Rick’s new Young Diggers trek

GLASSHOUSE veteran, Rick Canhan, is gearing up again to venture into the remote outback yet again, on another fundraising event in aid of ‘Young Diggers’. Young Diggers Ltd is a registered charity / not-for-profit organisation.

Funds raised so far are over $2,200. This year, the trek follows the Madigan line, north of the Simpson Desert. It was chosen as a tribute to Australian Explorer, Dr Cecil Thomas Madigan who traversed the 700 plus kilometre track in 1939 with nine men and 19 camels. “Whilst we have no camels, we do currently stand at 4/5 vehicles, 8/10 persons,” Rick said. “We meet in Mt Dare for an April 6 departure, with a minimum 10 days on the Madigan line alone.

“Now I’ve crunched some numbers, and it seems my SEQ team will need to travel over 3,000 km (through some of the remotest country) just to get to the start point, too easy.

“Anyone like to hazard a guess on a anticipated fuel cost at probably 25lt for 100km, at anywhere from $2.50 to $3.50 (or more) per litre?”

Young Diggers was set up in 2013 primarily to provide support to veterans, first responders and their families navigating with PTS, anxiety and depressive disorders after traumatic events through the workplace.

The program is called the Dog Squad where, with a professional dog trainer, the team embark on a journey of discovery through, firstly, after obtaining a suitable dog, forming a bond through training and commitment with the aim of certifying the dog as an official Assistance Animal. Ultimately, to regain a new sense of purpose with a new sense of freedom, to which they so rightly deserve.

“We should always be thankful for their service, to all who served.”

Rick completed 22 years’ service in the Army as an Infantry Soldier, serving throughout Australia, Southeast Asia and East Timor, and is a also a member of the Glasshouse Country Men’s Shed. Rick was diagnosed with PTSD with severe depressive disorder in 2006, four and a half years following discharge, sharing that his family has been on a “not so nice” roller coaster of a journey.

“I’ve put my family through hell, have seen so many highs and lows and the family still wouldn’t let me go. And that was just yesterday,” he said.

“I must believe I’m in a better place now, to consider any alternative would be a backwards step. But, to feel not ok is okay too. Because it is hard to put on that face and say you’re okay, every day, when clearly at times you know you are not.”

Rick shared that he’s finding there are beautiful and good people out there and good times to be enjoyed and is extremely grateful he’s still here, expressing it could have been so different. “I need to keep myself busy in mind and body, I actively seek out community groups and get involved. My involvement with the Qld Military Jeep Club and the Glasshouse Country Men’s Shed has really brought me back to life and I am extremely grateful for that too.”

Rick sought out the Young Diggers group after a chance meeting with the director, Karen Gibbs, and her dog, Milo, at an Infantryman’s muster in 2022. He now volunteers as an authorised Young Diggers Fundraiser.

“If anyone is keen to join us or wish to donate funds, please contact me through my Facebook page for details,” he said. “It goes without saying that it would essential to have a great sense of humour. Interaction is on the cards and a great time can be had.”

Please donate at facebook.com/rickcanhan