In The News: ADF veterans’ farm retreat On Saturday 22nd June, Member for Eden-Monaro Dr Mike Kelly visited a pioneering farm retreat in Braidwood which is helping veterans of the Australian Defence Force. The Alternate RV farm retreat – located at local property “Nithsdale” – takes its name from the military abbreviation for rendezvous and was established by former infantry soldier Dane Simmonds and his wife Anna. Motivated by his own experience, Mr Simmonds provides a safe environment for veterans who are looking for some “time out” to adjust to life after service, and helps veterans begin a career on the land. Since June last year, 15 veterans have been guests at the retreat. The Alternate RV farm retreat is set on the banks of the Shoalhaven River, and visitors stay in a beautifully renovated 1830s sandstone building known as the “Gaol”. While there, veterans can do as much or as little as they feel like but there is a strong focus on promoting emotional and physical health through farm activity. Daily activities include chopping firewood, horse training and grooming, feeding nursing cows and calves, art, woodwork and photography. The veterans stay for free, subsidised in part by produce from the farm which retails online under the trademark “Jack’s rations”. Mr Simmonds said he set out to create an environment that was “conducive to personal development and productive as a commercial farming activity”. “Management of mental and physical health for ADF personnel can continue long after their tour of duty has ended,” Mr Simmonds said. “Someone dealing with the effects of conflict and traumatic events needs an environment that provides understanding, support and a sense of purpose – that’s what we are here for and the feedback we have had has been very positive.” Dr Kelly, who himself served in Bosnia, Timor, Iraq and Somalia, congratulated Mr Simmonds on the initiative and said he would use his influence to spread the word about Alternate RV. “It can be extremely difficult to transition from a combat zone to civilian life,” Dr Kelly said. See your ad here “The Alternate RV approach is so interesting because it provides a naturally beautiful setting to take some time out, while giving veterans a productive outlet so they can put their ingrained work ethic to good use. “I am very excited about its potential, and extremely proud that this good work to help our veterans is happening right here outside Braidwood.” braidwoodtimes.au/story/1611213/adf-veterans-farm-retreat/?cs=741
Posted on: Thu, 04 Jul 2013 09:00:05 +0000
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