Hundreds of events promoting veterans’ wellbeing will kick off across South East Queensland and the Ipswich region from Saturday 16 October as part of the largest Veterans’ Health Week to date.

Federal Member for Blair and Shadow Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel Shayne Neumann said this year’s theme, “Get Moving”, will promote physical health and encourage veterans and their families to stay active.

“I’m delighted this year’s Veterans’ Health Week is the biggest yet, with ex-service organisations and community groups across South East Queensland, including Ipswich, the Somerset Region and Karana Downs, coming together to host a range of events between Saturday and the end of November,” he said.

“We know that staying active can have many flow-on benefits to our physical and mental health, and so I encourage veterans and their families in my electorate of Blair to get out and get involved in Veterans’ Health Week.

“RSL Queensland, Mates4Mates and Young Veterans Ipswich are holding several events for Veterans' Health Week, like kayaking, surfing, cycling, tree top ropes courses, orienteering, archery and roller-skating activities, just to name a few. 

“There are also a number of virtual events, including the Bravery Trek Challenge 2021 run by the Bravery Trust, which challenges veterans and their families to walk, run or cycle 100km to celebrate 100 years of the Royal Australian Air Force.

“I’d like to thank all our ex-service organisations and community groups for showing their support and putting on a host of fantastic events and activities for veterans and their families to participate in.

“With so many options to get involved and support our veteran community, I encourage everyone to check out what’s on, make connections and get moving,” Mr Neumann said.

A full list of Veterans’ Health Week events and information about how to register is available on the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) website www.dva.gov.au/vhw or calling DVA on 1800 838 372 or email [email protected].

You can also visit the RSL Queensland website at https://rslqld.org/, the Mates4Mates website at https://mates4mates.org/news/veterans-health-week-2021 or email Young Veterans Ipswich at [email protected] for more information on events in South East Queensland and Ipswich.