Meaningful connections play an important role in supporting veterans and their families as they navigate life beyond service. Through its valued partnership with Soldier On, Service Stream is helping create opportunities for veterans to reconnect, share experiences and build supportive relationships through a range of community events and activities.
Two recent gatherings in South Australia and the Northern Territory brought veterans and their families together to enjoy great food, hear from respected guest speakers and strengthen the sense of camaraderie and belonging that remains so important long after military service has ended.
Dinner is Served with Brigadier Mick Burgess
On Saturday 4 July, Soldier On South Australia welcomed 30 participants and their families to the historic Navy, Military and Air Force Club of South Australia for an evening of connection, conversation and community.
Set within one of Adelaide’s most significant military institutions, the dinner provided veterans and their families with the opportunity to reconnect, share experiences and enjoy an evening in the company of others who understand the unique nature of military service and life beyond it.
The evening featured a thought-provoking presentation from Brigadier Mick Burgess, who explored the many transitions we experience throughout life – from military service and career changes to relocation, marriage, family, grief and personal growth. His reflections on navigating change resonated strongly with attendees, with many describing the presentation as both inspiring and deeply relatable.
Just as meaningful as the keynote was the opportunity for participants to come together in a formal setting. While Soldier On regularly delivers family activities, wellbeing initiatives and specialist programs, many attendees shared that evenings like this hold a special significance. For some, it had been many years since they had attended a dinner that reflected the traditions, camaraderie and sense of belonging they experienced during their military service.
The event highlighted the value of creating spaces where veterans and families can reconnect with old friends, build new relationships and strengthen their support networks. The overwhelmingly positive feedback reinforced that these shared experiences continue to play an important role in wellbeing, connection and community.
Soldier On South Australia Program Engagement Manager Charmaine McClounan said the evening demonstrated the importance of creating opportunities for veterans and families to come together in meaningful ways.
‘One of the things we hear time and again is how valuable it is for veterans and families to simply spend time together with people who understand their experiences,’ Charmaine says.
‘The conversations that happen over a shared meal can be just as important as any formal presentation. They help people reconnect, build friendships and remind them they are part of a supportive community.’
Charmaine says the overwhelmingly positive feedback reinforced the importance of continuing to provide opportunities that foster connection alongside Soldier On’s health, wellbeing, employment and learning programs.
‘Events like this create a sense of belonging that stays with people long after the evening has ended. That’s why creating opportunities for veterans and families to connect will always be an important part of what we do.’
Lunch is Served with LTCOL Peter Zimmerman
Soldier On Northern Territory welcomed 33 veterans and family members to Lunch is Served for an afternoon of connection, conversation and learning.
Among those in attendance were former Northern Territory Administrator and Soldier On Ambassador Hugh Heggie and his partner, along with Luke Gosling MLA, who attended with his mother and son, highlighting the strong community support for the veteran community.
The event featured a presentation by Lieutenant Colonel Peter Zimmerman, Senior Medical Officer with 1st Health Battalion in Darwin and co-owner of Veterans Medical Group at the Veterans’ and Families’ Wellbeing Centre. Drawing on his extensive experience, LTCOL Zimmerman spoke about moral injury, the challenges of providing healthcare within the Australian Defence Force and some of the current health issues affecting serving members, including the impacts of declining fitness and changing health profiles.
His presentation sparked thoughtful discussion among attendees, who appreciated the opportunity to hear from a highly respected clinician with firsthand experience supporting Defence personnel and veterans.
Alongside the keynote presentation, the event provided valuable time for veterans and families to reconnect, share experiences and enjoy meaningful conversations over lunch. Guests also witnessed the presentation of a ‘Quilt for Hero’ to a retiring nurse and colleague of LTCOL Zimmerman, adding a heartfelt moment of recognition to the afternoon.
Soldier On Northern Territory Program Engagement Manager Rob Johnstone said the event demonstrated the value of bringing veterans and families together in an environment where meaningful conversations can take place.
‘Events like this are about much more than sharing a meal. They create opportunities for veterans and families to connect, learn from one another and strengthen the relationships that support wellbeing long after the event has finished,’ Rob says.
‘Peter’s presentation generated thoughtful discussion, and it was fantastic to see people staying afterwards to continue those conversations and reconnect with others in the veteran community.’
The event received overwhelmingly positive feedback, with attendees praising the quality of the food, the engaging presentation and the opportunity to connect with others in the veteran community. Luke Gosling MLA also acknowledged the event on social media, recognising both Soldier On and Service Stream for their support of veterans and their families.
‘At Service Stream, we are honoured to partner with Soldier On and support programs that create opportunities for veterans and their families to connect, engage and thrive,’ said James Smith 🌈, Senior Manager Diversity, Equity & Inclusion.
‘We are proud to support events like this, keeping communities connected across our national footprint.’
Service Stream’s support of events like these helps Soldier On continue delivering meaningful social, wellbeing, learning and family experiences for veterans and their loved ones across Australia. Whether over lunch, dinner or through one of the many other programs offered throughout the year, these opportunities create lasting connections, strengthen support networks and help veterans and families thrive beyond service.
To find an activity near you, visit our Soldier On events page.
