Mates4Mates in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia | Community organisation

Mates4Mates

Locality: Brisbane, Queensland, Australia

Phone: +61 1300 462 837

Address: 27 Douglas St Milton 4064 Brisbane, QLD, Australia

Website: http://www.mates4mates.org/

Likes: 25127

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• Non-profit organisation
• Charitable organisation
• Community organisation
• Non-governmental organisation (NGO)

27.01.2022 Next week, we're launching weekly Group Physical Therapy (PT) and Hydrotherapy classes for Mates and their families in the Northern Territory! Physical rehabilitation plays an important role in improving our physical health and mental wellbeing, and we are so pleased to expand these services to the NT. If you or a veteran you know is living in the NT and looking to improve their physical health, you can learn more here: https://mates4mates.org/events/group-pt-northern-territory

25.01.2022 Yesterday we welcomed the Tasmanian Minister For Veterans' Affairs Guy Barnett to our Family Recovery Centre in Hobart. It was a great opportunity to show the Minister our facilities and to discuss the one-day wellness programs we will be running around the state, thanks to the grant we recently received from the Tasmanian Government https://bit.ly/2ZhNzVC

24.01.2022 Kayaking on a beautiful sunny day - what more could you ask for? This group of Cairns Mates spent the morning doing just that, down the Babinda Creek. With clear water and wonderful company, it was a day enjoyed by all. Kayaking can be such a wonderful way to get out into nature, which can have a very positive impact on our mental health and physical wellbeing.

23.01.2022 How fun does this look? This footage was taken during our recent weekend activity on the Gold Coast. Our team led a group of veterans on a full-day stand-up paddle boarding expedition where they explored Hinze Dam. It was quite the challenge for those involved, paddling a total of 14km. What an awesome effort!

22.01.2022 We’re here to help veterans find mateship and support through our social connection activities. We’ve teamed up Open Arms - Veterans & Families Counselling, RSL Queensland, Defence Community Organisation, Australian Kookaburra Kids Foundation, Defence Health and Defence Families of Australia (DFA) for Veterans' Health Week (24 Oct 1 Nov 2020) to offer veterans in Queensland the chance to connect with like-minded people and feel a sense of community. To find out more about what’s happening during the week, head to https://bit.ly/348ADTM

22.01.2022 One of our Mates captured this incredible footage during our recent cycling trip over on Straddie What a great day!

22.01.2022 Today mark's two very important days - R U OK?Day and World Suicide Prevention Day. This year we have seen the demand for our psychology appointments increase by 27%. Sadly, not everyone will reach out for support when they need it. Today and every day, we are encouraging everyone to talk openly about mental health and suicide, and to check in with their family and mates regularly. If you or a veteran you know needs support, please encourage them to reach out to Mates4Mates, speak with a trusted GP, Open Arms, or Lifeline. Read more https://bit.ly/3bJNUFW #WSPD2020 #RUOKDay #theresmoretosay #RUOK

22.01.2022 Following the announcement of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, consultation to inform the Terms of Reference is underway. There are a number of ways veterans, family members and service personnel can send their submissions for the Terms of Reference. You can submit directly to DVA here: https://www.dva.gov.au/public-consultation-inform-terms-ref ... Or you can send your feedback directly to the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Minister for Defence Personnel, the Hon Darren Chester MP, via the website here: https://www.ag.gov.au//defence-and-veteran-suicide-royal-c All feedback needs to be submitted by 21 May 2021.

22.01.2022 This story goes to show that age is no barrier to achieving your goals! Tony, one of our Mates is 72 years old and just last week completed a half-marathon row (21.5km) at our Family Recovery Centre in Townsville. One of the greatest things to see during the day was other Mates and staff members rowing alongside him to show their support.

21.01.2022 Japanese glass floats were once used by fishermen in many parts of the world, to keep their fishing nets afloat. On Wednesday, veterans in Tasmania came together for an art class to try their hand at making their very own. We loved seeing everyone come together to learn something new. Big thank you to one of our members, Ange for running us through all the skills needed to make these.

21.01.2022 Today is Vietnam Veterans Day, a day to honour and commemorate all those who served in Vietnam. One of our Mates, Jim recently wrote about his time serving in Vietnam and the importance of commemorating the day. Read Jim’s story https://bit.ly/344zZbo

20.01.2022 It was a privilege to attend the unveiling of Australia’s first Cor Infinitus memorial at Townsville’s ANZAC Park. We'd like to thank our Ambassador, Kevin Humphreys for making this come to life.

20.01.2022 Great news out this week! DVA and Medicare telehealth services have been extended until March 2021, meaning that we can continue to offer telehealth appointments to veterans and families in need. We know that this year has been challenging for many people, but having access to support can make all the difference. https://bit.ly/2HoiYja

19.01.2022 At Mates4Mates, we understand how challenging it can be to overcome injuries and trauma, which is why we're here to ensure no one has to go through their recovery alone. Seeing a Mates4Mates psychologist or exercise physiologist is as simple as following these four steps. We offer our services face-to-face and via telehealth, at no out-of-pocket expense to veterans and their families. For more information head to our website http://bit.ly/Mates4Mates-Services

19.01.2022 Last weekend over 25 veterans join our team as they completed a 60km cycle around Straddie. It was a phenomenal day and we couldn’t be prouder of our Mates for completing the ride Click through to see some of the great shots taken throughout the day.

18.01.2022 It's been a month since the launch of our Footsteps for Recovery fundraiser, and we're loving seeing your socks in action! This photo is from the Azenko team, who have stepped up to show their support for veterans. If you've purchased a pair of socks, please send through photos or share in the comments below - we'd love to see them!

18.01.2022 At Mates4Mates, we aren't just here to support veterans or current serving ADF members. We're here for the entire family. We recently hosted a range of events at Ipswich and we loved seeing veterans and their families coming together for a bit of fun and friendly competition at laser tag and the iPlay Arcade.

17.01.2022 Sleep problems are a major issue for veterans with PTSD. That's why GMRF is working to change this through their veteran sleep therapy trial. The trial is the first of it's kind in Brisbane and is kicking off in October. We are pleased to be apart of this trial, offering participants the option to take part after hours at our Family Recovery Centre in Milton. Read some of the testimonials from previous participants below and head to https://bit.ly/2Zzf8Kd for more information.

17.01.2022 We'd like to make a special mention to all of the mothers in the Defence community. Thank you for everything you do

16.01.2022 How good is catching up with friends and like-minded people for a coffee and a chat? We enjoy them so much that we are now offering coffee catchups online! If you are in a situation where you are unable to attend a catchup face-to-face, pull up a comfy seat in our Zoom session with Steve and connect with Mates from all over Australia. Our online coffee catch-ups will be hosted on Tuesdays at 10:30 am AEST. Register your attendance here: https://mates4mates.org/even/weekly-online-coffee-catch-ups

16.01.2022 All of our Family Recovery Centres will be closed today, 27 November 2020, for staff training. We're pleased to have the opportunity to get together to plan and upskill so that we can better help veterans and their families. If you need support during this time, please reach out to Open Arms on 1800 011 046 for 24-hour support. Our centers will reopen again on Monday 30 November, and we look forward to seeing you again soon!

15.01.2022 With the new year, comes a new opportunity to move forward with your life outside of the ADF. At Mates4Mates, we provide a safe, supportive environment for you to seek help for physical injuries and mental health issues - with no judgement or expectations. Our services are available to current or ex-serving members of the Army, Airforce or Navy, as well as immediate family members. To join Mates4Mates, simply submit an application form at http://bit.ly/join-mates4mates

15.01.2022 Brisbane Family Recovery Centre update. Our Brisbane Family Recovery Centre will be required to close on Monday 11 January following the recent Queensland Government greater Brisbane 3-day lockdown. Services are still available online and via telehealth during normal business hours from 8.30am to 4.30pm.... Our North Queensland and Tasmanian Family Recovery Centres are open as per current advice. If you require out of hours assistance, please contact Open Arms support services on 1800 011 046 or if it is an emergency please call 000.

14.01.2022 Last weekend our Mates completed the Warrie Circuit in Springbrook National Park, a 19km trail that weaves between rain forest and waterfalls. It was great to see veterans coming together to enjoy some time outdoors while testing their fitness.

14.01.2022 We'd like to wish all the Dads out there a very happy Father's Day, especially all of the Defence Dads. Thank you for everything that you do for your family, mates and country. We hope you have an awesome day!

13.01.2022 What do your tattoos mean to you? We know that many Australians and veterans have tattoos and that they play an important role in expressing one's self and honouring special memories. The Australian War Memorial has recently opened a new exhibition, Ink in the Lines. This photographic exhibition showcases intimate and powerful images and stories of veteran tattoos. Find out more https://bit.ly/2SdnIum

12.01.2022 As part of our 2022 Skills for Recovery Programs, we have launched our new Four-Day Wellness Programs. Following the success of last year's Three-Day Wellness Programs and after listening to the feedback from our Mates, we are really looking forward to offering more veterans the opportunity to take part in programs like these. Our Four-Day Wellness Programs have been designed specifically for veterans, to help them better manage post-service issues they may be facing, in a no...n-judgemental and inclusive environment. Having already filled our first program very quickly, we are really looking forward to further supporting the veteran community. Watch this space!

12.01.2022 We would like to extend a big thank you to Transurban, for providing us with their Community Fund grant to purchase some much-needed video equipment. Although COVID19 restrictions are starting to ease in some parts of Australia, for vulnerable people who are at a higher risk of serious illness if they contract the virus, it will be quite some time until they can go about their normal activities safely and without concern. With this grant, we have been able to provide a series of virtual social connection activities for veterans and their families. These activities include cooking classes, trauma-informed yoga, and creative arts, plus mindfulness and self-help strategy videos delivered by our psychologists.

11.01.2022 We are proud to be one of the recipients of a Tasmanian Government Supporting our Veterans grant. With the generous $10,000 grant, we will be providing four one-day wellness programs for local veterans with service-related injuries in the region. Each program will include a physical activity, like a hike, and therapeutic group sessions covering key topics from pain management to mood management. You can read more about it here https://bit.ly/3gIBmiP

11.01.2022 Yesterday, Stand Tall For PTS launched their Bolt 4 Mental Trauma event. Lead by Vietnam Veteran Tony Dell, this event is focused on raising awareness and change for those experiencing mental trauma. Find out more about how you can get involved https://bit.ly/2Lg7wIp

10.01.2022 With the weather warming up, it's the perfect time to think about all the ways to keep yourself cool while exercising this summer Our recent blog article written by our Exercise Physiology team outlines the principles that your body is using to thermoregulate while you exercise, plus a few extra tips on staying cool while you work out https://bit.ly/2UOU7IH

10.01.2022 Through the tremendous generosity and hard work of our donors and community fundraisers, this April we raised over $59,000. With this money raised, many veterans and their families will get the meaningful support they need to help them through some of their hardest times. Your support means the world to them, and to us too. We thank you again for standing with veterans and their families.

09.01.2022 We know that it has been a difficult and different year for many. We also know that it can be really challenging to re-engage with social activities after having long periods of isolation or a lack of social connection. That's why we're working hard to bring our Mates back together by offering new ways for them to connect. From rock climbing and woodworking to themed PT sessions and getting outdoors it's been great to see veterans getting out and about and enjoying time with their mates

09.01.2022 How good is this? A few artistic veterans put their skills to the test and painted a local traffic signal box in Milton. Titled Our Backyard, this bright and playful artwork calls on the beauty of the native Brisbane fauna and reminds us to take care of our land and its creatures. If you are in the area, be sure to check it out!

09.01.2022 The number of veterans and family members who are accessing our online services continues to grow, and this is something we are beyond excited about. This growth means a need for more varied social connection activities, to allow new and different ways to connect with like-minded veterans online. This month, our Online Services team are starting online trivia! Trivia is a great way to not only test your knowledge but engage in a little friendly competition and take your mind off the everyday. Our online services are available to all Mates and their family members across Australia. If you would like to learn more or even participate in this activity, please don't hesitate to get in contact with this team via email: [email protected]

09.01.2022 There are only a few hours left to grab your Play For Purpose tickets and support Mates4Mates. There are hundreds of fantastic prizes up for grabs, including the main prize. Tickets are $10 and a minimum of $5 from each ticket purchased goes directly to Mates4Mates. Ticket sales close at 8pm AEST tonight https://bit.ly/2phQ3R0

09.01.2022 Wanting to sharpen your skills in the kitchen? Join us and other veterans across Australia for this five-week online cooking class, where you’ll learn how to cook delicious and nutritious meals using the Jamie Oliver recipes. This free program kicks off on the 22 February and is available to all veterans and their families registered with Mates4Mates. Sign up today http://bit.ly/Jamies-Ministry-of-Food-Online

08.01.2022 We love this story of our community fundraiser, Ash, and the great support @TheTactiCOOLDad has been receiving You can show your support for the TactiCOOL Dad and Mates4Mates by either purchasing one of their bags or making a donation to their fundraising page https://bit.ly/3kH2GR2

08.01.2022 Early bird tickets close tomorrow! Purchase your Play For Purpose ticket by 23 Aug and you'll go into the drawn to win a bonus $1000 gift voucher for you and $1000 donation to Mates4Mates. Don't miss out. Get your ticket at https://bit.ly/2phQ3R0

08.01.2022 This week is Women’s Health Week and we’re taking the time out to celebrate the women around us and encourage them to prioritise their health! While our focus at Mates4Mates is on supporting those from the Defence community, this is an important week for all women across Australia. Every day this week Jean Hailes for Women's Health is focusing on important topics that centre around improving women’s health and making positive changes. Head over to their website and sign up for informative videos, quizzes, articles, and more https://bit.ly/3i6p6dv #WomensHealthWeek

06.01.2022 No matter what life throws at you, one way to manage the ups and downs is through your breathing. It is important to take a break during these times and focus on your breathing, inhaling slowly and deeply through your nose and exhaling slowly through your mouth. Here at Mates4Mates, we regularly encourage those accessing our services to practice mindfulness and breathing techniques to help manage their mental wellbeing. Give it a try and let us know how you go in the comments below.

06.01.2022 Started from the bottom (of Australia), now we’re here! We might only be halfway through the month, but we’ve well and truly smashed our original goal of walking the equivalent of Hobart to Darwin. To date we’ve walked over 11 million steps, placing us in Newman, Western Australia. We’ve set ourselves a new goal to head back down to Hobart, stopping in Perth and Adelaide along the way.... To all of the veterans and their families taking part, well done. See you back in Hobart soon!

05.01.2022 We have a lot of craft-inspired activities happening this month! Whether you are looking to express your creative side or want to enjoy some quality time with a group of like-minded individuals, there are plenty of activities happening across our centres. Browse our events here: https://mates4mates.org/events If you haven’t yet attended a Mates4Mates program, it’s a great time to get involved. Joining is simple and provides you with access to many services from social activities to physical rehabilitation programs and psychology appointments. Click on any event and follow the steps to join.

04.01.2022 Today is International Men's Day, which aims to shine a light on the health issues men face. This year's theme is ‘Better health for men and boys.’ One of our Psychologists recently wrote an article, sharing tips for men to ensure that they are thinking of their health. Head over to our website to read more.

04.01.2022 Behind the scenes of a new Mates4Mates video coming soon. Can't wait to share the final product with you all!

04.01.2022 Last weekend our Mates tried their hand at resin art. It great to see everyone come together to have some fun and learn some new skills. Click through to see their masterpieces

03.01.2022 Shout to one of our latest Fundraising Force members, The Tacticool Dad. The Tacticool Dad is a veteran-owned business setting out to provide a more practical range of baby products and accessories. They've kindly chosen to support Mates4Mates by donating $5 for every Full Field Kit sold. Be sure to head to their website to see their range https://thetacticooldad.com.au/ If you have an awesome fundraising idea and would like to join our Fundraising Force, we'd love to hear from you https://bit.ly/3bqs6Pd

03.01.2022 More than 100 people came together in Townsville last weekend, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the 2nd Cavalry Regiment (2 CAV). The dinner was an opportunity for members of the regiment to reunite, share memories and a laugh and give back to charity. Members raised an exceptional $17,000 for Mates4Mates on the night through an auction, supporting veterans still in need of support. A special thank you to Andrew Stocks who coordinated the reunion and put Mates4Mates forward as the charity of choice. Community support makes all the difference to our work, and we can't do it without you.

02.01.2022 Latest Brisbane Family Recovery Centre update! We're pleased to let everyone know that our Centre will be open again tomorrow, with Queensland Health guidelines in place around social distancing and mask use. To keep up to date on current restrictions, visit the Queensland Health website here: https://bit.ly/3bsIUY8

02.01.2022 Look at these kokedama creations! Last week, veterans and their families came together to give their green thumbs a workout at our kokedama workshop We loved seeing not only the end products but everyone enjoying themselves.

27.12.2021 How often do you find yourself being inactive throughout the day? Whether it's sitting or lying down, this consistent behaviour conducted over long periods of time has been found to increase the likelihood of pain and other health problems. In his latest article, Exercise Physiologist Jono explores the negative impacts sedentary (or inactive) behaviour can have on the body, as well as a few simple ways we can increase movement in our everyday lives. Take a moment to read it below.

14.12.2021 Earlier this month, a number of our SEQ Mates experienced Brisbane from a new angle - riding bikes down the Brisbane River! What a spectacular morning. Suitable for all fitness levels, this activity was a great way to get outdoors and get those legs pumping

24.11.2021 Recently a group of Ipswich Mates and family members had a wonderful time visiting a Llama Farm! This day was loved by all who attended. The Mates took the opportunity to connect with other veteran families in the area while they got up close to meet, pat and feed all of the animals that call The Llama Farm home.

21.11.2021 What a year! From the entire team at Mates4Mates, we wanted to say a huge thank you for following along and supporting veterans and their families impacted by service. We look forward to sharing more wonderful moments with you in 2022.

10.11.2021 The final edition of the Mates4Mates magazine for 2021 is out now! In this edition, we focus on the One-Day Wellness Programs we held across the country which has exposed veterans to new experiences while learning mindfulness to manage their wellbeing, the Lest We Forget poppy project in Hervey Bay which is supporting those impacted by service, the highlights of 2021 from all over Australia, plus important tips on how to reduce stress this holiday season. Make sure you grab yourself a copy next time you visit the centre or have a read online now: https://issuu.com///final_december_mates_magazine_screen_r

07.11.2021 Earlier this year, Murph Manthey, with the help of Rachel Jarvis, Ian Rowe and the Tewantin Noosa RSL, raised an outstanding $11,922 for Mates4Mates. Through various fundraisers such as a car wash, a sausage sizzle, a Drag Queen bingo night, and a trivia night, Murph felt there was no worthier cause than supporting veterans and their families through the services that Mates4Mates provides. From all of us at Mates4Mates, we want to say a huge thank you to Murph and those invol...ved for their generous donation. This will significantly help Mates4Mates continue to actively change the lives of veterans and their families impacted by service. Learn more about Murph's story here: https://mates4mates.org//conquering-mountains-to-support-v

31.10.2021 From all of us at Mates4Mates, we would like to wish you and your family a safe and happy holiday season. We already have a wide variety of activities and events planned for 2022 and we look forward to seeing you all in the new year. A reminder that our Centres will be closed from midday, Friday, 24 December 2021 and will reopen on Tuesday, 4 January 2022.... We understand that this time of year can be tough for some. If you are in crisis and need immediate support, please call Open Arms: 1800 011 046 or Lifeline: 13 11 14 who offer 24-hour support. If you, or someone you know, is in danger, call 000 immediately or attend your nearest hospital.

27.10.2021 This year our SEQ Family Recovery Centre was chosen to receive the Lord Mayor's Charitable Trust, which included 100 toys and $2,000 to put towards our Mates and Families Christmas party on 18 December. We are so very thankful for this support. It went a long way towards helping us share extra Christmas cheer and joy with veterans and their families in need.

16.10.2021 Last month, F45s across the Townsville and the Sydney regions hosted 'Heros Hollywood' sessions to get fit and fundraise for a charity of their choice. Unknowingly, the two regions ran this event at the same time, both choosing to fundraise for Mates4Mates! How cool is that? We are so grateful to each of the F45s and their members that participated in this event. Every bit counts towards supporting veterans and their families impacted by service. ... Shoutout to F45 Training Thuringowa F45 Training Townsville Central F45 Training Pyrmont F45 Training Rhodes F45 Training Concord F45 Training Sydney Olympic Park

07.10.2021 Thanks to the funds raised during our 2020 National Appeal Day, we were able to run twelve One-Day Wellness Programs across the country. Our One-Day Wellness Programs are designed to allow veterans to challenge themselves, connect with others and learn practical mindfulness techniques to manage their wellbeing. "It’s about stepping away and spending some time on yourself and your own wellbeing. Learning to manage stress and anxiety, and improving our mood and motivation levels, is important. These One-Day Wellness Programs are a supportive and interesting way to do that. You can learn more about our One-Day Wellness programs in our latest article: https://mates4mates.org//adventure-wellness-and-mates-await