise, above the mists of time, a monument to great-hearted men; and, for their nation, a possession for ever.

Of course, now we would say men and women, but otherwise that quote still embodies the work that we do and will continue to do for those who serve.

How well has this been done in the past?

When I started at the Memorial in April 2020, the galleries for modern conflicts could be crossed in 15 of my paces. That’s the Gulf Wars, East Timor, Iraq, Afghanistan and peacekeeping, in a space the size of a little over half a tennis court.

Australia has had peacekeepers in the field every day since 1947. In fact, Australians were part of the very first group of UN military observers anywhere in the world. Sixty - three peacekeeping missions in over 30 disputed countries or territories. These stories were told, as always at the Memorial, respectfully. But with the space given to them previously, we just couldn’t give a complete picture.

We do such a beautiful job of telling the stories of the First and Second World Wars, Korea, Malaya, Borneo, and Vietnam. They are nuanced galleries, touching on all aspects of the conflicts; the political landscape, weaponry and technology and most importantly, the people. We weave together stories based on large technology objects like tanks with tiny, fragile objects like a sweetheart brooch to transport visitors to a time and place outside of their experience.

We need to do this for Modern Conflicts with the same care and detail that we have for our past conflicts. These veterans

 Photo credit: courtesy of the Australian War Memorial.

are still with us. They are visiting with their families right now. They need to see themselves, their mates, and their experiences here. They should come in and see their story and feel proud of what they have achieved in the nation’s uniform and in our name. For some, it might help them understand it better, or help their family understand it better. It will also help someone with no other experience of service to understand it. That’s our job – leading remembrance and understanding.

What was important to you and the Memorial when developing the new modern conflict galleries and spaces?

Firstly, you should know this Development is being built for veterans, and by veterans. We are proud to have a strong Veterans in Construction Program. Contractors seeking major construction contracts with the Memorial are required to detail a “Veterans’ Engagement Approach” as part of the tender process. The approach is working well, with veterans both new to the industry and more experienced working in all aspects of the build.

When we poured the first concrete for the new footings, I was joined onsite by several veterans. There was no media, just a few mates who wanted to mark the rising up of the new space that will house their stories. They laid a few small items in the foundations.

That to me, spoke volumes. It tells me that we are doing the right thing, because the people whose stories we will tell inside the building want to be part of it, from the ground up!

Secondly, it was important to capture, up front, our veterans’ stories in their own words. More than 1000 veterans and currently serving personnel have provided interviews, donations, and other information on their experiences to our curators. This is how we will build authentic galleries to share these experiences with the broad range of visitors we see every day.

We are also being guided by five Advisory Groups, including a Veterans Group. With these galleries, even more than our current spaces, we want to make sure that we’re telling the whole story, the context of these operations. This includes the voices, experiences, and impacts on the veterans, their families, and the civilian communities.

What can people expect to see when those galleries are opened?

The Gallery Development process is an incredible journey. For the new galleries in Lower Anzac Hall - Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria and Peacekeeping – we started with 9051 items for potential display. We have worked that list down to 2317 items. It will include a FA-18 Classic Hornet, M113 APC, Kiowa, RHIB (Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat), UN Landrover, Long Range Patrol Vehicle and a Bushmaster.

In Upper Anzac Hall we started with 3026 items for potential display and have landed on a final list of 594 items that best tell each story. We have stuck with the Memorial’s long-standing practice: we don’t collect items of type; we collect items of story!

In February last year, we were able to announce the inclusion of the Chinook helicopter. Chinooks have served in both conflict and humanitarian operations. Between 2006 and 2013, hundreds of personnel served over 11 rotations with eight Australian army Chinooks in Afghanistan. More recently, Chinooks have been used in humanitarian operations, assisting with the flood recovery efforts.

This particular helicopter is Chinook CH 47 D A15 202 –The Centaur. It was one of the first Australian aircraft deployed to Afghanistan and completed four rotations, a total of 513 days. It was damaged in 2009 by enemy fire during a troop insertion. Captain Michael Whitney, the pilot, was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal for his actions during the event. The aircraft was retired in 2016 and brought into the National Collection. It will feature on the upper floor of ANZAC Hall. Its ramp will be down, and it is my intention that veterans and their families will be able to sit inside it afterhours. To be alone with their thoughts or simply with each other.

Commemoration through understanding.

We will also display Debbie, a bushmaster also known as Echo 21 Alpha. Debbie was being driven by Private Matthew Clarke, of MTF 5 when it suffered an IED attack on 10 July 2012.

We will recreate her condition immediately after the IED strike – as a life-sized diorama – and are currently trying to recreate everything from the patrol order, including, quite literally, the kitchen sink that she had on the roof when the Italian T6 anti-tank mine and 20 litres of fuel in a yellow palm oil container was triggered.

Commemoration through understanding.

 Photo credit: courtesy of the Australian War Memorial.

MARCH ON

Each year, we're awestruck by the effort and dedication of our March On participants.

Our largest annual fundraising event, March On this year saw 6,885 participants take on the challenge of walking 96km through the month of March. Together they covered over half a million kilometres and raised vital funds for veteran mental health and suicide prevention.

But March On is more than just a fundraiser. It has created a sense year-round community that offers connection, encouragement, and support to those affected by the toll of military service. Our March On Challenge Facebook group serves as a vibrant hub for this community spirit, established in honour of the late Sergeant Bert Le-Merton, whose remarkable March On achievements in 2020 and 2021 – at the age of 101! –inspired countless others to join the cause. This community thrives on unity, drawing strength from shared experiences and senses of purpose. Upon joining, you’ll immediately notice the overwhelming support and encouragement exchanged among members, each embarking on the March On challenge with unique motivations and aspirations. We’ve witnessed the forging of friendships through March On that transcend the grief that so many have experienced through loss. Throughout the year, beyond the month of March, this group’s camaraderie is a reminder of the spirit that endures in the face of adversity, something that makes our community so unique. Here are the stories of just some of the extraordinary individuals who have contributed to the March On Challenge group in 2024. These remarkable individuals have uplifted others, shared their inspiring stories, and achieved extraordinary milestones, whether through fundraising efforts or impressive distances walked.

Maitland, NSW

After suffering a heart attack in January, Bruce, 80, embarked on a journey of recovery, incorporating walking into his cardio rehab regimen. Encouraged by a veteran mate during RSL Sub-branch duty, Bruce decided to participate in March On, starting his walking regime in February to test his capabilities. Covering an impressive 128 kilometres in February alone, he signed up for March On. Surpassing his own expectations, he covered 269 kilometres during his March On challenge, raising over $2600. Dedicated to honouring his father, Charles Sanders, and father-in-law, Les Kennedy, both New Guinea veterans, Bruce's march extended beyond the length of Kokoda and back.

March On has been a “wonderful experience” for Bruce. “I would like to thank my generous sponsors and all the wonderful people I have met through March On,” he says. “God willing, I hope to be fit enough to march again next year.”

Bruce had a long career in the Merchant Navy of many countries and many years of service in the Royal Australian Navy Reserve. He has been married to his wife Pat for 52 years, and they have three children. Bruce is also the cofounder and current coordinator of Pens for the Troops, a charitable initiative providing handcrafted pens to deployed service personnel across all three services for the past 17 years.

BRUCE SANDERS

Perth, WA

“I got involved with March On as a follow on from previous years. I’m very passionate about mental health and supporting others, in particular veterans that do so much for us and don’t get enough in return. I also want to say thanks to Soldier On, you guys keep up the great work!”

MICHELLE SPENCER

Singleton, NSW

“The reason I have taken part in the March On Challenge for the last 4 years is because I worked at the Health Centre at Lone Pine Barracks, Singleton for 14 years from 2005 - 2019. During this time, I witnessed firsthand the impact that PTSD and Mental Health Illness has on our servicemen and women and their families. I vowed I would do whatever I could to help these wonderful heroes.”

THE LONG PATROL TEAM

Tasmania

Now in their fourth year, The Long Patrol team has grown each March On, and so has their media profile and support within the local community, as they continue to make headlines for walking 96km in one go in just over 20 hours!

“The veteran community is active here on the island,” says Oliver Breeze, Charity Coordinator of the Long Patrol Team. “In my position on the Executive Committee for the Veterans’ Retreat, I have engaged with a multitude of veterans from WW2 to current campaigns. What makes us unique is we are a small state and very close-knit community.”

The team has cultivated strong alliances with organisations such as the RSL Clubs in Westbury and Launceston, as well as the St Andrew Caledonian Pipes and Drums. Notable figures like Bridget Archer MP, Simon Wood MP, and local businesses like Swift Meats and The Running Company have also leant support and sponsorship.

Looking forward, The Long Patrol team is focused on continued expansion, heightened media visibility, and increased fundraising efforts. "As we approach our fifth year, our team is eager to continue the tradition of undertaking the walk,” says Oliver. “Planning discussions for 2025 are already underway." They are exploring innovative approaches, such as introducing a relay component to accommodate broader participation in their 96 km walk.

MIKE MCCORQUODALE

JULIE MILLARD

Sydney, NSW

“In November 2022, following the release of the Interim Report of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, I embarked on a personal campaign to ensure that health and community services ask whether a person accessing their service is a serving or ex-serving member of the ADF. The Interim Report highlighted this gap in data collection, and being a mental health nurse and consultant, I am acutely aware of the impact this can have on service delivery for veterans. The March On challenge was a fantastic way to support this advocacy, to increase awareness of veteran suicide, and to show respect for my friends who serve, and my uncles who served in WWII.”

STEVEN COWAN

Townsville, QLD

“This has been my first March On. I am marching for my daughter who is a veteran, my son currently serving, my son-in-law who is currently serving, and his brother and father who are both serving. I am also marching for those who have gone before them and still are defending our beautiful free country, they sacrifice so much that most people do not know. I have loved my march and am so proud of myself and everyone else who has marched around the country.”

SARAH HARVEY

Brisbane, QLD

“This is me and my daughter Danielle’s second year participating in March On together as a team. We participate in March On because we have the utmost respect for our veterans and appreciate the sacrifices that they have made to protect our way of life. We March On because want to help raise awareness of veteran suicide and to show veterans that they are not alone.”

Led by Mix 104.9’s energetic Daniel Hilliard, the RAAF to Robbo walk raising funds for March On has become a proud tradition in Darwin. Daniel and Soldier On Program and Engagement Officer Shane Pascoe-Bell started organising this year’s event back in December, and their efforts paid off, with the walk growing from 25 participants in 2023 to over 175 in 2024.

Commencing in the early hours of the morning amidst pouring rain, the group embarked on a 14.5km trek along the Stuart Highway from Darwin’s RAAF base to Robertson Barracks. The long line of dedicated participants marching side by side was a profound reminder of the resilience of those we march on for.

Explaining his passion for the project, Daniel says, “I did March On this year and last year as well because I nearly joined the Army, but ultimately, they couldn’t take me. I’ve got quite a few mates in the forces including a guy I’ve known for 26 years, and I felt that the best I could do short of being beside him in the trenches was trying to make sure that he, and his family, have the support they need should something happen or change.”

Daniel’s dedication extends to raising awareness within the Darwin community, which comprises a significant population of ADF personnel. “I wanted to create an event that puts this cause in the public eye, so RAAF to Robbo was born,” he explains.

House of Representatives Member for Solomon Luke Gosling OAM (himself a March On participant) promoted the event in Federal Parliament in the leadup. “Soldier On is one of the essential service providers at the Mates4Mates Veteran and Family Wellbeing Centre that opened in Stuart Park last May,” he said.

“I have had the pleasure of spending time at Stuart Park, along with my Ministerial colleagues Matt Keogh and Matt Thistlethwaite, and seeing first-hand the tremendous service delivered by the whole team there,” he continued.

“As a fourth-generation veteran who transitioned from the ADF, I can’t praise Soldier On highly enough and I urge everyone who is able to chuck their runners on this Friday.”

A highlight of the event was the community engagement initiative, where drivers were encouraged to honk their horns in support. Local business Murray Oakley Retravision generously pledged to donate $5 for every honk received, further bolstering the groups fundraising efforts.

We thank serving members, Veterans and families for their service and sacrifice.

we forget

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ONGOING AN LEGACY

A JOURNEY OF REMEMBRANCE AND HOPE

As the sun rose on another March 1st, Soldier On Ambassador George Sutton laced up his shoes, his heart full of memories and determination.

For George, March On isn’t just a physical feat to raise awareness. It’s a pilgrimage of remembrance, a testament to resilience, and a beacon of hope as he dedicates days throughout March to loved ones he and others have tragically lost.

George joined the Air Force in 1988 straight out of school, inspired to enlist due to the influence of two ex-RAAF neighbours he had in his hometown of Newman, Western Australia. He went onto serve for 33 years as an Aircraft Technician, but also held roles in training, personnel management, and welfare – “some years enjoyable, some a nightmare,” as he recalls.

For four years now, George has taken up the March On challenge, raising over $35,000 to date. It was two years ago that George discovered his friend Waide Duncan had tragically died at home. Waide had served in the Royal Australian Air Force for many years as a General Hand, Physical Training Instructor, and lastly as a Loadmaster

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on a Hercules Aircraft. Though he hadn’t died by suicide, like many veterans he had battled demons, endured isolation, and suffered from a profound lack of connection.

From this tragedy, “Walking for Waide” was born – a March On team fuelled by love, remembrance, and soldiering on despite the grief that so many within our veteran community have experienced. United in purpose, George and his team members, including co-founder Shaun McGill, stride side-by-side, setting out every morning at 5:30am as a living tribute to those lost and a beacon of solidarity for those who remain.

Last year their ranks swelled, even crossing state lines, as they collectively raised over $43,000. But for George, the journey is far from over. This year, he dreams of taking their cause national, inviting all who have lost loved ones in service to join their ranks, dedicating a day in March to walk in their memory.

“Whilst the team is named for Waide, the ideology of the team is simply to remember,” says George. “If you have lost someone in this way, we will dedicate a day during the month where the whole team walks to honour their memory on that day.”

Each step the team takes is imbued with meaning, each kilometre a silent tribute to the lives lost and the legacy they leave behind.

On day four, George shared:

“Today’s walk is dedicated to CPL Nathan Stratton. I had the pleasure of working with Nathan, a loveable larrikin, at 77SQN from 2011 to 2013. Whilst he was a bit of a larrikin there wasn’t many I trusted more with knowledge when it came to the FA-18. He was not only a tragic loss to friends and family, but also to the Air Force.”

Day six was solemnly dedicated to the memory of SQNLDR Hardik Mehta, described by Goerge as “a highly intelligent, thoughtful, and quietly spoken man, ” who had a young family when he passed away.

Day 20 will be dedicated to George’s friend John Manson, who died during March On last year.

But amidst the grief, there’s also hope, a flicker of light in the darkness. When George and Shaun walk together, they carry with them the belief that through collective action and commitment, we can build a future where no veteran feels alone, where every life is cherished, and where the bonds of camaraderie endure beyond service.

With this belief, in addition to his remarkable four-year journey of fundraising for March On, George runs a fortnightly Soldier On Coffee Catchup group, leads a veteran walking group every alternate week, and runs a Facebook community for medically retired veterans in the Newcastle/Hunter Valley area. His unwavering dedication to fostering positive change within the veteran community is inspiring.

So, as the sun sets on another day of walking, George’s resolve remains unbroken and his spirit undimmed, for in every step lies the promise of a better tomorrow, where the fallen are remembered, the living are supported, and the legacy of service endures.

“It is time for the physical health and mental health issues of our serving members and veterans to come out of the shadows and into the light of care and action,” George says. “March On brings those issues into the light and helps to raise money for one of the organisations at the forefront in providing help.”

“At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, we will remember them.” And with each March On, we honour them all.

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TRANSITIONING WITH RESILIENCE

FINDING MEANING IN A NEW MISSION AT STRYKER

A multinational medical device company may be a somewhat surprising place to find a thriving community of veterans. Combat Engineers, Transport Officers, Military Flight Attendants, Aircraft Technicians, Medics, and many others are among those who have found success and meaning working across different divisions at Stryker South Pacific.

At the heart of Stryker’s mission is a commitment to making healthcare better by developing innovative products and services that ultimately improve the lives of patients. This is expressed through their mission: “Together with our customers, we are driven to make healthcare better”. This mission-focussed approach encourages veterans to bring their skills and values instilled during military service and commit them to a new cause.

Stryker employs veterans in a wide range of roles across the business, including field service and operations, clinical, sales, supply, logistics, finance, and management. Veterans are highly valued at Stryker for the unique skillsets they developed during their service, and many are employed in high stakes key roles that are critical to the success of Stryker’s mission.

The Stryker South Pacific Veteran’s Association (SSPVA) is the foundation and heart driving Stryker’s ongoing commitment to supporting veterans.

Sarah Yates, a Field Service Engineer in Stryker’s Technical Operations team, expressed gratitude for the community of veterans in the company who supported her transition from the ADF. “I didn’t expect to need the help. I’d served in the RAAF Reserves for most of my adult life and didn’t anticipate the sense of loss I found when I left.

The camaraderie and advocacy of the veteran community at Stryker made that transition so much easier.”

Stryker is a Platinum Pledge partner of Soldier On and made a submission to the Royal Commission into Defence and Veterans Suicide in 2023. Representatives of the SSPVA met with members of Federal Parliament to discuss key

issues impacting veterans in Australia. Outside of this external advocacy, the SSPVA strives to provide a sense of community and tangible support for ex-serving members and their families.

The SSPVA has recently been nominated by Soldier On for the 2024 Defence and National Security Workforce Awards to recognise their commitment to supporting veterans and their families.

Like many veterans, Laura Padgham did not have an easy transition from the ADF. Her transition story is one of grit, adaptation, and commitment. Laura served for 15 years in the Royal Australian Corps of Transport in various roles at home and abroad as both a soldier and an officer. She made the leap into civilian life in 2022, joining Stryker as a Team Leader for Site Engineers in the Communications team.

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Laura’s transition wasn’t just about switching jobs – it was about embracing a new challenge while carrying forward the skills and values instilled in her during her military service. Skills like leadership, teamwork, discipline weren’t just buzzwords; they were the backbone of her success during the transition process.

Stryker recognises the value that veterans like Laura bring to the table. They didn’t just see her as a former soldier; they saw her as a skilled professional with a unique perspective and a proven track record of getting things done. A leader, a problem solver, and a team player. They invested in her development and connected her with a support network aimed at helping veterans like Laura seamlessly integrate into civilian life and thrive in their new roles.

For Laura, joining Stryker wasn’t about just finding a job – it was about finding a community. “The SSPVA became my anchor: providing support, camaraderie, and a platform to advocate for issues that really matter to me. It was a reminder that I’m not alone in this journey and that there are others who understand the challenges we’re facing”.

Central to Laura’s mission within the SSPVA is her commitment to supporting the mental health and well-being of her fellow veterans. Having experienced, and survived, the ups and downs of transition first hand, she knows just how important it is to have access to resources and support systems that can help navigate the challenges of civilian life.

Laura’s story isn’t just about her. It’s about the broader recognition of the genuine, tangible value that veterans bring to Australian workforces. Stryker, like many other forward-thinking companies, understands that veterans possess a unique set of skills and experiences that can drive innovation and success across the board. Their ability to adapt to changing circumstances and knack for problem-solving under pressure ensure that veterans are an invaluable asset to any organisation.

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PATRONS SHARE THANKS

Our Patrons, the Governor-General, His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd) and Her Excellency Mrs Linda Hurley hosted our charity for a reception at Government House in late February.

With the Governor-General’s term ending in June, it was likely the last time we will visit them at that residence, but we are thrilled to say that the Governor-General and Mrs Hurley have committed to continuing as our patrons into the future.

This event was a wonderful opportunity for our Patrons to thank partners for their dedication to our charity, to celebrate with them our achievements over 2023, and to share our plans for the coming year and beyond as we continue our mission to enable contemporary veterans and their families to thrive.

TGI Defence is a fully sovereign, Australian-owned enterprise, specialising in managing the transportation of sensitive, oversized, and critical cargo, both domestically and internationally. Our team of dedicated logistics professionals, supported by global partners, ensures a personalised, service-driven approach with offices in Canberra, Brisbane, Toowoomba, and Melbourne. Our team is ready to plan and execute project delivery on time and in budget. At TGI Defence, we support veterans and recognise the value they bring to Australia's defence industry

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ABOVE CUT A

Meet Ray Wood, owner of The Soldiers Cut, who has made a remarkable commitment to supporting veterans through his new business initiative.

When you reflect on our veteran community, what resonates most?

For us, it’s the remarkable strength and unity of our community and the individuals who make it their mission to give back to those who have served.

Ray's journey is one of unwavering dedication. “I grew up watching my dad transition from the Army to running his own butcher shops,” he says.

“Starting as a less-than-skilled washup boy in his shops, I eventually pursued a Bachelor of Business in Marketing and Finance at Wollongong University. Afterward, I spent three years at the NSW Attorney General's Office before approaching my dad with the idea of starting my own business.”

Having established Jumbuck Meats Gourmet Butchery in Oatley in 2012, Ray is now proudly the proprietor of the most acclaimed butchery in NSW, adorned with accolades including Best Butchery in the St George area of Sydney 11 times and Best Butchery in Australia in 2020 and 2022.

By 2022, having already achieved so much, Ray started to look forward towards his next step.

“I wanted to invest in a factory, rebrand our wholesale arm from Jumbuck Meats, and separate the businesses fully. Having previously run charities, including one for the Prince of Wales Hospital Spinal unit, I’ve always known I

just loved to give back,” Ray says.

“Growing up with my father, Ray Snr, who served in the Army including two tours of Vietnam, instilled in me a deep appreciation for veterans, having been around Anzac Days and Vietnam Veteran Days since I was a small boy.”

And so came the birth of The Soldiers Cut, from which Ray has pledged to donate 5 per cent of net profit quarterly to Soldier On.

“The initiative of supporting Soldier On came from dad's service in the Army, along with knowing that our target market was to RSL Clubs.

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A meat wholesale facility supplying RSL and other Clubs with quality meat, fresh produce and seafood trays that surpasses all the competition, while helping a charity like Soldier On to support returned veterans and their families, it all just made sense,” says Ray.

To celebrate this new venture, Ray, accompanied by his father and fellow veterans, joined Soldier On at our Lunch is Served luncheon graciously hosted by Club Rivers in early March.

Paul and Jenny, the generous hosts of this event, welcomed the group with open arms, fostering an atmosphere of companionship. Beyond being a mere meal, these Lunch is Served gatherings also serve as a vital resource hub for attending veterans transitioning to civilian life, providing access to essential support services.

As tales and memories flowed, it became clear that Ray's initiative transcended mere philanthropy, it was a poignant tribute to the sacrifices of servicemen and women who have who have given so much for our country.

The Soldier’s Cut has undergone remarkable recent expansion, forging partnerships with renowned brands such as Cape Grim, Bass Strait, Cowra Lamb, La Lonica Chicken, and Bruemar Pork. Clubs across NSW have eagerly embraced the enterprise, acknowledging the importance of backing initiatives that directly benefit the community.

With a dedicated facility and state-ofthe-art machinery including automatic wrappers and a new delivery truck, The Soldier’s Cut is poised for even further growth, with plans to soon take on their first staff member sourced through Soldier On.

“The goal now that we have established our facility and systems is to simply grow. Sign more clubs up for raffle trays and even look to employ more veterans into the business, all while growing that 5 per cent quarterly donation to Soldier On and other returned veteran organisations,” Ray says.

"I'm honoured to be able to give back in any way I can. My father's service has always been an immense source of pride for our family, and I want to do my part to support veterans and their families."

Hear their remarkable stories

A VETERAN STRONG ORGANISATION

Omni supports our veterans by recognising that their well-being extends beyond their service. We believe in supporting the physical as well as mental health of those who have served our nation.

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AURECON

SUPPORTING VETERANS WITH PASSION AND PURPOSE

What makes an organisation veteran-friendly? Who better to ask than Soldier On Ambassador and Aurecon’s Diversity Recruitment and Careers Manager, Karen Gallacher.

As a values-led organisation, Aurecon is a proud Platinum Pledge Partner of Soldier On, exemplifying excellence in engineering, design, and advisory services throughout Australia. Renowned for innovation and a steadfast commitment to community impact, Aurecon is recognised as a veteran-friendly organisation with a rich history of partnership with the Department of Defence. Through comprehensive policies and frameworks, Aurecon ensures engagement and support for veterans and their families, cementing its position as a leader in veterans' employment.

At the core of Aurecon's commitment to veterans and their families is Karen Gallacher, Aurecon's Diversity Recruitment and Careers Manager. We had the opportunity to ask Karen four questions about Aurecon's dedication to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture, where individuals can apply their skills with passion and purpose. Here’s what she had to say.

1. In your own words, how would you describe the workplace culture at Aurecon?

I have been quoted on many occasions stating Aurecon truly ‘walks the talk’ in promoting an inclusive and supportive workplace culture. We are a values-led organisation, and our Aurecon Defence values of Co-creation, Excellence, Integrity, and Legacy align closely with those of Defence and the values many of our veterans hold. At Aurecon we value diversity, and the unique differences people bring to our organisation that also play a big role in contributing to the success of our clients and their projects. With people being at the heart of everything we do, we want everyone to have their voices heard, feel valued and connected.

As a veteran friendly organisation, we acknowledge the unique support required for veterans within the workplace and have a Veteran Engagement Program and framework in place to ensure veterans and their family members experience a smooth and seamless transition from

Defence. We also have an established Veterans Network that provides the opportunity for further connection and support for our veterans throughout their journey at Aurecon.

2. What do you find most rewarding about your role as Aurecon’s Diversity Recruitment and Careers Manager?

I really commend Aurecon in establishing this role that has a specific focus on diversity recruitment, particularly targeting veteran recruitment. I haven’t seen many organisations create a dedicated role and am really proud to be championing veteran recruitment efforts at Aurecon. I thoroughly enjoy the opportunity to talk directly with veterans and their families. During our chats I always acknowledge their military service, explore potential

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career opportunities with Aurecon and also offer employment support and advice to polish their CV and cover letter, interview preparation, job search strategies and to create a LinkedIn profile designed to assist them to put their best foot forward and to confidently navigate the competitive civilian job market.

Quite often the veteran/family member will be pleasantly surprised to receive a call from me. Each candidate who registers their expression of interest with us via our veteran job portal can look forward to a call from me. As a veteran myself, there is an instant connection and understanding and quite often a sense of relief and joy to talk with someone who actually “gets” them – who understands their service, their skills, experiences and the unique challenges they face as a veteran job seeker.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my job is designing and delivering experience led strategies for the recruitment and career development for veterans and people with disability. In creating these employment pathways for veterans and their family members, it gives me an incredible sense of fulfilment and joy seeing them thrive in their careers at Aurecon. When I started in this role in September 2022 there were 63 veterans employed, and today I am pleased to report we have attracted and successfully onboarded 98 veterans into Aurecon.

3. Can you share your experience of uniting as a team across Australia to participate in March On? What motivated Aurecon to join March On this year?

This is where we literally are about walking the talk! There are a number of reasons why Aurecon united as a national team and was motivated to join the March On Challenge for a second year in a row. We are an avid supporter and Platinum Pledge Partner of Soldier On’s life changing work supporting the veteran community. We view the March On Challenge as a great way to demonstrate our commitment to supporting veterans and their families.

Other motivating factors included:

§ Team cohesiveness and connection: Team Aurecon helps to foster new connections between veteran and non-veteran employees. It also drives discussions across our organisation for others to learn more about the broader veteran community.

§ Raising awareness: Our support and involvement in March On also improves awareness not only amongst our people, but our clients and broader community around mental health and Soldier On’s services and programs that support current and ex serving ADF members and their families.

§ Promotes individuals’ mental health well-being and physical fitness: Actively encouraging team members to join Team Aurecon or challenge themselves personally across the month of March to see how many kilometres they can achieve through multiple modes of exercise.

Our participation was led and championed by Damon Howes, Aurecon’s Managing Director, Defence & National Security, who is also an Army veteran and the Executive Sponsor of our

veteran network and veteran employee Pillar/Employee Reference Group (ERG).

To promote greater participation and awareness of this key fundraising event, we had a number of veterans from our Veterans Network lead office walks across the month of March. The office walks were held across nine locations nationally and were well supported by our veterans and non-veteran employees. A highlight for the Newcastle office was having the local Soldier On team members join us for our walk to Fort Scratchley.

As part of our supportive and collaborative work environment, we also created a March On Challenge ‘Team Aurecon’ group chat for our 47 Team Aurecon members to share their stories, photos, virtual Kokoda Track journey milestones and experiences across the month of March.

Overall, we were blown away that we managed to surpass our fundraising efforts from the 2023 March On challenge while also increasing the number of Team Aurecon members who took on the challenge, along with the ripple effect we created across the broader Aurecon business nationally seeing so many of our people attend our office walk events.

4. As an employer of choice and Platinum Pledge Partner, renowned for initiatives like your ‘Our Veterans’ portal, what are Aurecon’s aspirations in the diversity and inclusion domain specifically for veterans in thecoming years?

Our aspirations in the diversity and inclusion domain, particularly for veterans and their family members, are focused on several key areas in the coming years including:

Increase the number of veterans and family members at Aurecon

A key aspiration and ongoing objective of ours is to continually strive to attract and retain veterans and family members at Aurecon, ensuring we have a diverse and collaborative workforce. We are continuously assessing current initiatives to identify what we could be doing better or consider new initiatives that support our diversity, equity and inclusion plan at Aurecon.

We are very pleased to see how our dedicated Veterans’ career webpage and job portal, coupled with other targeted recruitment efforts, has allowed us to connect a number of veterans and their families with meaningful employment opportunities within our organisation and beyond.

Strengthening veteran community partnerships

We value organisations like Soldier On and the important work they do to support our veteran community. We will continue to partner with, volunteer and support a range of community organisations to help veterans and their families thrive.

Measuring our progress

We recognise the importance of measuring our progress and holding ourselves accountable. We have established metrics to track our diversity and inclusion efforts specifically related to veterans and their families. By regularly assessing our performance, we can identify areas of improvement and ensure that we continuously evolve and adapt to

better serve the needs of our veteran identified employees and the wider veteran community.

Providing ongoing support to veterans and promoting and inclusive culture

We are committed to providing ongoing support and mentorship to veterans and their families who join our organisation. We aspire to continue enhancing our internal initiatives and programs with direct input and collaboration from our veteran employees to ensure they are specifically tailored to their needs. We strive to have successful initiatives in place that provide a sense of camaraderie, support, and professional development opportunities within our workplace, while also promoting a culture of inclusivity and understanding within our organisation by raising awareness and educating our workforce about the experiences, challenges, and strengths of our veterans. Aurecon remains committed to supporting and empowering veterans and their families as they transition into civilian employment and thrive in their professional lives, now and into the future.

IN THE COMMUNITY

ADELAIDE

After a period of maternity leave, we’ve been thrilled to welcome back Program and Engagement Officer

Charmaine McClounan, who has hit the ground running with a renewed sense of energy and dedication.

Her return has been marked by a series of impactful engagements, demonstrating her commitment to supporting veterans and their families.

One notable event was her attendance at the DMFS Welcome Day held at the Adelaide Zoo, where Charmaine engaged over 1500 ADF members and their families and reconnected with stakeholders, strengthening partnerships crucial for the welfare of veterans. Her presence was warmly received, reflecting Soldier On’s integral role within the veteran community.

In addition to her engagement with DMFS, Charmaine has been actively involved in various ESO stakeholder engagements, fostering collaboration and cooperation among organisations dedicated to supporting veterans.

A highlight for Adelaide participants is the Coffee Club, a weekly gathering hosted by Soldier On at the Watershed Café in Mawson Lakes. Celebrating its third anniversary in March, the Coffee Club has become a staple event, providing veterans and their families with a welcoming space to connect, share stories, and receive support. This milestone was made possible through the generous sponsorship of PappsPM and Operation Unity, whose support has been invaluable in the success and sustainability of this vital initiative. We’re so pleased to have Charmaine back on board to share her passion, dedication, and commitment to serving the veteran community!

BRISBANE

MARCH ON WAS KICKED OFF WITH A BANG IN BRISBANE!

In a wonderful display of camaraderie, troops from the Gallipoli Barracks rallied together to increase awareness for the event. Soldier On would like to extend their gratitude to Major General Ash Collingburn, AM, DSM, Commander of the Australian Army's 1st Division and Regimental Sargent Major WO1 Andrew Shore, for their much-valued support and to the dedicated members of 6th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, 2nd Combat Engineer Regiment, 2nd/14th Light Horse Regiment and 1st (Australian) Division , who also lent their support to this vital cause and participated in a photo shoot with Soldier On staff member, Megan.

IN THE COMMUNITY

CANBERRA

The first day of March in Canberra was a glorious day for a walk!

We launched the nation’s capital leg of the March On campaign with a walk on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, led by CEO Chairman Peter Leahy and CEO Amy Cooper.

A group of dedicated March On participants met us bright and early, and together we covered off the first 4.4 kilometres of the month-long challenge, with the chance to chat, take in the early morning sights, and even grab a coffee for the return journey.

Meanwhile, other members of the Soldier On team were invited to take part in a slightly more arduous walk to the top of Mount Ainslie with Team Wolfpack – a March On team made up of Training Officers from Alpha Squadron at the Australian Defence Force Academy. Team Wolfpack ended up placing fifth overall in the team fundraisers, with an incredible $18,576 raised!

IN THE COMMUNITY

DARWIN

It’s been a big few months in the Northern Territory. Soldier On Program and Engagement Officer

Shane attended the Welcome to Darwin Expo in February, as well as most of the Unit Family Days for 1 Brigade.

Shane continues to spend one day per week working out of Roberston Barracks, using Soldier On’s HELP model to support ADF members transitioning out of Defence, and also works with the Soldier Recovery Centre and Transition Panel every quarter for all members that are transitioning. Planning is also now underway for events in NT Defence Week, which runs from 7-13 May.

Shane also put in a huge effort on the March On front, organising a Walk on the Esplanade event that saw a large group of participants to walk the 2.5 kilometre loop from Darwin Cenotaph to the USS Peary Memorial for a total of 96 kilometres. He also had the privilege of taking a walk with our Patron, the Governor-General, during which he reports they discussed Soldier On, veterans, and sheep-dog trials!

The biggest walk of the month was the mammoth trek from RAAF to Robbo in the pouring rain, organised by Dan Hilliard from Mix 104.9. Read more about that in our March On feature on page 19.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

FACILITIES MANAGEMENT | PROJECT DELIVERY | REAL ESTATE MANAGEMENT ASSET MANAGEMENT | ENERGY & SUSTAINABILITY SOLUTIONS | TRADE SERVICES

As a proud and long-term supporter of the veteran community, BGIS provides training and support to individuals exiting the Defence Force and National Security Agencies.

BGIS is seeking licenced ex-serving members to join our trades team. We have an ongoing requirement for electrical, HVAC-R, carpentry and fire technicia maintenance and project teams, as we continue to grow our business in sectors such as government, aviation and healthcare. If this opportunity interests you please reach out via the QR code.

IN THE COMMUNITY

MELBOURNE

In March, Soldier On had the pleasure of hosting a Job Ready Workshop funded by the Mornington Peninsula Shire to support Defence members, veterans and their families.

Led by Soldier On Ambassador Karen Gallacher, a 20-year RAAF veteran and industry-leading expert in recruitment, the workshop empowered participants with up-todate and relevant skills for being job ready. Topics covered included how to develop and market your personal brand, how to tailor your CV and cover letters to a job advertisement, and how to ace your interview.

The workshop was hosted and fully catered by the Mornington Golf Club, and supported by a generous contribution from Aussie Broadband. Participants were able to pick up invaluable new skills for navigating the civilian job market.

“I have a resume,” said one participant, “but after coming to this workshop I now know there’s areas I can further develop, and I plan on making some amendments to my resume as soon as I get home. The information has been so helpful towards knowing and understanding what recruiters are seeking when reviewing applicants.”

An online workshop follow up session will occur on Monday 24 June at 12pm.

0457 912 828 Follow us on Social Media! Proudly supporting Soldier On and our Veteran Community IGNITE THE FIRE WITHIN YOURSELF When you join Stoke the Fire, you’re not just getting high-quality, durable apparel for your adventures. You’re becoming part of a movement that seeks to destigmatize mental health issues and raise awareness. Together, we can create a world where everyone feels inspired, supported, and empowered to live their best lives. With an ever growing range of Men’s, Women’s & Kids clothing. Visit our website below to view our products and services www.stokethefire.com.au

STEP: SKILLS TRANSITION EDUCATION PROGRAM

TAFE SA offers a range of courses to help support members re-enter the civilian workforce, including skills training for careers in emerging Australian industries and pathways to employment in the ever-expanding defence industry.

SKILLS IN DEMAND >

In the coming years many of the careers projected for signi cant growth will require technical skills, similar to those you’ve acquired during your ADF career. Whether you’re undertaking the prior learning (RPL) process, engaging in gap training, or wanting to undertake an apprenticeship or traineeship, STEP enables you to ready yourself for a career in an industry poised for expansion.

TAFE SA has developed a relationship with defence and will work with you to provide specialised guidance and support. You will meet with a student counsellor who will assess your eligibility for funding and help with your selection of study options and courses.

NEXT STEPS

To see what possibilities are available, schedule an appointment by scanning the QR code, or visit the TAFE SA website.

IN THE COMMUNITY

SINGLETON

In the heart of Singleton, amidst the picturesque landscapes and bustling streets, a remarkable community initiative is taking root, promoting physical activity and emotional resilience among veterans and their families.

Soldier On Singleton’s Walking for Wellness group provides support and solidarity, promoting holistic well-being through the simple act of walking.

Led by resident Programs and Engagement Officer, Dean, and fueled by a collective spirit of camaraderie, the Walking for Wellness group gathers every Friday. The group's appeal lies not only in the physical benefits of exercise but also in the intangible bonds forged along the way. As veterans and their loved ones stroll side by side, they share stories, laughter, and a mutual understanding of the experience of military service.

"I've found solace and strength in the company of fellow veterans," says Gary, a regular attendee of the Walking for Wellness group. "Walking together has become a form of therapy, a way to navigate life's challenges with the support of those who understand."

The initiative aims to help participants find sanctuary in shared experiences and mutual encouragement, fostering a sense of belonging that

transcends the boundaries of age, background, and experience.

"Our aim is not merely to log kilometres but to cultivate a culture of care and compassion," explains Dean. "Through our walks, we aim to provide a lifeline for those navigating the complexities of post-service life, offering a space where they can find acceptance, understanding, and hope."

As the sun sets on another memorable walk, the members of the Walking for Wellness group depart with hearts full and spirits lifted. For them, the journey towards wellness is not measured in miles but in moments of connection, courage, and camaraderie shared along the way.

Amongst Soldier On Singleton’s programs, Walking for Wellness stands as a testament to our charity’s commitment to supporting veterans and their families in every facet of their lives. Through the simple act of walking, participants are not only moving towards physical health but also towards a brighter, more resilient future.

For those seeking solace, strength, and solidarity on their journey towards

wellness, Soldier On Singleton’s Walking for Wellness group offers a guiding light, illuminating the path forward one step at a time.

COFFEE GROUP

Amidst the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the hum of conversation, a cherished tradition is alive and thriving at York Street Diggers, where Singleton’s fortnightly Coffee Catch Up offers veterans and their families a welcoming space to connect, share stories, and find support in a community of understanding peers. Every second Thursday, members of the Singleton community gather to take part. The event serves as a vital opportunity for individuals to come together, relax, and build meaningful relationships in a relaxed environment of camaraderie and acceptance.

"It's more than just a coffee catchup; it's a lifeline," says Ruth, a regular attendee. "Being able to connect with fellow veterans and family over a cup of coffee has been instrumental in helping me feel less isolated and more understood."

SYDNEY IN THE COMMUNITY

LUNCH IS SERVED CAMDEN

Veterans from different walks of life gathered at the beautiful Camden Golf Club for our Lunch is Served event. This fantastic opportunity for connection was made possible by the generosity of Club Grants NSW and the dedicated efforts of James, Dean, and Hugh from Soldier On.

Veterans, both current and ex-serving, came to share stories, forge new bonds, and explore avenues of growth and support. Conversations and laughter flowed freely over shared experiences and the exchange of business ideas.

The group gathered to listen to a lived experience speech. Through heartfelt words, a veteran shared their journey, the challenges they faced, and the triumphs achieved with the support of organisations like Soldier On. It was a moment of reflection and inspiration, reminding everyone of the strength found in unity and understanding. The event also highlighted the Soldier On Mentoring Program, which is dedicated to guiding and empowering veterans in their professional, educational and personal goals. Mentors and mentees shared their experiences, showcasing the power of mentorship in fostering personal and professional growth.

Thank you to Clubs Grants NSW and Camden Golf Club for providing veterans not only a meal but a chance to share in a sense of belonging, purpose, and renewed energy.

LUNCH IS SERVED RIVERWOOD

Through the Clubs Grant program, James also a held Lunch is Served gathering at Club Rivers. This event brought together Soldier On participants and members of the club's Legion members, facilitated by the hospitality of Jenny and Paul from the club. In attendance were also Ray Senior and Junior from The Soldiers Cut, adding their perspectives to the shared experiences shared during the event. The focus remained on fostering

social connections and camaraderie, creating a space where veterans could interact meaningfully.

The lunch itself provided a backdrop for conversations and connections to flourish. As stories were exchanged and memories shared, the room buzzed with solidarity and understanding among those present. Through this event, the bonds within the veteran community were strengthened, embodying the ethos of support and companionship that we aim to nurture in the veteran journey.

OUR PARTNERS

Soldier On is grateful to our partners, sponsors and supporters. These organisations provide vital funding that directly enables Soldier On to continue to support veterans and their families.

Ensuring safe operations

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