Meet Deon Ferreira, a veteran undertaking an epic 940km kayaking journey along Australia’s East Coast to raise awareness and funds for Soldier On.
Deon, a former Rifleman with the 5th Battalion Royal Australian Regiment (5RAR), has embarked on a monumental challenge: a 940km kayak expedition from Bribie Island, Queensland, to Sydney Harbour. On this 23-day trek, Deon is physically unsupported, relying on virtual support from his partner Emily and a multitude of friends and family around the globe. His journey, which began on 13 September, is more than a test of physical endurance. It is a mission to support Soldier On, an organisation he says, “I wish I had reached out to when I was transitioning from full-time service.”
From the Battlefield to Civilian Life
Deon’s military career began in 2016 when he enlisted in the Australian Defence Force (ADF) at the age of 27. Reflecting on his time in service, he recalls, “For the most part, I had a great time. I learned a lot, I trained and worked hard, did some cool things, and made lifelong friends.”
As his Return of Service Obligation (ROSO) ended in 2020, Deon felt it was time for a new chapter. However, transitioning to civilian life was no easy feat. “The job market was uncertain due to COVID-19, and many of my close friends had moved away from Darwin,” he shares. “There was also a lingering question of whether returning to civil engineering was the right choice for me.” Adding to this was the unprocessed mental toll of his deployment to Iraq in 2020.
Despite these challenges, Deon found that the skills he developed in the ADF – resilience, accountability, teamwork, and emotional regulation under stress – became invaluable in civilian life. “These traits can propel you forward once you get your foot in the door,” he says.
Ocean Bound
Deon’s love for kayaking began over a decade ago. “I wasn’t particularly skilled, nor was my craft, but I enjoyed it,” he says. His passion grew over the years, particularly after spending time in New Zealand, where he explored remote beaches.
Now, after two years of focused kayak training, Deon is taking on his biggest challenge yet in his epic paddle along Australia’s East Coast. “Each leg of the journey is manageable on its own, but doing it day after day, with fatigue and aches setting in, will be tough,” he explains. With larger swells, unpredictable weather, and even the presence of Great White sharks, Deon knows the journey will be both rewarding and isolating.
Preparation has been key. Deon has timed the trip with optimal weather, mapped daily routes, and planned resupply points. He’s also secured the right gear, thanks to Richard at The Paddle Shop in Warana, who provided an Epic V8 Tourer kayak, a Vaikobi PFD, and Epic Carbon Fiber paddles. “The team at The Paddle Shop have been incredibly helpful and motivating,” Deon says.
How to Donate to Soldier On
Deon’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that with determination and support, veterans can navigate tough transitions and continue to thrive. You can support Deon’s fundraising efforts here: Fundraiser by Deon Ferreira : The Big Paddle for Soldier On (gofundme.com), where he has already raised over $5,000!
