Soldier On is proud to launch a new partnership with Outward Bound Australia, offering a two-day adventure weekend designed to help veterans and their family members reconnect, reset and build confidence together through shared outdoor challenges.
The tailored Adventure Weekend will run from Saturday 31 January to Sunday 1 February, held at Outward Bound’s national base on the Murrumbidgee River in Tharwa, ACT. Outward Bound is managing all registrations and will collect medical and dietary information directly from participants after sign-up.
This new collaboration brings together Outward Bound’s decades of experience in outdoor education and Soldier On’s commitment to strengthening the social connection, resilience and wellbeing of Australia’s veteran community.
‘Outward Bound programs are designed to help participants step away from everyday pressures, bring fresh perspectives and provide a chance to reflect and reset. Participants relax, unwind and challenge themselves in new, fun and adventurous ways,’ says the organisation’s Head of Community, Ian Wells.
And as they look forward to celebrating their 70th birthday in 2026, it’s clear the Outward Bound team have the experience to deliver a program that will have something for everyone.
‘Whether it’s encouraging each other on the high ropes, cooking together over a fire, or simply going for a walk, these experiences build confidence, trust and connection. We’ve designed this program in collaboration with Solider On to help families leave feeling stronger, closer, and more connected with themselves, their families and wider community.’
Registrations are now open
Outward Bound is handling all registrations for this program.
Participants can sign up here:
Veterans’ Connection Weekend with Soldier On – Outward Bound Australia Reservations
With registrations sure to fill quickly, spreading the word and encouraging early sign-ups will help ensure the program reaches those who will benefit most.
Why this weekend matters
This program is designed specifically for veterans and their families (aged 12+). It focuses on:
• rebuilding connection through shared experiences
• stepping outside comfort zones in a supportive environment
• strengthening communication and trust
• enjoying the mental health benefits of time in nature
• trying new challenges with guidance from experienced instructors
Whether participants are seasoned adventurers or complete beginners, the program is designed to be achievable, engaging and confidence-building.
Indicative itinerary
Saturday 31 January:
• 10.00am – Arrival and cabin check-in
• 10.30am – Morning tea, introductions and weekend briefing
• 11.00am – Giant Ladder: family members work together to climb a suspended ladder, supported by the group
• 12.30pm – Lunch
• 1.30pm – Murrumbidgee River swim, Spider Web, Maze or Vertical Playpen (weather-dependent rotation)
• 3.00pm – Afternoon tea
• 3.30pm – High ropes course – a 10m confidence and trust challenge
• 5.00pm – Bushcook campfire dinner: roast and vegetables cooked in camp ovens (subject to fire conditions)
Sunday 1 February:
• 8.00am – Breakfast
• 8.30am – Hike to Namadgi Visitors Centre
• 10.30am – Morning tea at the Visitors Centre
• 11.00am – Paddle back to Outward Bound (water-level dependent)
• 12.30pm – Lunch at Outward Bound
• 1.00pm – Values Journey: a reflective walk along the Murrumbidgee River using guided prompts to explore personal and shared values
• 3.00pm – Program concludes
A chance to reconnect in nature
This weekend offers veterans and their loved ones the opportunity to challenge themselves, reconnect and strengthen their sense of wellbeing in a supportive and uplifting environment. Through guided adventure, shared problem-solving and time in nature, families can enjoy special time to rediscover confidence, calm and connection.
‘Our veterans and their families deserve opportunities to reconnect, to breathe and to invest in their wellbeing,’ says Soldier On CEO Paul Singer. ‘This program gives families the chance to step away from day-to-day pressures and rediscover the strength and connection that comes from shared challenge and shared purpose. We’re proud to offer an experience that supports resilience, community and the wellbeing of those who have served.’
