Buddy Up Australia

After leaving the Defence Force and running a few businesses of my own, what I was doing still didn't feel like home for me. I was after the Mateship and Camaraderie that we get in the Forces and Emergency Services that I was missing. Once I found Buddy Up Australia, I resonated with their values and the main aim is to just get people out, moving, socialising, helping in the community and meeting like minded people in a very caring and safe environment. If you are looking to fill a void since serving our country then I highly recommend connecting with Buddy Up Australia and finding your nearest chapter.

I first started to come to Buddy Up events in 2021. WOW! What an amazing organisation. They've made a huge difference to my mental health recovery as I've reconnected with likeminded people in a healthy and supportive way. They run so many different activities, physical, wellness, social and volunteering aimed at all sorts of different levels of physical and mental health capabilities. One of the absolutely best things is there's absolutely no recriminations should I bail on an event, I'm warmly welcomed on my return. So, whether you're just up for a coffee and a gentle stroll or you want to climb mountains and conquer the world, come along. It'll change your world!

I am a Navy Veteran and because of my Mental health struggles I don't really leave the house especially socially, however since joining buddy up and forming friendships within the group I have attended a number of there events. It is great to be surrounded with like minded people were there is no judgement or expectations. What's even better is it's not just me that benefits but also my children as they attend many of the events with me so as a single parent it is really inclusive. This is definitely having a positive effect on my mental health. Everyone is just so kind and welcoming. I am greatful to be apart of this group and would encourage anyone considering of joining to just do it you won't be disappointed. Thank you Buddy Up.

Such an important organisation, bringing those who have served together in a space of support and community.

When I left the Police Force after a decade of service, I was excited, nervous and very busy running my own business. However, there came a time where I started to feel a little lost; I was missing my former colleagues, struggling to find my true purpose in the civilian world, and trying to figure out where I belong.Buddy Up has provided me with a community of people who share a common background; these shared / similar experiences have helped me re-connect with a previous chapter of my life that was incredibly rewarding, as well as challenging.Reconnecting with current / ex-service personnel through physical / wellness events is perfect for me because, participating in physical fitness activities is what I focus on to look after my own mental health and wellness in general.Thank you Buddy Up! You guys rock :)

Buddy Up has helped me reconnect with like minded people post ADF life. The chapter I’m now a part of in Geelong has made me feel part of something I thought I’d never feel again.The chapter members are great and we enjoy all types of different activities all year round. I thoroughly recommend all current and post ADF and first responders to hook up with a local chapter or if you don’t have one to start up a chapter in your local area.It’s easy and you get plenty of help and support from the board and fellow chapters.

To find a place that is first and foremost about Health and Wellbeing and positive experiences is really refreshing, before my Brain bleed I was heavily involved in the Group Fitness Industry and Lifestyle Coaching as a way to help people become a better version of themselves and also the community around them.Discovering that BuddyUp not only wants to create good experiences at all levels, but also about Enriching the lives of Veterans, First Responders plus Family and Friends, really spoke to my values and my heart for helping others do what they can't do on their own. Plus you know coffee :-)I have already experienced the Mateship and understanding even with some of my own challenges and I'm excited to see what will be achieved in the future with some new events being added to the BuddyUp calender.I recommend Veterans and First response people to check out the free membership and see what adventure might be available for you to try :-D