SoldierOn.org.au
/SoldierOnAustralia
@SoldierOnAust
Spring 2015
Riding recover to
Also Inside this edition:
Australia in the Great War†White Pillar†Get Dirty for our Diggers
START HERE
FINISH HERE
START PLANNING AHEAD WITH DHA Sit back today and look forward to tomorrow with a DHA property investment. We’ll pay your rent, manage your tenants, take care of day-to-day maintenance and even guarantee a rental income¹ for up to 12 years. Visit dha.gov.au/lookforward
Look forward Attention: Investment is subject to DHA’s lease terms and conditions of sale. Investors retain some responsibilities and risks including property market fluctuations. Prospective investors should seek independent advice. 1. Rent may be subject to abatement in limited circumstances.
Contents Regular Items 5 6 28 30
Soldier On Update State Updates A day in the life of ‌ Book Review
Feature Stories 8 17
Riding to Recover Soldier On working to Enable Employment
18 20 22
Australia in the Great War
24
Fundraising Australians to thank for better wounded support
25
White Pillar provides strong foundation for the future of Soldier On
26
CSIRO protects our troops on and off the battlefield
Get Dirty for our Diggers Sporting partners help veterens kick recovery goals
8 20
2
SOLDIER ON  Spring 2015
Soldier On Get in touch Postal address PO Box 5186 Braddon ACT 2612 ACT/HQ: 0478 589 132 NSW/QLD: 02 9929 9576 VIC/TAS: 0439 665 409 WA: 0478 589 132 (Admin Enquiries) SA/NT: 0477 775 020
About Us Soldier On is about Australians coming together to show their support for our physically and psychologically wounded men and women. We want to show our sailors, soldiers, airmen and airwomen that we will always have their backs. Soldier On supports our veterans through: §§ Direct support services including contact through wounded liaison officers, psychological support, and other services delivered from centres located throughout the country; §§ Adventurous and inspirational activities such as golf, cycling, running and much many more programs promoting an active lifestyle; §§ Building a community of veterans and their families to facilitate peer support and the sharing of stories and experiences amongst our wounded; §§ Educational and employment opportunities, with courses offered online and face to face support in a variety of fields and through a dedicated online employment portal; and §§ A reintegration and recovery network offering a nationally coordinated approach where anyone can be linked to support services from organisations throughout Australia. In undertaking this work, Soldier On has grown from a volunteer run, grassroots support network to an organisation proudly providing support to hundreds of veterans and family members each month. The Reintegration and Recovery network is also expanding rapidly, with facilities now open in Sydney, Canberra, and Adelaide and centres in Melbourne, Perth and Currumbin to follow soon. To support Soldier On, please head to our website at SOLDIERON.ORG.AU
24
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. Countrywide Austral adheres to stringent ethical advertising practices and any advertising inquiries should be directed to:
26
Level 2, 310 King St, Melbourne VIC 3000 GPO Box 2466, Melbourne VIC 3001 Ph: 03 9937 0200 Fax: 03 9937 0201 Email: admin@cwaustral.com.au Web: www.cwaustral.com.au
28
Jamieson Foley Pty Ltd, Consulting Engineers has been a major sponsor of Soldier On since 2013. We are Forensic Engineers, involved in the investigation of accidents and incidents which almost inevitably result in physical and psychological trauma for those directly and indirectly involved. We see this every day. I have a background with Vietnam veterans and are acutely aware of the effects of being deployed to a theatre of war with no front, or any prospect of a quick military victory. On 10 September 2013 I saw off Liam Haven from Holsworthy Military Base. Liam’s objective was to walk from Holsworthy to the Australian War Memorial in 13 days in order to raise awareness for wounded veterans and to raise money. The reason this firm has committed significant funds to undertake this work is partly because I was a conscript for the Vietnam War (although ultimately I was not required) but I have seen friends return who needed such support as Solider On now gives. Liam was blinded in 2009 by an improvised explosive device planted by a cowardly enemy within Iraq. We all owe a huge debt to these servicemen and servicewomen – more than we can ever repay.
Liam Haven and John Jamieson on arrival in Canberra following the Governor General’s welcome at the Australian War Memorial, September 23, 2013.
Jamieson Foley & Associates | Suite 2201, Level 22 101 Grafton Street Bondi Junction NSW 2022 DX 12008 Bondi Junction | Ph: 02 8095 6433 Fax: 02 9386 1168 | www.jamiesonfoley.com.au
Soldier On Update The last 12 months has been an exciting time for Soldier On, and we have grown substantially.
N
ot only have we expanded to most states and territories in Australia, by the end of 2015 we will have more than doubled our capacity compared to this time last year. This is exciting given the number of veterans who have reached out for help. Where previously we have struggled to keep up with demand, we hope in the next 12 months Soldier On will get to a point where we can give each and every veteran the level of support they need.
For this, our first official newsletter, I would like to say thank you to all of you who support Soldier On, to give you an idea of what your generosity has helped us achieve so far, and what we will work towards achieving over the next 12 months. After establishing Reintegration and Recovery Centres in Adelaide, Sydney and Canberra in 2014 and 2015, we are now well on the way to expanding existing facilities and opening new Centres in 2016. The Robert Poate Centre in Canberra has already been relocated to larger premises, with more staff and more programs to be added by the end of the year. We have two psychologists working to support veterans and their families, and they are almost at capacity after less than six months in the job. This is both a exciting, as we have veterans seeking help, and a challenge, as we seek more funding to employ more support staff. The Michael Fussell Centre in Sydney continues to grow, with hundreds of veterans connecting with the NSW team every month and a new location opening in the west of the city in early 2016. A womens program, a mens program and a partners weekend have all shown early signs of success, with new activities such as these piloted in the state. Finally, the Adelaide Centre continues to see a growth in demand from veterans. We will be rolling out a new staff member there in the next month in order to meet this increasing demand.
Staff have also begun work in Perth, Melbourne and Currumbin, in preparation for the launch physical of the physical Centres there over the next 12 months. However, most exciting of all, is the prospect of establishing a Centre for Excellence in partnership with Concord Hospital. Planned for completion in 2018/2019, we will be providing a suite of services from a new, state-of-the-art facility at Concord. Veterans will be able to seek acute care, psychological support, and a host of rehabilitative services from the Hospital, while at the same location link with Soldier On community events, physical activities, workshops and other tailored sessions. The services at this facility will support veterans across Australia, with medium to long term care a priority. We will be raising funds to establish and run this Centre for the next two years, and will reveal more about the project soon. With your help, and the help of the wider Australian community, this Reintegration and Recovery Network will allow for a complete ecosystem of support. We will address gaps as and when we see them, and ensure our veterans have the worlds best care. Too many young veterans are taking their own lives, too many families are breaking down, and too many brave servicemen and women are feeling abandoned. Our purpose is to show them they are not alone – we will always have their backs.
John Bale, CEO
Helping our wounded warriors
5
State Updates
ACT In the ACT, we are seeing hundreds of veterans, family members and supporters connecting with the charity each month. With renovations to our Centre almost complete, we are preparing to increase capacity with yoga, music and coffee sessions held weekly. At a recent family event, more than 150 veterans and family members joined us for a round of GoKarting. An enthusiastic artist, Jake Rolfe, has commenced as our first Artist in Residence and is starting a program to offer veterans and their families opportunities to participate. We have an event in Thredbo on 11 September where veterans and their families can purchase lift tickets for only $25 if they hold a Soldier On or ADF card (more info on the website). And a monthly volunteer coffee catch up has been established in Albury at the Albury RSL sub branch. A family day is being planned for 11 October and will involve the assistance of volunteers.
New south wales The NSW team is relocating to Concord soon, where we will have a larger premises provided rent free by Concord Hospital. We’ve got an open day happening there on Sunday, 13 September, and we’ll be joined by a bunch of our sponsors. Everyone is invited and there will be info and activities for veterans, their partners and their kids! In NSW we have also had fundraisers competing in the City2Surf and veterans attending our Mens and Womens Weekends. Our team has been reaching out beyond Sydney and its surrounds with events in Nowra, Newcastle, the Blue Mountains, Shoalhaven and Wollongong.
6
SOLDIER ON Spring 2015
South Australia Cycling has been booming in South Australia, with many veterans joining social rides as a way to enhance their rehabilitation or show their support for our wounded. We welcome our new Reintegration Officer, Mark, who will help to nurture this program as well as connect more veterans and families with support. A recent family day at the zoo was successful and look out for events being planned around Veterans Health Week in October. The South Australian team will also be holding a fundraising family ride day on the 8th of November so dust off the bikes and join us for a great day at Torrens Parade Ground. Plans are being prepared for the opening of a northern Reintegration and Recovery Centre at Edinburgh Park combining with the Peter Badcoe VC Complex and Ex Military Rehab Centre. This exciting new facility will be the hub of our operations going forward and we look forward to forming closer ties to the Edinburgh Defence Precinct (EDP). A huge thank you to the members of the EDP for their incredible generosity at the recent gate collections where $2900.00 was raised in just over 2 hours, we are grateful for your ongoing support. We would also like to thank the management, staff, players and supporters of the Onkaparinga Rugby Union Football club for their support at the recent charity match played on July 4th. The club raised over $7,000.00 on the day and played some courageous football winning a hard fought “A” Grade game against a gallant Brighton side.
Queensland We are hard at work setting up in Queensland, with our first staff member, Karleen, hitting the ground running in Currumbin. There has been some great fundraising organised by Currumbin RSL, who assisted Soldier On in their set up, and many runners in the Townsville Running Festival competed in support of Soldier On. Last month, Soldier On was one of the grateful recipients of fundraising from the KPMG Rotary Kokoda Classic, which saw hundreds participate on one of the world’s only beach runs. We’ve also had a Golf Day and coffee catch ups at the Gold Coast, with many more events in the works.
Western Australia After the departure of our State Manager who has joined a local veteran in a new venture, we will be recruiting a replacement very soon. Thanks to CSIRO, we’ll also be moving to a new premises soon, watch this space for updates!
Victoria
In the meantime, we have some amazing fundraisers in WA, with a Golf Day by Professionals Real Estate on 30 October and a supporter setting out soon to walk all the way around Australia. A veteran himself, Royce will spend the next 24 months circling Australia with his dog Trigger, a two year-old pedigree Blue American Staffy. They’ve already raised $15,000 and they haven’t even started yet! You can support them at https://soldieron.giveeasy. org/campaigns/trigers-big-trek/
Soldier On has signed the lease on a new premises in Melbourne, which is scheduled to be opened soon and launch next year. After a popular family day, more veterans are connecting with support. We also want to thank the Melbourne Military Officers Ball for their support, as they raised more than $50,000 for Soldier On in August – a great result that they’ve achieved three years running. Helping our wounded warriors
7
Riding recover to
A group of six ex-service men and women, who had achieved so much serving in the Defence Force and Federal Police, faced one of the toughest battles of their lives. Along for the ride, they were joined by comedian Hamish Blake and world champion cyclist Cadel Evans on a journey they are sure to never forget.
S
election began on a warm Sydney morning in January, with 10 riders gathered to compete for a spot on the Soldier On Trois Etapes team. Put through their paces by renowned Tour de France coach Scott Sunderland, the determined men and women battled the inclines surrounding St Ives. A group of strong contenders were whittled down to six, and with them, the 2015 TE team was born. Six months later, after two training camps, hundreds of kilometers on the bike, newly formed friendships and lots of sweat and just a few tears, the team found themselves setting off to Italy to conquer the Italian Dolomites. Most of the riders found it hard to believe that they had achieved so much in their training, Hamish Blake most of all.
Most of the riders found it hard to believe that they had achieved so much in their training, Hamish Blake most of all.
“Before I really understood what I was signing up for, I said ‘yes’ because I finally had time to really support Soldier On,” Hamish said. “It was only then I found out how difficult it was going to be, and how many muscles your legs never need to use until you start cycling.”
Upon their arrival, the team set out, acclimatising first with a few training rides with Cadel Evans, winner of the Tour de France in 2011 and Australian cycling superstar. He took them through their paces and gave them a taste of the mountains they would soon be battling. However, the riders were battling far more than those mountains, with each one of them affected by their service in some way. Some with physical injuries, and others with psychological wounds. Usually reserved for the super elite, the opportunities offered to the team were the same as any professional rider. With a team uniform, a support crew, vehicle, and a Directeur Sportif – they were set to have the ride of their lives. Team coach, Scott Sunderland, said he hoped the riders would enjoy the moments in Italy. His advice was to “Be proud of what you are doing, what you are achieving … When it’s race time, lots of emotions and anxieties will come up. That’s normal. It’s all okay. It’s all part of your journey and your experience.” He said while working with the Soldier On team, he had to fight his natural coaching urge to be more hands on and have greater control over how the riders learn and train. “If I did that, the team would just be along for the ride instead of making the ride happen themselves, and they’d get less out of the experience”, he said.
10
SOLDIER ON Spring 2015
Be proud of what you are doing,
what you are
achieving Scott Sunderland, Team coach
p Above The team on the first leg. t Left Team training. Photo Elizabeth Phillips.
Helping our wounded warriors
11
The grueling ride saw the team cover 300km in three days, climbing a combined total of 8000m. 2,200M 2,000M 1,800M 1,600M 1,400M 1,200M 1,000M 800M 600M 400M 200M 0M
2,200M 2,000M 1,800M 1,600M 1,400M 1,200M 1,000M 800M 600M 400M 200M 0M
2,200M 2,000M 1,800M 1,600M 1,400M 1,200M 1,000M 800M 600M 400M 200M 0M
Day 1
Distance: 104.5km
Today, we saw some great times from the team, and a beautiful sunny day for them to enjoy the beautiful Italian mountains. They each dug deep to finish the first leg, with some killer climbs and the longest stage of the ride.
Day 2
Distance: 98.6km
It was a battle with the elements, alongside another long ride. Rain and hail saw the stage come to an early end and the team had little time to recover from their epic ride the day before. A tough climb waited for them before their early finish,
Day 3
Distance: 49.2km
The third and final day was a daunting climb, with a steep course to ensure they wouldn’t forget about the Dolomites in a hurry. Each of the riders had a significant personal victory that final day, with every team member crossing the finish line – spent but ecstatic.
12
SOLDIER ON Spring 2015
p Top left Riders with Liz Hayes from 60 Minutes. t Centre The Dolomites. â–
This page The team riding through the picturesque Dolomites.
Helping our wounded warriors
13
p Above After the final leg, the team gathers for photos with Cadel and Hamish. u Right Family at the finish line.
14
SOLDIER ON Spring 2015
p Above The ultimate selfie for the Trois Etapes team. q Below Cadel Evans and Hamish Blake with a veteran. q Bottom The team with coach Scott Sunderland.
Directeur Sportif, Anna Vandierendonck, said she witnessed some amazing achievements from all the riders. “We brought a bunch of strangers together, who were all at a point in their lives where they needed a challenge or something to sink their teeth into. Every one of them was at a different stage of their recovery from physical and psychological wounds, and the experience has helped them in so many different ways” she said. “There was self-doubt, a lot of nerves and anxiety as they trained. Once we put them on a bike though, gave them a training schedule and a mountain to climb, what we got was an amazing group that pulled through as a team.”
I couldn’t be prouder of them, and I think the Trois Etapes will have a lasting impact on each and every one of them.
The team also raised more than $50,000 as they trained, with a very generous donation from KPMG too. Even Hamish met a supporter in Venice as he flew back to Australia, who pledged a donation right then and there in the airport. “I couldn’t be prouder of them, and I think the Trois Etapes will have a lasting impact on each and every one of them.” “The best result is that it doesn’t end there,” Anna said. “They will line up as a team once again at the Cadel Evans Great Ocean People’s Ride in January and conquer 235km at the Peaks Challenge Falls Creek in March 2016. “They will keep riding beside each other on their road to recovery.” Helping our wounded warriors
15
Transitioning out of service? Need rehabilitation? Looking for a new career? We provide tailored rehabilitation and support services across our 56 locations nationally!
www.rehabmanagement.com.au
Our specialised teams of occupational therapists, physiotherapists, registered psychologists, rehabilitation counsellors and career development practitioners, provide a range of: • Injury management services • Counselling and psychological services • Career Transition Management Coaching and becoming career ready from all aspects including; - Injury disclosure - Stress management - Self-care - Navigating the job market - Cold canvassing - Developing CVs - Using the internet and emails - Evaluating job advertisements - Interviewing skills and much more!
Rehab Management is a nationally accredited, award-winning rehabilitation provider, with over 17 years’ experience delivering injury management, training, psychological, community and job support services. We have provided services under many Department of Defence schemes for over seven years. We have an understanding of the unique ADF and DVA culture and work environment, prevalent injuries, illnesses and the impacts that military service has on members’ transition back into civilian life. For more information on how to access Rehab Management’s services please contact your local DVA representative.
Pankration, Mixed Martial Arts, Wrestling, Brazillian Jiu Jitsu Adult And Children’s Classes 914 Princes Highway, Tempe NSW 2044 Ph: 0418 282 823 www.thefightlab.com.au Proud to support and acknowledge the efforts and sacrifices of our gallant veterans.
Special offer for those who have served our country:
One Months Free Training. Blue Light brings police and youth together to provide young people with positive lifestyle alternatives and strategies to avoid becoming an offender or victim of crime. Visit www.bluelight.com.au for more info. The underlying factors governing all Blue Light activities is that they must be: • Free from alcohol • Free from drugs • Free from anti-social behaviour • and FUN!
www.salvos.org.au 13 72 58
We do more than just dance
Enable EMPLOYMENT Soldier On working to
Soldier On has recently partnered with Enabled Employment to establish an online employment portal for veterans and their partners. The site is aimed at linking all exserving men and women, both affected and unaffected by their service, with meaningful employment following discharge.
P
ositions already advertised on the site include Defence, Finance, IT, agriculture, human resources, and much more.
Education and Employment Program Coordinator, Julie Jaensch, said more than 250 veterans and their partners signed up in July alone, clearly demonstrating a need within the community.
skills are gained and described in the Defence Force” “By seeking out motivated employers through this website, you are applying for positions where people understand the skill sets of veterans and how they can contribute really amazing things to a workplace,” she said.
“We have seen some really positive results since we launched the website in April,” Julie said.
“We can also help veterans and their partners source free diploma level education, CV assistance, career coaching and much more.”
“There are so many men and women who struggle to find employment after working with Defence, due to the way
To sign up to the employment portal today, head to http://soldieron.enabledemployment.com. Helping our wounded warriors
17
Remembering our past brings rewards in the
present
In the first 12 months of its Australia in the Great War commemorative campaign, Military Shop raised more than $250,000 for Soldier On and helped hundreds of thousands of people connect to Australia’s military history.
T
he Canberra-based family company has worked in and around military commemorations for more than three decades and is leading the charge in helping Australians commemorate the Centenary of the Great War. And with 10 percent of all of its sales going directly to Soldier On, the past has certainly brought some rewards for today’s diggers. Military Shop’s Stephen Davie says the 2014-2018 AGW campaign has three key objectives: To engage; to educate; and then to let people commemorate with an understanding of the times and people we are remembering in the centenary. “Our company has been fortunate enough to be involved in many events linked to our military history – from Army’s 100th, Air Force’s 75th, Navy’s International Fleet Review, and the recent Operation Slipper welcome home. It has been our honour to help make these and other great milestones accessible to a wide range of serving and non-serving people. “We see the centenary of the Great War, and in 2015 the 100th anniversary of Gallipoli, as fantastic opportunities to engage even more people in our national story and to make even more people aware of the need to support today’s diggers.
18
SOLDIER ON Spring 2015
“Our support for Soldier On is about recognising that today’s service men and women are linked directly to this amazing military heritage. They have carried forward that tradition of service. ”We work closely with all arms of Defence and know that the work of Soldier On is making a real difference to Service personnel and their families.” Stephen says the Australia in the Great War campaign will mark the milestones from 1914 through to Armistice. But he wants it
to be about sharing an understanding not just a date. That is why he says the company “puts a hell of a lot of effort” into researching and building products that tell the factual story.
p Above Military Shop’s Stephen Davie: Sharing history and helping today’s diggers.
“The goal is not to inundate people with only dry facts or history. It is about giving people a real insight. Let’s create an interest in, and an understanding of, our history and of those who serve today.” To see more on the Australia in the Great War and Gallipoli collections visit www.agw.militaryshop.com.au. Helping our wounded warriors
19
Tough Mudder is supporting Soldier On again this year, and there are a variety of ways you can get involved. You can fundraise, volunteer or help spread the word!
F
or volunteers, once you’ve completed your shift helping out on the course, you will receive a discounted entry for the next day. If you volunteer the Saturday, you’ll run for $30 on the Sunday and if you run the Saturday, volunteering on the Sunday will get you a refund of the difference of your entry fee. For fundraisers, we’ve got a dedicated portal you can visit to set up a fundraising page (just look for the links when you sign up). We are aiming to raise $100,000 this year to get veterans in to physical challenges and encourage them to live active lifestyles. To help spread the word, please encourage your tough mates to get on board and run a Tough Mudder for Soldier On in 2015. Events will be held in the following areas:
20
SOLDIER ON Spring 2015
South East Queensland
12/13 SEPTEMBER at Sirromet Winery in Mount Cotton (30 mins from Brisbane)
Melbourne
17/18 OCTOBER at State Motorcycle Sports Complex Broadford in Broadford (55 mins from Melbourne)
Sydney
21/22 NOVEMBER at Brownlow Hill Farm in Brownlow Hill (50 mins from Sydney Airport)
Sporting partners help veterans
kick recovery
goals Since Soldier On was founded it has partnered with a variety of sporting partners, many of which have shown an enormous level of support for wounded men and women this year. Encouraging our veterans to get out and spend time with loved ones while promoting an active lifestyle, helps them deal with some of the effects of their service.
T
he sporting partnerships are all part of the Hand Up Program, which empowers veterans to have a successful and rewarding furture. Its funded through the generous support of every day Australians and proudly sponsored by Northrop Grumman. Attending a game allows these men and women to not only connect with Soldier On and the other services we have on offer, but gets them talking with others in similar situations and building informal support networks. Our first sporting partner, St Kilda Football Club, have played host to more than 100 veterans and family members since we began working together. Some of the experiences the veterans have had include meeting the team, sharing their story, attending a VIP function, and being introduced to the crowd before the game starts. All the while, they are supported by family, friends and Soldier On staff and volunteers. We’ve also been working with the Greater Western Sydney Giants, who have provided free tickets to almost 200
22
SOLDIER ON Spring 2015
veterans and family members in NSW and the ACT since the start of the year. Some of the most successful outings have been for veterans who have attended Ice Hockey matches around the country. Most had never attended games before but after their Soldier On visit, most are keen for more. The Australian Ice Hockey League, working with Perth Thunder, CBR Brave, Melbourne Ice, Melbourne Mustangs, Newcastle Northstars and Adelaide Adrenaline, have provided more than 60 tickets for our members and raised more than $1500 as part of their work for Soldier On. Finally, we have also had the opportunity to send people to Netball matches through the support of Rolfe Motors. Womens sports are a new priority for Soldier On and through this activity and a partnership with the ACT Meteors, we are working to engage more female veterans in our sporting programs. To find out more, head to soldieron.org.au/hand-up.
p Top The ACT Brumbies support Soldier On during ANZAC Day. q Left St Kilda players meet with a veteran after he shares his story before a match. q Above The Australian Ice Hockey League supporting Soldier On.
Helping our wounded warriors
23
Fundraising Australians to thank for
better wounded support Soldier On has been overwhelmed by the level of your support this year. With over 500 fundraising events since 2012 and tens of thousands donations, we would not be able to achieve our goals without you. Your donations are the largest source of funding for Soldier On. The majority of our support staff and services are funded through your amazing fundraising work. You can help us to expand our capabilities and ultimately help change more veterans’ lives. We value your continued support. THANK YOU!
24
SOLDIER ON Spring 2015
F
undraising Manager, Rhonda Robinson, says Soldier On is working on getting more information to its supporters about how their money is spent and how they can help Soldier On achieve more in the future. “Each one of our donors, fundraisers and supporters have a special place in the Soldier On family,” Rhonda said. “The reason we are helping hundreds more wounded veterans and their families is because hundreds of Australians have dug deep and donated.” Recently, participants in the Townsville Running Festival and the City2Surf in Sydney chose to support Soldier On as they trained. Hundreds donned Soldier On t-shirts and cheered on our runners. “Not only do these events provide vital funding,” Rhonda says, “but it shows our veterans that we support them whenever they might need help.” Soldier On CEO, John Bale, says he was also proud to see so many people wearing the Soldier On logo, showing their dedication to supporting serving and ex-serving men and women. “Our supporters are what makes Soldier On such a great place to work, seek support and volunteer”, John said. If you would like to see how you can support our wounded through fundraising or volunteering, makes sure to head to soldieron.org.au/get-involved.
Provides
Strong foundation For the Future of Soldier On Soldier On are thrilled to announce a new Principal In-Kind Sponsor, White Pillar - one of Australia’s best providers of payroll and human resource services and solutions.
I
n order to ensure donated money is not spent on administration, Soldier On is working tirelessly to partner with passionate organisations to secure pro-bono support. White Pillar have generously come on board to not only enable Soldier On to slash HR overheads (which means more money for our wounded), they are also encouraging all the businesses they work with to take on Soldier On as their workplace giving partner. White Pillar provides contractor salary management, company payroll, bookkeeping, and human resource services to manage all your legal compliance cost effectively. We encourage each and every one of you to get on board and support those who support our veterans. Thanks to White Pillar and all our corporate sponsors for their support! Helping our wounded warriors
25
CSIRO protects our troops on and off the
battlefield
The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) is famous for its work in research, specifically projects involving IT, the environment, health and energy. However, the CSIRO has also made some invaluable contributions to Defence.
T
hey have worked to develop new and improved body armour for our troops, enabling our service men and women to be more effective in combat. Drawing on their expertise in ceramics, researchers designed the new armour so it is as effective as its heavier counterpart, but cheaper to produce, lighter in weight and easier to wear. The new design means our serving men and women are safer and better prepared for the challenges they face on the battlefield. However, the CSIRO haven’t stopped there and are now working to assist ex-serving Australians with the challenges they face off the battlefield too. The CSIRO has facilities spanning the country, with their research spreading to every corner of Australia. In possession of vacant buildings, the CSIRO approached
26
SOLDIER ON Spring 2015
Soldier On to see how they could help. Soldier On was granted access to an empty residence in the ACT for use as a Reintegration and Recovery Centre, which was launched in March this year. The new premises quadrupled our operating space, significantly decreased our overheads, and as a result services for our wounded and their families have expanded. The second premises CSIRO is looking to grant Soldier On access to, is in Melbourne and this will have a similarly dramatic impact on how veterans are supported in that region. With the generous support of inspiring organisations such as CSIRO, Soldier On will work hard to ensure that every man and woman who has served Australia is supported when they need it. Keep an eye out for updates on how Soldier On and the CSIRO continue to work together.
The Robert Poate Centre was opened by The Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, His Excellency General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC (Retd), and Mr Hugh and Mrs Janny Poate, the parents of fallen soldier Private Robert Poate. It is located at 44 Bellenden St in Crace, off the Barton Highway.
p Above Governor General touring Robert Poate Centre. t Far left VIPs at Robert Poate Centre Opening Opening. t Left and above Gungahlin House.
Helping our wounded warriors
27
A day in the life of a Soldier On Reintegration Manager
Rob Pickersgill Rob is the Reintegration Manager in the ACT, working from the Robert Poate Centre in Crace. He speaks with veterans and family members every day and is their face-to-face contact with Soldier On. A veteran of many conflict zones himself, he is working to set up services and build relationships with other support organisations in the ACT. This is the day in the life of Rob, and it is a busy one!
28
SOLDIER ON Spring 2015
0545 0630 0745 0800 0845
Take my Great Dane for a walk (actually he walks me)
0900
Morning meeting with Centre staff and volunteers, brief team on the next few days
0915
Call a few veterans to check on them, encourage them to come for coffee
0930
Compile statistics for attendance at activities and assess their effectiveness
1000
Coffee Catch Up starts, meet and greet 20-30 veterans and their families from Defence, AFP, DFAT and Fire and Rescue
1030
Provide follow up support to people at coffee catch up and arrange one on one meetings for needs assessment and action plans
1145 1200 1300 1345 1400
Farewell final veterans and chase any loose ends regarding attending veterans’ support
1500
Compile risk assessment for upcoming activity and confirm arrangements with service providers
1600 1700 1730 1900 1930 2000 2045
Meet with representative from sponsor to discuss funding for Centre programs
At home, get the kids ready for school and have breakfast and a much needed coffee Arrive at work. Check emails that have been received overnight Prepare the schedule for the day’s activities and confirm meetings Get coffee and snacks ready for the Coffee Catch Up later that morning
Lunch time yoga begins Lunch time yoga concludes, have lunch and chat to remaining participants Sit down with veteran who dropped by for a chat Conduct teleconference with State Managers to plan upcoming activities and support programs
Close the Centre and write last few emails Take son to football and help the coach with training Finish football training and drive home Have dinner with family and share stories from the day Help my sons with their homework Relaxation time with my wife over a cup of tea
Helping our wounded warriors
29
Book Review After the Blast – an Australian Officer in Iraq and Afghanistan by Garth Callender By Soldier On volunteer Katrina B. This is the story of one Australian officer; it is also, I suspect, the story of so many more. The author, retired Major Garth Callender, Royal Australian Armoured Corps, served in Iraq (2004 and 2006) and in Afghanistan (2009/10) as did so many of his contemporaries. The terrible injuries he sustained in an IED blast in 2004 saw him as the first serious casualty of that war, but were subsequently suffered by so many others. Missile attacks; suicide bombers; the death of mates; fears and frustrations; time away from family – all were experienced by so many. However, Garth chose to tell his story and he tells it remarkably. A career move to weapons intelligence and the IED taskforce undoubtably shaped the man he now is. He writes with honesty and determination: to get the message out there – to tell it like it was – and to pull no punches. He clearly kept detailed journals and the “frank and fearless” advice that governments sometimes claim to seek can be found in this book. Garth’s views of the application of government policy – regardless of the government – and the importance given to “making a difference and saving lives” is contemporary, honest and heartfelt. Garth knows that no roles are carried out without the element of chance – “to trust that their body armour, helmets, well-practiced drills, reliance on each other – and a degree of luck – would protect them” but the larrikin humour you expect from serving personnel is apparent and moving; the more dire the circumstances, the more ready the humour. His descriptive style of an area with snipers “perhaps we could work on the policy of big desert, small bullets” is candid and droll. Or the injured soldier being medevac’d after an IED strike yet still “giving permission for his mates to use his body-building supplements” is equally dry. Garth is not afraid to voice personal opinion – and this gives the book a great conversational feel. The honesty with which he speaks of his marriage, his time away from his wife and daughters, and the decision to leave the Army are all told with candour. His astute description of PTSD “events would show that it’s not about mental weakness, it’s not about physical strength and it’s not about intelligence. It’s about individuals and circumstances and how different people react differently” comes as no surprise when you read of the confronting situations he and his teams regularly faced. His compassion and understanding, along with his fervent hope that as part of the IED taskforce “we left the problem better than we found it” makes for an excellent read. I know a lot of people will relate to his story – because it is surely, in part, theirs too.
30
SOLDIER ON Spring 2015
Soon by Jessica Love By Soldier On volunteer Katrina B. This is one of the most delightful, and insightful, childrens books I have ever had the pleasure to read. The author and illustrator is the 14 year old daughter of a serving member. Her desire for “soon” to hurry up and come once her father says he’ll be home “soon” is self-evident, but her compassion for other kids in the same situation is the message of the book as Jessica shares the happy thought that one day, eventually, ‘soon’ does come and her father returns tired but safe. Clearly a remarkably caring and entrepreneurial young lady, Jessica has offered 1% of each book sold to go to fundraising for Soldier On. The book is also in recognition of what she has cleverly called “CDF” – not the Chief of Defence Force but Children of Defence Families – an acronym I am sure CDF would happily share! With Defence Health sponsoring the publication of the book, and endorsement by the “other” CDF and Chief of Army she has certainly earnt credibility and recognition with her story. Jessica’s beautiful “thanks” to other CDF at the end of the book brought tears to my eyes; to have the kindness to thank other children for their spirit, bravery, courage, service and sacrifice is truly intuitive. As a CDF of many years ago myself, and a step mother to CDFs – thanks Jessica. A truly beautiful book that I recommend for all young CDFs!
Helping our wounded warriors
31
Our Corporate Partners Soldier On are grateful for the support of so many Corporate partners and sponsors. Please see below for the organisations that provide vital funding that keeps Solder On and its support alive.
Principal Partners
Military Shop has
handled Soldier On’s merchandise for no charge since the charity was founded in 2012. Most recently, they also donated a large sum of money as part of their Australia in the Great War campaign.
Major Partners
RSL Life Care have
generously supported full time staff for Soldier On, to enable the charity to grow and develop our programs that will help Australia’s wounded heroes.
Principal In-Kind Partners
In Kind Supporters
Strategic Partner
Legal Partner
Accounting Partner
Citadel Group, and their associated business the
Australian Business Academy and Frontier People have supported Solder On from its founding. First as a sponsor of one of Soldier On’s major events,Liam Haven’s One Foot Forward March, Citadel now provides a number of free places for veterans to gain Diploma and Certificate level qualifications. They also assist with employment support, mentoring and filling vacant positions within the Solider On team.
CSIRO is supporting
Solider On through the provision of premises for a number of our Reintegration and Recovery Centres. This has allowed Soldier On to provide expanded services to a much higher number of veterans and their families, saving many thousands of dollars on rent.
32
Southern Cross Austereo are Soldier
On’s Regional Media Partner, and assist in spreading awareness throughout their extensive network of radio and television stations. Providing free advertising and sharing the stories of our wounded, we are grateful for their generous support!
SOLDIER ON Spring 2015
Project Management Partner
ACT Fitness Partner
Champions
Associates
Lollypotz
Medibank’s Garrison Health Services
Jamieson Foley
Australia
Elgas
Audi Centre Canberra
Ainslie Group
GoodGuys Canberra
Hewlett Packard
Clubs ACT
Lockheed Martin
312-314 Hoddle Street Abbotsford VIC 3067 ABN: 47 630 987 282
T: (03) 9427 6000 E: info@mccormack.com.au
Need a car loan? Novate and save! ^
From
$427
per fortnight1 Fully maintained
!
^
Save on car purchase price
Reduce income tax
Cut fuel costs
GST savings **
Cut vehicle costs
24/7 driver support
Need help? Call us today
1300 777 600
Sign up today to receive a $250 EFTPOS Voucher* Visit fleetcare.com.au/novated-offers
Terms & Conditions 1. Quote is correct at time of publishing and is based on a 5 year lease with 20,000kms travelled per year. Prices and specifications subject to change and all quotes generated will be based on individual circumstances. ^ Some vehicle features shown in promotional image may differ from exact model used to attain fortnightly quote. ** Taking into consideration your employers accounting methods and internal policies around GST and passing on input tax credits. *EFTPOS Voucher Offer Terms & Conditions. 1. The customer must not be an existing Fleetcare novated lease client to participate in this promotion. 2. The $250 EFTPOS Voucher cannot be issued until the new customer is approved and the novated lease has settled. 3. EFTPOS Voucher will be issued via post as soon as possible following settlement. 4. Fleetcare reserves the right to cancel this offer at any time without prior notice. 5. This offer is subject to availability.
1300 777 600 Visit fleetcare.com.au/novated-offers Call