Veterans and their families in Palmerston now have access to a new weekly aquafitness program designed to support physical health, mental wellbeing and social connection, thanks to grant support from Freemasons SA & NT.
The program will give veterans, current and ex-serving Australian Defence Force members, and their families the opportunity to improve fitness, build confidence and strengthen overall wellbeing in a supportive and welcoming environment.
Weekly sessions will take place at SWELL Palmerston under the guidance of experienced exercise physiologist Sally, with activities tailored to suit a range of fitness levels and physical capabilities.
Aquafitness is widely recognised as one of the gentlest forms of exercise, making it particularly beneficial for people managing injuries, chronic pain or mobility challenges. Exercising in water reduces impact on joints while still helping participants improve cardiovascular fitness, strength and flexibility.
Fostering connection and community
Beyond the physical benefits, the program will also help foster connection and community among participants, creating opportunities to reduce social isolation and encourage ongoing peer support.
The initiative has received strong community backing, including support from Darwin Lodge of Remembrance No. 182 as part of the funding application process.
In a letter of support, the Lodge recognised Soldier On’s ‘practical and compassionate approach to enhancing the wellbeing of veterans and their families’, highlighting the value of programs that combine physical activity with social connection and psycho-social support.
‘This program is a practical example of how community partnerships can help improve the wellbeing of veterans and their families in a meaningful and lasting way,’ said Freemasons SA & NT Grand Master William Merrill.
‘Freemasons SA & NT is proud to support initiatives that not only encourage physical health, but also create opportunities for connection, confidence and peer support.
‘Programs such as this aquafitness initiative recognise the importance of bringing people together in a supportive environment. We commend Soldier On for the important work it continues to do for current and former serving Defence personnel and their families across the Northern Territory.’
Soldier On Program Engagement Officer – Northern Territory, Rob Johnstone, said the program would provide veterans and families with an important opportunity to improve wellbeing while building meaningful social connection.
‘Programs like this are about much more than exercise,’ he said.
‘They create opportunities for veterans and families to connect with others who understand their experiences, while also improving confidence, physical health and overall wellbeing.
‘Aquafitness is particularly valuable because it is accessible for people of all fitness levels and can be especially beneficial for those managing injuries, chronic pain or mobility challenges.
‘We are incredibly grateful to Freemasons SA & NT for supporting this initiative and helping us deliver meaningful programs for the veteran community in the Northern Territory.’
The aquafitness program reflects Soldier On’s ongoing commitment to supporting veterans and families through health and wellbeing initiatives that strengthen resilience, connection and quality of life.
The program is expected to run throughout 2026, with weekly sessions open to current and ex-serving ADF members and their families.
For more information about the Palmerston aquafitness program, visit Aquafitness – SWELL Palmerston
