A place and space where no veteran is alone
The property offers a safe, family-friendly environment. Image: Ross Swanborough
You don’t get much further from the challenges of an operational war zone than amid the tranquility of natural bushland in the Darling Ranges southeast of Perth.
But that’s exactly where the Recovery & Restoration Veteran Transition Centre (VTC) in Jarrahdale has established itself. And it’s enjoying a major boost in supporting veterans and their families into the future with a new partnership with RSLWA.
It is no stretch of reality that some lives have, and are, being restored there – even saved. As one veteran, who wishes to remain anonymous due to ongoing mental health and substance-abuse issues, put it: “For me, this facility came out of the blue at just the right time in my life – probably saved it!”
And another: “The centre for me has been life-changing. Every day I wake up, and I am thankful and grateful. I did not ask for this! I was struggling, but I was doing OK. They saw I needed more help and simply gave it to me openly.”
The ongoing transformation of the 17-hectare property, just a stone’s throw from the historic town of Jarrahdale, will see a positive transformation to
the lives of veterans – many who’ve experienced the effects of a significant number of deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan and other conflicts.
Eventually, it is hoped that the VTC becomes a place where any veteran, whatever their background, can attend - be it for a relaxing weekend away with their partner and kids in
a family-friendly environment, or simply engaging in a wide range of activities and programs. Bordering state forest, the acreage is private and serene, with many walking/cycling trails and quiet-time areas.
“The centre for me has been life-changing. Every day I wake up, and I am thankful and grateful.”
Run by veterans, for veterans, the property has a number of self-contained chalets, two-bedroom cabins, dormitories, recreational and sports facilities, community halls, meeting places and a functions facility, wih some currently being worked on!
The VTC was struggling to meet its financial commitments, improve the condition of the property and provide services to veterans. So its directors approached RSLWA for support, which used funds from its Bequest account to purchase the property and lease it back to the VTC on a long-term agreement – providing certainty to the veterans who run the centre and supporting initiatives well into the future.
The key focus of the recovery and restoration centre is simple – to assist veterans to transition from active service into a successful civilian life and career. In doing so, centre staff aim to help veterans to address mental health and other challenges in a caring environment. There is no judgment, just understanding and an extensive network of professionals on tap who are ready and willing to help.
Existing collaborations are already producing positive outcomes. A representative for workplace rehabilitation specialist Incite Solutions
says: “Due to the commitment and dedication of the team at the transition centre, we have developed a successful working partnership which is resulting in some fantastic transformations for our clients.
“Our clients have reported that they feel safe, connected and understood, while also building new friendships and opportunities as they improve their health and wellbeing.
“For many of our clients this journey can be extremely challenging and having community agencies that truly place the recovery of veterans at the centre of what they do, is inspiring.”
RSLWA is also working closely with VTC management to develop a collaborative model to help deliver additional veteran support services.
The VTC management team consists of current and former ADF, as well as legal and pastoral personnel. The centre’s Operations Team consists of Alan & Beth Somers, both Navy veterans who have both experienced differing transitions.
“We aim to make the VTC a welcoming and friendly place for all current and former military members and their families. Whether you are visiting for an hour, a day or a week, we look forward to seeing you in this fantastic location”
Former RSLWA Chief Executive Officer John McCourt said the purchase had been timely considering the recent release of the Afghanistan inquiry by the Australian Defence Force Inspector General.
He said the purchase was an extension of existing mental health, welfare and wellbeing services being offered at its new ANZAC House Veteran Central facility in the Perth CBD.
“RSLWA has been heavily involved in the Jarrahdale facility or some time and made the decision to purchase the entire property to allow the VTC to keep on with their excellent work and with our enduring support,” Mr McCourt said.
“RSLWA is ready to stand by any veteran and their family affected by the current fallout of the IGADF inquiry.”
The Jarrahdale property will also host other community-based activities and entities, including a proposed new RSLWA Veteran Hub, St John of God outreach services, facilities for homeless veterans, local wellness groups and more.