People from all over Australia take part in Soldier On’s annual March On challenge, each motivated by different reasons that are often inspired by a deep connection to family, community and the desire to support veterans’ mental health.
For some, it’s a way to honour those who have served in past generations, while for others, it’s a tangible way to contribute to the wellbeing of today’s Defence families.
Kym Bina
Kym Bina is returning for her second year of March On, motivated by a desire to make a meaningful contribution beyond her professional life.
‘I signed on for the March On challenge for a second year because it’s a challenge with real meaning behind it,’ she says. ‘I spend my days helping people build stronger, more sustainable businesses, but this felt like a chance to contribute to something bigger than myself. Our veterans have carried so much for this country; the least I can do is walk in their honour.’
After completing 96 kilometres in her first year, Kym has doubled her target for 2026, committing to 192 kilometres across the month to raise funds. ‘I committed to 96 km in my first year, so I extended my challenge by doubling it for my second year in fundraising efforts,’ she says.
Her motivation is also deeply personal. ‘I’m not a veteran myself, but we’re an ex-defence family (my husband served in the Army for 13 years) and have other family and friends who’ve served,’ Kym says. ‘I’ve seen the ripple effects that service can have on individuals, families, and communities. Their stories, both the pride and the challenges, have stayed with me. Supporting Soldier On feels like a way to honour them all and the thousands of others who’ve walked similar paths.’
Kym works in virtual administration as the Director of her own Canberra-based business, VPA Support Pty Ltd. She sees supporting veterans’ mental health as an issue for all Australians
‘Veterans’ mental health isn’t a niche issue; it’s a national responsibility. These are people who stepped forward when the country asked them to. The transition back to civilian life can be incredibly tough, and too many veterans face that journey without the support they deserve,’ she says.
‘When we invest in their wellbeing, we’re investing in stronger families, stronger communities, and a more compassionate Australia. It matters to me because no one who has served should ever feel forgotten or alone.’
Taking part in March On also gives Kym a chance to involve her wider community. ‘I’m taking part as an individual, but I’m definitely not walking alone. I’ve got friends, clients, and colleagues cheering me on, and I’m hoping a few will join me for sections of the walk. Community is everything, and this challenge is another wonderful excuse to bring people together for a meaningful cause.’.
Just as she did in 2025 (pictured, right) Kym will track her progress in this year’s challenge through the Soldier On app and share updates with her networks, encouraging donations along the way.
‘Every dollar counts, and every donation is a message of support for our veterans,’ she says.
Scott Atkinson
For Winmalee, NSW local Scott Atkinson, March On 2026 is his first time taking part. He heard about the challenge through social media and immediately felt compelled to get involved. ‘It popped up in my Facebook feed. When I saw it there, I thought it’s something that is a very significant issue. It’s something that needs more awareness and a lot more investment financially.’ he says.
Scott works for BrightSky Australia, commuting a few days a week to the Sydney office. The company has contracts with the Department of Veteran Affairs and provides medical consumables and support to Defence families.
‘I’ve always had a large level of respect for veterans,’ Scott says. ‘I’ve got family that have fought in World War Two, World War One, and a few of my friends have served. We all understand the level of commitment made by veterans, and I have a high level of respect for anyone who puts their life on the line for the defence of our country and other countries’
Scott plans to complete his 96 kilometres across March in his own time, using walks in his Blue Mountains neighbourhood and joking that the hilly terrain will make the challenge tougher.
But despite that added effort, Scott says he is happy to support March on because it helps make a tangible difference while honouring the service and sacrifice of veterans.
His enthusiasm has inspired colleagues at BrightSky Australia to cheer him on, with several planning to join March On as part of the BrightSky Australia team.
‘A few people at work said, “we should get involved too”,’ he says. ‘So, we’ll see what we can do within the fundraising side of things.’
For Scott, March On is about making a tangible difference while honouring the service and sacrifice of veterans.
‘Knowing the significance of the issue we’re talking about now, I might look at getting some photos from my walks on social media as well to raise more awareness,’ he says, highlighting his commitment to community, visibility and encouragement.
Get involved
March On is open to everyone. Walk or run 96 kilometres across March and help support veterans and their families. Register to be part of it here or donate here.
