Testimonials

“Buddy Up Australia has been such a great organisation to be a part of. I have bushwalked, paddle boarded, rode, sketched and painted for the sheer physicality and/or enjoyment of connecting with a great bunch of ex-service and emergency service people and their families, cooked for the homeless and raised money to support similar activities for other veterans. Thanks for the opportunities and comradeship”.

“I am so glad I joined as a Chapter Leader! To find an organisation that not only gets me and speaks my language but has such a huge capacity for empathy and passion to involve all of our defence and first responder members AND their families, regardless of time served, experiences, rank or physical and mental health capabilities. I want as many people as possible to know how much joy and fun has returned to my life through my involvement with Buddy Up.”

"When I joined the ADF I did so to serve my country. When I separated from the ADF I missed the sense of purpose and fulfilment you get from serving your country and supporting your mates - something more than earning a wage.

The Greek philosopher Aristotle once said that the essence of life is 'to serve others and do good'. Once I realised that, my life outside of the ADF changed for the better."

“It’s a very simple way to give back to our community and the sense of achievement from volunteering for such a fantastic cause is empowering.

To put it simply, I organise and run events that I enjoy and have benefited me in my journey. If I organise activities that I love, my passion comes through for that particular event which is infectious. I utilise my contacts to supply activities beneficial to our community and usually find once the cause is explained, the time/service is donated or heavily reduced in price. I organise regular physical activities and social events for our members.”

“Discovering that Buddy Up not only wants to create good experiences at all levels, but also about Enriching the lives of Veterans, First Responders plus Family and Friends, really spoke to my values and my heart for helping others do what they can't do on their own. Plus you know coffee :-) I have already experienced the Mateship and understanding even with some of my own challenges and I'm excited to see what will be achieved in the future with some new events being added to the Buddy Up calendar. I recommend Veterans and First response people to check out the free membership and see what adventure might be available for you to try.”

“Such an important organisation, bringing those who have served together in a space of support and community.”

“After leaving the Defence Force and running a few businesses of my own, what I was doing still didn't feel like home for me. I was after the Mateship and Camaraderie that we get in the Forces and Emergency Services that I was missing. Once I found Buddy Up Australia, I resonated with their values and the main aim is to just get people out, moving, socialising, helping in the community and meeting like-minded people in a very caring and safe environment. If you are looking to fill a void since serving our country then I highly recommend connecting with Buddy Up Australia and finding your nearest chapter”.

“When I left the Police Force after a decade of service, I was excited, nervous and very busy running my own business. However, there came a time where I started to feel a little lost; I was missing my former colleagues, struggling to find my true purpose in the civilian world, and trying to figure out where I belong. Buddy Up has provided me with a community of people who share a common background; these shared / similar experiences have helped me re-connect with a previous chapter of my life that was incredibly rewarding, as well as challenging. Reconnecting with current / ex-service personnel through physical / wellness events is perfect for me because participating in physical fitness activities is what I focus on to look after my own mental health and wellness in general. Thank you Buddy Up! You guys rock :)”

“I am a Navy Veteran and because of my Mental health struggles I don't really leave the house especially socially, however since joining buddy up and forming friendships within the group I have attended a number of their events. It is great to be surrounded with like-minded people were there is no judgement or expectations. What's even better is it's not just me that benefits but also my children as they attend many of the events with me so as a single parent it is really inclusive. This is definitely having a positive effect on my mental health. Everyone is just so kind and welcoming. I am grateful to be a part of this group and would encourage anyone considering joining to just do it - you won't be disappointed. Thank you Buddy Up.”