Veterans Health Week 2021
Veterans’ Health Week is always supported by the Sub-Branch, and this year it was walks along the Bibbulmun Track from Mundaring and a guided walk through the bush tracks of Araluen Botanic Park. These were designed to cater for the capability of participants and our qualified First Aid Members were present to provide support if it was needed. The weather on both days was fine, and ideal for a walk.
Outcome
Veterans’ Health week provided the Sub-Branch with an opportunity for members to do something different and experience Perth’s bush environment, whilst building teamwork. Both walks were followed by a light lunch, at members expense, and a relaxing return home.
The outcome for our Sub-Branch in undertaking the broad range of activities is improved teamwork and understanding amongst members, the opportunity to have shared experiences and breaking down of barriers so asking for help, if needed, is the norm.
For those Members who are unable to participate, we ensure that they are kept “in the loop” by continuous communication, newsletters and personal visits just to see how they are, and whether they need a hand.
It is the initiative of the Department of Veteran Affairs in supporting veterans’ health and Sub-Branch activities and events that contribute to an effective and cohesive Sub-Branch, member health and wellbeing.
Bibbulmun Track
Forty members bussed to Mundaring Weir on October 22nd for a walk across the Weir, and on the Bibbulmun Track. Members made their way along part of the Track at their own pace in groups and enjoyed the bush and wildflowers out in bloom. It provided our members with an appreciation of the Bibbulmun Track, one of the most challenging walks in Australia
Araluen Botanic Park
Thirty members made their way to Araluen by bus and were greeted by the Park’s Tour Guides. Following a briefing on the history of Araluen, all members were lead through bush tracks into the heart and around the perimeter of the Park. The walk consisted of rough tracks that took in all types of terrain and provided participants with a great understanding of the Park and the surrounding district. Those members who were unable to undertake the whole walk, were lead on an alternative walk designed for individual capability.