Invictus Australia’s Holds A Post Invictus Games Camp To Support Veteran Wellness

Invictus Australia has led the development of a first of it's kind Post Invictus Games Decompression Camp, dedicated to checking back in with Team Australia competitors post the Warrior Games 2024 and Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025 based on research findings spearheaded by the Invictus Games Foundation.

Held over the last weekend at Tallebudgera Leisure Centre, the camp was created in direct response to previous competitor feedback highlighting the emotional and psychological “come down” that often follows major sporting events.

The ethos of the camp was based off the findings of the Beyond the Finish Line report, led by Dr. Celina Shirazipour and commissioned by the Invictus Games Foundation and Forces in Mind Trust. The research confirmed that while events like the Invictus Games can serve as a powerful catalyst for recovery, the greatest long-term benefits occur when participants are supported after the Games.

Across the three-day programme, participants engaged in a mix of sports, wellness activities and group discussions. These sessions were curated to help attendees maintain the momentum they had built through Australia's Adaptive Sport Programme journey and to provide practical strategies for staying active, connected and motivated, since a sustained commitment to sport and connection can significantly contribute to both the physical and mental wellbeing of veterans on their path to recovery.

The Invictus Games serve as powerful catalysts for recovery, many competitors have shared that the period after the Games can leave them feeling flat, unmotivated and uncertain. With medical discharge or transition from service also on the horizon for some, the loss of structure, identity and connection that comes with military life adds another layer of challenge.

The camp aligned with many of the recommendations from the report including:

• Continuity of Purpose: The camp focused on helping participants identify their ‘next step’ in sport and life, ensuring the Games are not a finish line but a launching pad into the next chapter of growth and connection.
• Opportunity to Decompress: By providing time and space to process and unpack the Invictus Games experience, participants were better equipped to move forward with purpose and clarity around their journey.
• Sustained Wellbeing: The camp promoted continued involvement in sport to help maintain the physical and mental health gains achieved through Invictus Games participation
• Leadership and Community: Many participants expressed a desire to give back, using their lived experience and journey of recovery to inspire others and champion the role of sport in the broader veteran community. The report showcases how this drives purpose and ongoing connection for competitors post the Games.

By turning research into action, this 'Beyond the Games' camp ensured that competitors weren’t left wondering “what now?” Instead, they were given the confidence they needed to ensure they remained connected to the Invictus Movement, to each other and to their community through sport:

"This camp was the perfect full stop to an unforgettable 18-month journey with the Adaptive Sport Programme. I’ve found community, resilience and friendships I’ll carry for life. After this weekend, I am excited to see what’s next - whether it’s a new challenge, a fresh adventure, or simply continuing to show up with purpose.” - SGT Emily Lahey, Warrior Games 2024 and Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025 Team Australia competitor.

A standout feature of the camp was the involvement of veterans who shared their first-hand experience on the benefit connecting through community sport post an international event. Ryan Gaylard, Bec Kuenstner and Colleen Swifte all shared their lived experience to inspire and guide others.

Ryan coached and competed with Team Invictus Australia at the 2022 and 2024 World Lifesaving Championships, leading daily yoga and meditation sessions to better connect and ground the team. His message centered on the importance of structure, mindfulness and community, especially for those in the Defence community, who are used to strict routine. According to him, finding a community allows you to discover your purpose.

Ryan found purpose through surf lifesaving, a sport that brings people together in a way that felt familiar post military life, and he also utilises his local yoga community to give him the camaraderie he misses from the Defence Force. His message throughout the camp was to keep moving and keep finding sport as it helps guide you through all the setbacks you have and will continue to have.

Collen Swifte shared her journey of physical and mental recovery through sport after being discharged from the Army in 2006.

After injuries and a PTSD diagnosis, she took up cycling, which gave her many physical benefits, as well as a renewed sense of identity and connection within the cycling community. Inspired by the Invictus Games in Sydney in 2018, she went on to compete in The Hague (2022) and Düsseldorf (2023), in cycling, sitting volleyball, rowing, swimming and wheelchair basketball.

Colleen spoke with camp participants about adapting to a new sport, persevering through the challenges of group cycling and learning track cycling skills and how she gained a whole new community through the sport. She emphasised the importance of the group staying engaged with sport and each other after the Games.

For Colleen, who is studying Law and continuing to use cycling for exercise and connection, that means planning her busy weeks to get her rides in, however she encouraged the competitors to discover what works for them. Her next challenge will take her to Denmark to participate in the Ride4Rehab cycling race, with a team of international veterans supported by the Invictus Games Foundation.

The camp offered a wide variety of activities designed to suit all fitness levels and spark interest in new pursuits. The focus was on participation, enjoyment, and exposure to sports that veterans can continue in their own communities. Activities included:

• Yoga and meditation – to build routine, calm, and physical awareness
• Running and walking – to promote individual fitness and introduce a sustainable way to stay active
• Learn to Surf – giving participants the chance to challenge themselves in a supportive setting
• E-sports – with Veteran Gaming Australia (VGA) facilitating Rocket League games and promoting the mental health benefits of gaming. Sam Harris, Founder of this organisation, volunteered his time, alongside his daughter Emma, to take the group through the game and how they can stay involved in gaming in their local areas by connecting with VGA.
• Sitting Volleyball and Pickleball – inclusive and fast-paced team sports that encouraged fun, camaraderie, and competition

Aside from allowing the group to reconnect outside of the international sporting arena, these sessions meant veterans could try a variety of sports, reflective of Invictus Australia's other stream of work which sees Veteran Engagement Managers connect with local clubs and national sporting organisations to provide community sporting opportunities across the country. These events are accessible to all veterans and family members, and all camp attendees were encouraged to use these local opportunities to keep connected through the power of sport.