The Veterans' & Families' Centre

03/06/2026

Repeated flooding issue. The centre is currently closed due to safety concerns. Please contact 0406 429 184

02/06/2026

Kookaburra Kids has two TAS activities coming up in June for Defence Kids.

13 June: Circus Workshop TAS, Hobart
27 June: Day at the Lea TAS, Hobart

Both activities include fun group activities and mental health education.

To refer a young person:
https://kookaburrakids.org.au/get-involved/refer/

Registered families can book here:
https://kookaburrakids.org.au/booking-system/

More details:
https://kookaburrakids.org.au/whats-on/circus-workshop-tas/
https://kookaburrakids.org.au/whats-on/day-at-the-lea-tas/

02/06/2026

Last week we were lucky to have Joe and Dale, Community and Peer Workers from Open Arms - Veterans & Families Counselling, visit the Centre, along with Paddy the support parrot.

It is always wonderful when Joe comes in to spend time with our community, and we are also very pleased to welcome Dale, who has recently moved to Tasmania.

Open Arms Peers play such an important role in supporting veterans and families. Through their own lived experience, they walk alongside others, helping people feel understood, connected, and supported.

Paddy was also a very special visitor and a lovely reminder of the comfort and connection support animals can bring.

We would love to see your support animals too. Share a photo in the comments if you would like to introduce them. 🦜🐾

01/06/2026

A quick reminder about the Well Beyond Service women’s veteran program, happening 10 to 13 July 2026 in Musselroe Bay.
This fully funded program includes transport from Launceston, accommodation, food, wellness activities, connection, and time with the equine crew.
For more information, please email [email protected]

Well Beyond Service - Women’s Veteran program.
10-13 July 2026, Musselroe Bay, Tasmania.

Supported by the fantastic team at The Veterans’ & Families’ Centre 🙌🏻

🔵 Come join us for a four-day program in the peaceful and picturesque North-East Tasmania. The program provides an opportunity to slow life down, enjoy delicious food, meet great people and interact with our equine crew (no riding) 🐴

🟢 Focusing on wellness beyond our service roles, the program explores fun and functional ways to build relationships and manage stress.

🔵 This fully-funded program is free for participants, departing from and returning to Launceston.

For further information and to secure a limited place around the fireplace.
Please email - [email protected]

29/05/2026

🏃‍♂️🏃‍♀️ Parkrun Morning! 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️

Whether you're in Tasmania or on the mainland, there are some incredible Parkrun tracks waiting to be explored. From coastal paths and bushland trails to community parks and riverside routes, Parkrun is a fantastic way to stay active, connect with others and enjoy the outdoors.

If you're a veteran or family member, why not sign up to Team Veteran through Invictus Australia? It is a great way to be part of a supportive community that understands the power of connection, movement and shared experiences.

We also have a limited number of Team Veteran shirts available in selected sizes for veterans and family members who are dedicated Parkrun participants. Once they're gone, they're gone!

See you on the start line! 💚💛
Burnie pBurnie parkrunsInvictus Australiarun

28/05/2026

💛🖤At The Veterans’ & Families’ Centre we welcome the decision to reinstate funding for Invictus Australia and the life changing programs they provide to veterans and families across Australia.

Sport is far more than physical activity. It creates connection, purpose, identity and belonging for many veterans navigating life after service.

For our own Jo Lovell, an Invictus competitor representing Team Australia, adaptive sport became a powerful part of rehabilitation, recovery and reconnecting with community. Through Invictus, Jo has found friendship, support, challenge and a renewed sense of belonging alongside other veterans who truly understand the journey.

We know firsthand the impact programs like this have, not only on veterans, but on families, children and entire communities.

The veteran community spoke strongly over recent weeks and this outcome shows the power of collective voices, lived experience and community connection.

To everyone who shared their story, advocated and stood together, thank you.

We are stronger together and proud to continue supporting veterans and families through connection, wellbeing and community.

We are Unconquered Together.
Invictus Australia

Invictus Australia welcomes the Government’s decision to reinstate funding for our programs.

This outcome ensures support for veterans and families through sport can continue, and we are grateful for the recognition of the role this work plays in strengthening wellbeing across the veteran community.

“As soon as I engaged with adaptive sport and Invictus Australia, I found that sense of belonging again. I honestly hate to think how I would be now if not for them, because it’s not an exaggeration to say they are life savers, they were my beacon in the dark.”
— Luke McCallum, Veteran & Invictus Games alumni

Stories like Luke’s helped make clear why this work matters.

Over the past few weeks, the strength of the Invictus community has been clear. You shared your stories. You spoke up. You reminded Australia that sport, connection and community can change lives.

This decision reflects the power of our community that continues to stand behind connection, recovery and support for those who have served.

To everyone who stood with us - thank you.

We are Unconquered Together.

Read the full statement on our website.

27/05/2026

What an amazing experience…

Do you have a young adult (14-17 yo) looking for an incredible adventure? And ticking off a major objective of The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award?

The tall ship STV Windeward Bound has just opened bookings for a 10 day sail in the school holidays.

A veteran owned Tasmanian business that champions young Australians through adventure, team work and sailing skills!

Parents can then enjoy a few nights at The Veterans Retreat or Wellveing Centre 😉

Don't miss out.

27/05/2026

Our phones are down
Please call
0406 429 184

26/05/2026

🙏🙏🙏
Cam Baird VC MG

The parents of slain ADF soldier Cameron Baird will retain their travel allowances tied to their son’s posthumous Victoria Cross following backlash from the veteran community, Sky News can reveal.

25/05/2026

Have you heard about this place…it is a great escape for Veterans. Tasmanian Veterans Association volunteers ensure it’s a great break for all who stay. We love this place!