ABOVE: Barry Riddiford.
Innovation often sprouts from personal interests, hobbies, or as responses to the challenges individuals encounter in their own lives. This principle applies equally when it comes to supporting our local communities.
Open Door Adventures on another journey with Australian Veterans
Allow me to introduce Barry Riddiford, a Wiradjuri Elder residing in Townsville. Barry’s work as Director, Open Door Adventures, is aimed at supporting struggling veterans in their transition back to civilian life. I find his story is truly inspiring and would like to share with you his holistic approach to addressing the well-being of Veterans and their families, encompassing physical, psychological, and social aspects, and a deep commitment to their welfare. As an advocacy organisation we often work with older veterans and veterans with disability to help uphold their rights, and we were lucky enough to have Barry work with us as an advocate at ADA Australia for a time. The genesis of Barry’s current work can be traced back to a childhood dream and a twist of fate. As Barry
recollects, he aspired to join the Army after completing boarding school. This was during the conclusion of the Vietnam War, and many veterans were returning home. However, Barry’s mother had different plans. Unbeknownst to Barry, he had been accepted into Portsea Officer Training School, a fact he only learned much later in life when his mother confessed to having burned his acceptance letter (presumably, the statute of limitations has long since passed). This redirection set Barry on a new path, leading him to become an educator, a leader, and a communicator within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations and communities. Barry’s personal journey and the redirection of his aspirations from a military career to education and community leadership is a testament to the impact of serendipity and life experiences on our paths. His fascination with the Australian
