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Real stories

Join us as we share the inspiring real-life stories of Soldier On participants and supporters.  

Exploring journeys of physical and mental recovery, reconnection with community, and career transformations, we showcase the triumphs of the veteran community.  

Keep up to date with upcoming events and program offerings with Soldier On by subscribing to our newsletter. 

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Keep up to date with news, upcoming events and program offerings with Soldier On by subscribing to our newsletter.

  • March On 2026

More than kilometres: Kym and Scott’s reasons to March On

Australians from all walks of life take part in Soldier On’s annual March On challenge – each motivated by different reasons....
  • Soldier On podcast

Through weather, warzones and what comes next – A conversation with Nathan Schubert

Veteran RAAF pilot Nathan Schubert says his ability to deal with challenging situations traces back through years....
  • Mentoring

Mentoring wisdom shaped by lived experience

Veteran Paul Pearson is a proud Yorta Yorta man who brings his lived experience to the Soldier On Mentoring Program....
  • March On 2026

Lance is Marching On for mental health

This March, Corporal Lance Purdon is signing up for Soldier On’s March On Challenge for a very personal reason....
  • Career and Education, Employment, Partners, soldier on

After the Navy: Cas Van Rythoven on adjusting to civilian work

Leaving Defence is not always seamless, but this Navy veteran found alignment with Serco....
  • Volunteer, volunteer program

Volunteer spotlight: George Sutton on community, connection and continuing to serve

Veteran George Sutton supports the veteran community as a long-standing volunteer....
  • Soldier On podcast

What therapy really looks like: Inside Soldier On’s long-term approach to mental health

Psychologist Rachael Kiely explores what therapy involves for veterans and families navigating complex trauma....
  • Participate and connect

From Air Force nurse to creative force: Bek’s journey

Bek says that leaving Defence life meant understanding what life looked like without the familiar expectations....
  • Soldier On podcast

New podcast episode: Veteran Alison Gordon on leadership, change and an unexpected second career

Alison Gordon's Defence life has taken her from Duntroon to Afghanistan...and beyond....
  • Soldier On podcast

Small steps that made the biggest difference

For former infantryman Chris Bezeg, leaving Defence meant losing a world where every day was structured....
  • Veteran support

Fly. Ride. Remember.

With his fundraising challenge now completed, veteran Ben Lambon's vision has become a story of genuine impact....
  • Podcast, Saluting Their Service

From country roots to continued service: Davina Mansfield on family, resilience and finding purpose

Davina Mansfield's reflections in the Saluting Their Service podcast remind us that values forged in Defence live on....