Meet a Mate.

Rebecca joined Mates4Mates over five years ago, often visiting the Brisbane Family Recovery Centre and participating in social connection activities across South East Queensland. What’s your favourite social connection activity?

“As a veteran, I’ve been away from my family for long periods of time, so school holiday programs that involve the family are fantastic. The aqua park social activities are the kids’ favourites. The more active, the better!

While I normally engage with Mates4Mates at a family level, as an individual, I’ve been happy to see Mates4Mates take the direction of offering activities that may be of more interest to female veterans. Mindful activities that require you to be creative are my favourite, such as the Christmas wreath making workshop or the bonsai workshop. While these really take me out of my comfort zone, I always feel safe and supported.” Why do you enjoy being a Mate?

“I enjoy being part of the Mates4Mates community because I get to engage with other veterans who might have been through similar experiences to me. As a wife and partner of a veteran, it’s comforting to be around other people who understand the veteran lifestyle and how service can impact you and your family.

Mates4Mates is a positive space where there’s so much for everyone; for me as a veteran, as a wife, for my children, it’s a safe space to learn positive strategies for dealing with life’s challenges and where we can re-engage as a family again.

Thank you to the whole team at Mates4Mates who have been so inclusive of myself and my family. You’ve made us feel welcomed and at home, helping us all along our journey.”