Goorambat Veterans Retreat in Goorambat, Victoria, Australia | Charitable organisation

Goorambat Veterans Retreat

Locality: Goorambat, Victoria, Australia

Phone: +61 3 5764 1468

Address: 21 Trewin Rd 3725 Goorambat, VIC, Australia

Website: http://www.veteransretreat.com.au

Likes: 749

Add/Update information

Reviews

Tags

• Non-profit organisation
• Charitable organisation

24.01.2022 We had some ex-Navy Veterans drop in for a cuppa yesterday after paying their respects at the Goorambat Victory Park Memorial. It was great to meet up with Steve & Vanessa Santvoort, their K9 companion Body, Grant Sandvoort, Barry Wormald and Brian Gordon. They have been camping out with friends at the Broken Creek Bush Camp, Benalla VIC

24.01.2022 Around 5 million Australians will receive a one off Economic Support Payment of $750 from mid-July. To be eligible, veterans, their dependants or families must... have been residing in Australia and receiving at least one of the following payments or cards on 10 July 2020: Service Pension Partner Service Pension Income Support Supplement or Veteran Payment Disability Pension Special Rate Disability pension Permanent Impairment compensation War Widow(er)s Pension or Wholly Dependent Partner payment Gold Cards, Commonwealth Seniors Health Cards and Pensioner Concession Cards Age Pension paid by DVA Eligible recipients must have also not received the Coronavirus Supplement. The payment will be made automatically from mid-July. Read more https://www.dva.gov.au//latest-n/economic-support-payments

23.01.2022 Our youngest Volunteer, Maddi, helps out building the Vege patch. How?...find some ground, give it some love, keep the rabbits out, plant some Veges and then scare the crows off. Lookin good to me!

22.01.2022 Some more great news this week! We have been awarded a grant from the Department of Veterans Affairs to assist with the funding of our Advocacy Support Services, that is, the assistance and advice we provide to veterans in relation to their Compensation and Wellbeing matters.

22.01.2022 Well, it’s been a wait, but the stars have now aligned and a group of volunteers will be joining us this weekend to assemble the new cabin. Most are new to the Retreat and are connected through the ex-Army Apprentice network, we look forward to sharing some pics as we progress. A steady flow of recreational travellers continue to transit through on overnight stops, however, the ongoing renovation activity on our buildings has slowed considerably. Unfortunately, Phil has neede...d to take some time out to deal with some gremlins in his dodgy leg but he hopes to get back to work on the exterior of the buildings soon. Requests for use of our crisis accomodation continue as winter approaches and some of our Veteran mates face the prospect of spending cold nights without decent shelter. It’s one thing to couch surf or sleep in your car, but some personal space and a bed of their own really helps them take stock of their immediate crisis and give them the clarity to put necessary supports in place. We cannot stress enough, just how important it is to get our crisis accommodation project completed and providing warm beds to those Veterans in need. Let’s push on team.

22.01.2022 The old School sign got a bit of a make-over this week and its now back where it belongs, ready for another 100 years.

21.01.2022 Our work on the old 1930 schoolhouse continues to progress and things are looking markedly different to pre-lockdown. The grounds are so green. Thought wed share a few before and after pics of the changes youll find when you next visit.

21.01.2022 As the financial year draws to an end we are reminding all of our supporters that all of your donations from $2 can be claimed as Tax Deduction when completing your tax returns next month. Every dollar raised goes towards improving and delivering services for our Veterans and their families, there are no fat cat salaries being funded here. There are a few projects that wed like to complete this year and we are listing these individually through the GiveNow fundraising platform. It would be appreciated if you could share them on to other friends, businesses and organisations that might consider making a Tax Deductible donation to this great cause.

20.01.2022 Volunteer Caretaker Opportunity We are seeking Expressions of Interest from a Veteran or Veteran couple to share a Caretakers role here at the Retreat in Goorambat. A private caravan site with town water and power will be supplied, along with bathroom facilities if needed. The communal spaces at the Retreat also contain a kitchen and lounge. WiFi internet access is provided. A companion dog is welcome providing they are controlled in accordance with Retreat policy. A commitme...nt of up to 2 hours per day would be necessary, however, flexibility is offered to enable you to take short absences as required. The duties are general in nature and may include: Receiving Visitors to Caravan & Camp sites; Taking phone enquiries; Light ground maintenance eg. moving wheelie bins, operating ride-on mower. You must be willing to undergo both a Police and Working with Children Check, however, this cost is borne by us. Ideally, we would expect an initial minimum commitment of 3 months with the opportunity for you to continue on if desired. Start date is negotiable and will be dependant on any COVID-19 Lockdown restrictions in place. If you think this position is for you, please tell us why and include the following detail in your Expression of Interest: Full name/s. Residential Address. Service History - Date of Enlistment & Discharge. Contact phone number. Contact email address. Email to: [email protected] Post to: Goorambat Veterans Retreat Inc, 21 Trewin Rd, Goorambat, Vic. 3725 Phone: If you would like to have a chat please call Phil on (03) 5764 1468.

19.01.2022 WIN News Feature 6 Aug 2020

19.01.2022 We would like to thank all of you that have contacted us in the last few days to offer support and assistance. We understand that It can be a real struggle for any Benevolent organisation to reach the hearts and minds of the community, small Not-For-Profits seem to pop up everyday and in these Austere times can often go unnoticed and fade away as quickly as they came. Well !! Based on recent communications, we are pleased to report that the Community DOES have the interests o...f our Veterans at heart. Its not always about the money, although its hard to pay the bills without it , what is particularly heartening is the number of Veterans, including other Ex Service Organisations, contacting us to offer us their time and words of encouragement. There are few occupations and organisations that can take credit for developing and nurturing the instinct of compassion and respect toward ones fellow man. This spirit of Camaraderie and selfless service is a trait the Community respects in our Veteran population and which is evident through your offers of support today.

17.01.2022 "Hedging" our bets with a few Pittosporum along the front fence.

17.01.2022 So why do we need a Veterans Retreat? Serving in the military is an experience that few can relate to. Its not that people dont want to, its just that Australia is not a Military State and our Defence Forces are a microcosm of our National workforce. Standards in the Australian Defence Forces (ADF) are high, in fact, more than 80% of applications to join the ADF are rejected, the tasks Veterans perform and circumstances of their employment, have no civilian equivalent. Th...ose who join the Services make a professional commitment quite unlike any other. They undertake to maintain the security, values and standards of the nation against external threat. They train for the application of extreme violence in a controlled and humane fashion, whilst accepting the risk of serious injury or death in achievement of the mission....In short, they undertake to train for and, if required, undertake duty beyond the bounds of normal human behaviour. Our Retreat at Goorambat acknowledges this and is committed to supporting our Veterans through the adversity that can stem from their service as much as joining them in celebrating the Service they have given. See more

17.01.2022 9 News Feature on Goorambat Veterans Retreat 31 July 2020

17.01.2022 Originally known as Armistice Day, Remembrance Day is observed on 11 November and marks the signing of the peace agreement between Germany and the Allies that ended the Great War of 1914-1918. The Second World War began just 21 years later. Almost a million Australians served during that conflict lasted close to six years. Armistice Day was then renamed Remembrance Day. The First World War Armistice came into effect at 11am. To commemorate the occasion, we stop at 11am for on...e minute of silence to remember those who served during the First World War and those who have died in conflicts since. With only 10 people allowed to gather outdoors, there is no plan to have a formal gathering at the Goorambat Victory Park this Remembrance Day. However, we encourage you to pause in your homes, schools or workplaces and remember. A few local images for your reflection. Lest We Forget

16.01.2022 Today we acknowledge the 70th anniversary of the start of the Korean War and recognise the service and sacrifice of more than 17,000 Australians who fought as part of the United Nations (UN) multinational force defending South Korea from a North Korean invasion. In 2002, the students at Goorambat Primary School completed a project on the Korean War and in recognition of the 50th Anniversary commissioned and dedicated a memorial to our Veterans within the school grounds. After the Schools closure in 2010, the Memorial sat alone in the vacant grounds for 9 years until a group of local historians relocated it to the Goorambat Victory Park. Little did they know that only months later a Veterans Retreat would occupy the old school. To those Korean Veterans, We Thank You For Your Service, LEST WE FORGET.

16.01.2022 A little while back, we mentioned a motivated young lad, 15 yo Jack Mcqualter-whyte, who was donning a pack and his boots and walking from the Dawn Service at Mulwala in NSW to Bundelong in Victoria to raise funds in support of our Veteran community. Jack had committed the proceeds of his initiative to assist Soldier On Australia, The Path of the Horse and our very own Goorambat Veterans Retreat. Well! Jack did indeed complete his 17km trek on Anzac Day, and he successfully raised a whopping $10,000 to assist with Veteran Mental Health and Homelessness matters. What a legend! Jack paid us a visit yesterday to present us with a donation of $3,500 to assist us with our Veterans' Crisis Accommodation program. A huge shout goes out to Jack today.

16.01.2022 The COVID-19 restrictions meant our gates were closed to Veterans back in March. The time in isolation has meant we could put some hours into starting our Veterans gardens of reflection.

15.01.2022 We encourage all Veterans to bring their Service and Companion Dogs when visiting the Retreat.

15.01.2022 What a GREAT Weekend we’ve had, simply amazing group therapy with a team of like-minded Veterans’ and above all, VOLUNTEERS. ALL driven by the desire to support other members of our Veteran community in need. A real melting pot of Army trades this weekend...a couple of grunts, a blacksmith, a vehicle mechanic, a gunner, a truckie and a couple of civvy mates, ranging from 24 to 68 years of age...what a crew! Add to the mix some great tucker laid on by our resident chef, Jo, a ...few sherbets and yarns around the fire and you have an A-List event. From left to right we have Stuart Steele, Thorben Croft, Geoff Watkins, Rob Grant, Andrew Ick, Glen Nash and Alwyn Brunton (Bruno). Our first crisis accommodation cabin funded by The Coo-Wee RIDE fundraiser is nearing completion & with the remaining fit-out continuing over the next few weeks, we’re on track to have it providing much needed shelter over the winter months. Perhaps you might like to join us next time?

14.01.2022 Its been a busy and exciting week with parts of our new Veterans Memorial Garden taking shape. The rose walk is looking sharp with sleepers now bordering 18 standard white Iceberg roses. An assortment of other mature trees are now in place in the front garden, including; Silver Birches, Crepe Myrtle, Magnolias, Coral Bark Maple, a Forest Pansy and six Manchurian Ornamental Pears that will frame our yet to be delivered Yard Arm flag pole. So looking forward to spring dressing these amazing specimens and, yes, we will post some pics for the die-hard gardeners to appreciate further. Planted in 1908, the two 112-year-old Elm trees that stand watch over the Retreat were also given some long-overdue attention by our supporters at North East Tree Services Pty Ltd.

14.01.2022 Unfortunately, given the COVID-19 lockdown requirements, we cannot have any visitors to the Retreat here in Goorambat. We can, however, continue to support Veterans needing Advocacy and Well-Being support. So if you are a serving or ex-serving Veteran needing some advice regarding a DVA Compensation matter, or perhaps you just need some support to help you through a rough patch. Either way, we have a number of experienced Advocates standing by to assist.

14.01.2022 GREAT NEWS! The ATO has advised that we have been endorsed as a Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) which is a great step forward for our Charity. This has some great advantages for us and our Donors and Sponsors, which include: All monetary gifts of $2 or more are fully tax deductible; and any Property or Goods that are purchased by a Donor within the last 12 months and gifted to us are also fully tax deductible. Well be launching our Fundraising program in the next few weeks, of which 100% goes toward supporting our Veterans and their families.

13.01.2022 Following an extensive career in the ADF it is often a battle to work out what you’ll do with the next chapter of your life, too young to retire and pretty much moulded to deliver outcomes for the Service. Breaking that mould can be a gruelling and often draining process as you feel your way around. One of our strategies is to use our our personal networks and peer to peer mentoring to get us through. A place like the Veterans Retreat can help build on those important network...s by providing a meeting place in an very relaxed & casual environment. Nothing better than getting those boots off and walking on a bit of green grass in your bare feet I reckon. Sitting by a camp fire & watching a starlit night sky unimpacted by city lights is great for you & the family. Get some ‘ME’ time happening and pay us a visit, the outcomes might surprise you. Some great news is that a local woman, Sharon, who after nearly 3 decades serving our Country, has found a new passion and purpose and is now a successful Artist. I’d encourage you to visit her Page @Woodleigh Artistry and see what she has to offer. Sharon has also found that volunteering some of her time to her local RSL gives her the opportunity to stay engaged with others in the ADF family and work with Veterans that have shared similar experiences as herself. Thank you for your service Sharon.

12.01.2022 Back in July last year we started fundraising to purchase the materials for one of our boundary fence projects. This particular 150m of fence was a priority in order to secure campsites and facilities while keeping Veterans children & companion dogs safe from wandering. Thanks to the generosity of donors and some hard graft by a few volunteers, the first sod was turned in January this year and today we saw the last gate locked. Another great achievement by Veterans, their families and their supporters. If you have a bit of time on your hands and are prepared to share some with like minded Veterans, we have plenty of projects for you to sink your teeth in to. Just send us a message & we’ll be in touch.

11.01.2022 Good Morning All, Well, we have been advised by Council that the permits required for the Diggers Wife Cafe to start trading will take a couple more weeks. I...t's not Councils fault mind you, certain requirements need to be met when opening a new business in a location such as the Public Hall, and the planning process all takes time. HOWEVER, if you have been itching to see the makeover the old supper room has received, you won't be disappointed. Even though our Cafe can't serve paying customers just yet, we can continue to hold the usual array of functions and events at the Hall, only now, we have new decor and a full-on Espresso machine to get us excited. So, we've decided to help Milli, Clem, Banjo & Sam host a Tea Party to help raise funds for the continuation of the Goorambat Public Hall beautification project. The new Public Toilet project cost a little more than expected and we'd like to help the Committee raise a few more dollars to put toward the necessary safety fencing alongside the building. The invitation is pretty much self explanatory; your donation will get you some of the finest Cakes and Espresso Coffe in the land, anyway you like it... cappuccino, a latte, even a piccolo if you must. Have no fear; the Tea connoisseurs will be catered for as well as those on a juice only diet. Best of all, you'll be the first to hang out with The Diggers Wife. A COVID Safe Seating plan will be necessary, but this will still allow us to cater for up to 60 persons come the 23rd of November. We ask that you RSVP no later than 6pm on Fri 20th November and EFT payment details will be provided by return email. If you don't do email, just PM us on Facebook if you prefer. Yes, we know, it's on a Monday morning, but we did say we'd open the doors on the 23rd. Take a late start at work, even better, take a day off. Bring your friends, support groups, mothers group, book club and anyone else you can get along for this great cause. See more

10.01.2022 Thanks to everyone that has donated to our fence project, its now well on its way thanks to your generosity. Dont forget to submit your receipts with your tax return next month as all donations made before 12pm next Tuesday 30th June are an approved deduction. https://www.givenow.com.au/goorambatveteransfence

10.01.2022 We've got some big thank you's to go out this week. It's been a busy one, and we couldn't do it without you. Firstly, Dave Johnson, a Goorambat neighbour and Veteran, spent his Saturday cutting and delivering us a load of firewood for the firepits. Next up is Phil Edwards, an Ocean Grove local and Veteran, who paid us a visit to discuss some potential fundraising opportunities and to assist by doing the leg-work on the necessary proposals. Lastly, local lad Bruce Saunders and his mate Ewan who spent many hours on their Sunday afternoon fitting new doors to the Goorambat Public Hall. All selfless acts of kindness and real gentlemen at that.

10.01.2022 Last week, we had to get an electrical issue sorted on the LandCruiser at very short notice and Chris at CJC Onsite Auto Electrics in Gardners Rd in Benalla dropped everything to help out. The most immaculate workshop we have seen at that. They don't seem to do Facebook so I will post their details Ph: 0499 302 713 or email: [email protected] Great to find a local business committed to customer service.

10.01.2022 Look what popped up just now, our thanks go out to Lexie Jeuniewic at 9 News Shepparton.

09.01.2022 Thank you to everyone that has confirmed their attendance at Millie's fundraiser Tea Party next Monday. We have forwarded the EFT payment details to all of you ...that requested them. We have also been asked if we can take payment by cash, and the answer is, YES. Some of you have already called in to make a payment, but we are happy to take it from you on Monday if this is more convenient. For those that have not already done so, we do need you to let us know that you are attending no later than midday this coming Saturday 21st November at the very latest, as Jo needs to know how many treats to prepare. We can't wait to show you the new Cafe and tuck into those yummy cakes. There are still seats available, so share the details with your friends and family, and we look forward to seeing you there. See more

09.01.2022 It is worth mentioning that DFRDB pensioners received an email today from CSC advising that their Group Certificates and CPI Advice were available online. You can simply follow the link in the email or go to https://www.csc.gov.au/Log/Pensioner-services-online/dfrdb/ and login to your account.

08.01.2022 We know that times are tough out there for many Australians at the moment and we thank those ADF Veterans that have their boots on the ground. A big thanks also to your families who wait patiently for you to return home.

08.01.2022 Anzac Day 2020. Great community spirit amid lockdown. A misty morning with plenty of locals at the end of their driveways, candles lit. Our recently donated flagpole flew its first flag, also donated by one of our Melbourne based Veterans.

07.01.2022 Some of our followers might already be familiar with the Northern Victoria Silo Art Trail, our small town of Goorambat features some amazing works by artist Jimmy DVate, the Barking Owl is particularly life like. A little further up the trail, however, is the township of Devenish where Veterans will find the art particularly stirring. There stands a First World War Nurse and a modern day Combat Medic, both alongside a Light Horseman, some amazing art by Cam Scale that really is a worthy commemoration.

07.01.2022 Reserve Forces Day today. You can take a pat on the back team, the eagerness and professionalism shown by those of you we see on a regular basis is a credit to our Profession of Arms. http://minister.dva.gov.au/media_releases/2019/jun/va064.htm

06.01.2022 Today is National PTSD Awareness Day. What is PTSD? It is important to understand that PTSD is a type of anxiety disorder that can occur after any extreme emotional trauma that involved the threat of injury or death. ... What are the symptoms of PTSD? Some symptoms may include: Flashbacks (reliving the trauma) Nightmares about the traumatic event Emotional numbing Avoiding thinking or talking about the traumatic event Avoiding activities you once enjoyed Difficulty maintaining close relationships Irritability or anger Overwhelming guilt or shame Substance abuse Trouble sleeping Suicidal thoughts or suicide attempts Being easily startled or frightened Although these are all emotional symptoms, PTSD can also manifest itself in physical form. For example, people with PTSD show higher instances of fibromyalgia, arthritis, ulcers, and high blood pressure. Everybody is different and coping skills can vary a lot, as do the therapies and medications used for treatment. What works for me may not work for you, so please dont self diagnose or self medicate, lets leave that up to the professionals. Discuss your concerns with your GP, remember, if youve served in the ADF all treatment for your mental health is funded by DVA. See more

06.01.2022 Many thanks to Matt from Just Digging It Excavations who helped us complete another stage of our Veterans’ Commemoration Garden. Matt is a very competent machinery operator who saved us tons of time on the shovel. The base of our water sculptures are now in place with minimal impact on the surrounding landscape. We are very grateful for the support this local Benalla business and highly recommend their work.

05.01.2022 After replacing the 110 rotting hardwood stumps, most having been in place since 1930, we now have level floors and windows that readily open. The old fireplace has seen daylight for the first time in more than 70 years and work inside is progressing, made a bit easier as the cooler weather rolls in.

05.01.2022 We had something land on our lawn this week. Can you guess what it is?

04.01.2022 During this COVID Lockdown, our Advocates are still able to assist Veterans with queries relating to any DVA Claims and Personal Wellbeing matters. This can be done using Video Chat if you would like to eyeball us, or over the phone if you prefer. We simply need to schedule in a time that is mutually convenient and we can make it happen for you. Our service has no borders and is not isolated to our region either. Much of what we do today with online forms and email allow...s us to provide assistance to a Veteran in any location providing they have phone coverage. Also, with your approval, we can access a DVA Portal that gives us a summary of your previous DVA claims activity. This service is totally confidential and in our opinion a far better alternative to posting questions about your personal health matters in Group forums on Facebook. You can contact us by using the "Send Message" link above or call us on (03) 5764 1468 and please leave a message if we are unable to take your call and we will get back to you as soon as we are able. See more

04.01.2022 Busy day today. 4 members of the Executive Committee were able to make it from Melbourne to attend this months Management meeting. We are very grateful for their assistance as all Members volunteer their time freely to assist our cause. Our thanks goes out to: Our Treasurer - Mr Anthony Woolley - Vietnam Veteran and Retired Bank Manager. Anthony has been a practicing Veterans Advocate for 17 years, previously with the Southern Peninsula Veterans Centre at Rosebud and later ...Frankston. Anthony is currently supporting Veterans through the Geelong Surf Coast Veteran Centre and the Goorambat Veterans Retreat. Committee Member - Ms Angela Northeast - Angela brings us a wealth of experience supporting Veterans well-being and welfare needs. Previously the Office Manager at the Southern Peninsula Veteran Centre at Rosebud, Angela is currently employed as the full-time Coordinator at the Peninsula Veterans Hub located in Frankston. This daily contact with Veterans and her personal experience of having a close family member serve with the ADF in Afghanistan, allows her to share a great insight into the well-being needs of todays Veteran community. Coincedently and very conveniently, we also had a visit today from Mr Matthew Crichton from Young Veterans Australia . A serving Veteran himself, we had discussions regarding future collaboration in support of our Veteran Community and more specifically, the ongoing tasks in developing facilities here at the Goorambat Retreat. The meeting ended on a very positive note and the Young Veterans Executive will now consider the matter further. It warms our hearts to see Veterans supporting Veterans.

02.01.2022 Great News Today !! We were successful in securing a $10,000 grant from the Federal Governments Saluting Their Service commemorative grants program. This funding will help us purchase a flagpole and complete our memorial Garden of Reflection project.

02.01.2022 The uncertainty around COVID has meant that many people are still reluctant, or unable, to travel at this time. Consequently, only a few Veterans' had committed to attending our event this weekend. We have decided to postpone it for a few weeks to give people the opportunity to shake off the COVID blues. We will post the new date as soon as we're able. For those of you that were all geared up & ready to go, you're still more than welcome to visit for a cuppa & a chat, or even camp the weekend if you're keen. And, as always, your K9 buddies are most welcome.

01.01.2022 Well, the 'sneak peak' soft opening of the Diggers Wife Cafe was a great success. Given it was a Monday in a working week, we had a good turnout for the Tea Party fundraiser. The 30 guests in attendance came from as far as Rennie in NSW, Yarrawonga, Tungamah and of course, our great crew of locals. They enjoyed a spread of treats which included fresh strawberries dipped in milk chocolate and an amazing selection of cakes & fresh scones baked by the Diggers Wife herself. Youn...g Maddi was doing a great job working the floor and tending to orders whilst her Mum, Jo, was whipping up a storm at the Espresso machine with Cappuccinos, Lattes and Long Blacks all-round. A local icon, Alan Saunders, gave a big thumbs up to his Strawberry milkshake. The event raised $450 for Goorambat Public Hall Beautification Project. In attendance was Sharron McKenzie, a Veteran and budding artist, Woodleigh Artistry, who took the opportunity to present the Goorambat Veterans' Retreat with a fabulous painting of a Digger & his Dog on deployment in the Middle East. Retreat Chairman, Phil Thomson, accepted the gift and thanked Sharon for her 28 years service with the Australian Army. Sharon's folks are Goorambat locals, Don & Dorothy McKenzie. It was great to see Local Benalla Councillor Gail O'Brien attending, and our thanks go out to all of the Goorambat community who supported the event. It shouldn't be too much longer before we receive the necessary permit from the Council, allowing our Cafe to start trading daily. https://www.facebook.com/813158761/videos/10158912084733762/got

01.01.2022 Camping Facilities Update

01.01.2022 A new addition....an Ensuite Bathroom Pod arrives on site.