There’s an inherent sense of purpose and structure that comes with serving your country in the armed forces.
But for thousands of local men and women, it is apparent that one of the most challenging battles comes in adapting to everyday civilian life after completing their service.
RSL Sunshine Coast District President Tony Ferris said the strong sense of isolation often experienced by returned service men and women was highly concerning, and had prompted RSL Sunshine Coast and Regional District Branch to host the Veteran, Families and Community Expo on Sunday, 23 July at the Lake Kawana Community Centre.
“For many who leave the armed forces there is an overwhelming feeling that their loved ones and those around them will never really understand the world they have come from which, in many cases, is true,” Mr Ferris said.
“Whether you have served in war zones or have spent your life on military bases, the world our veterans are accustomed to operates quite differently to that of a civilian, and that adjustment can be very difficult ― not only for the veteran but also for their loved ones.”
“Our inaugural event last year demonstrated there was a need to provide a forum for veterans of any age and their families located between Caboolture and Gympie to learn more about managing this transition.”
“Whether they attend the event for an hour or the full day, there will be a great deal of information on offer from more than 50 exhibitors and eight keynote speakers who form part of this year’s program.”
The event will provide information on everything from services such as assistance dogs and transport options to community activities such as surf lifesaving, volunteering and woodworking.
“All exhibitors are already working with veterans and understand how important it is to have a strong support base when transitioning back into a civilian life.”
“In addition to the exhibitors we are also pleased to have RSL Australia (Queensland branch), mental health support service Blue Hope and Veterans Homelessness delivering a program of informative presentations from 10am to 4pm.”
Mr Ferris said he encouraged both older veterans and younger service men and women to attend the forum, with the key topics relevant for veterans of all ages.
“We are keen to reach as many people as possible and believe that the forum will provide another opportunity for veterans to access information surrounding health services, the provision of emergency accommodation and transport, and dealing with mental health issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).”
“It is not a pre-requisite to be an RSL member or a returned service man or woman to participate in this event as we know family, friends and the wider community will also be keen to learn what support and services are available.”
“While we provide this event primarily for veterans, we also realise that there are a number of other occupations such as police officers, firefighters and ambulance officers that experience similar stresses. We encourage them to come along too ― even if they just get one tip that may help, it’s a worthwhile exercise.”
The expo is a free event and will take place from 10am to 4pm on Sunday, 23 July with the Sunshine Coast Council mayor officially opening the event at 10.30am. There will be a sausage sizzle, coffee cart and fun activities for the children as well. For more information visit www.rslsunshinecoast.org/rsl-events.
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Media contact: Maya Gurry – Fresh PR & Marketing P: 0410 109 102 E: maya@freshprm.com.au
