APOD Walk for a Veteran with PTSD

The 2023 APOD Walk for a Veteran with PTSD event unfolded along the Adelaide coastline on a pleasant morning on Saturday 29th July. The walk, aimed at supporting the health and wellbeing of veterans, first responders and their families drew in huge crowds from the defence and veteran community and first responders.

Over $20,000 has been raised so far from the event, with funds being donated to the event charity partners The Partners of Veterans Association of Australia Inc. and SA Police Legacy.  

The APOD Team, comprising of staff members, their families, and friends, as well as APOD members, has raised over $4,500 for the cause this year alone. APOD member and Veteran Andy Irvine led the fundraising for the team with over $1,300 donations to his name.  

The APOD team had members walking between 14KM and 42KM on the day, as they walked with the community of soldiers from Charlie Company 7RAR, veterans and family members. 

Paul and Wesley from APOD with APOD member Andy (in the middle).

APOD member Brad (on the right) visiting our office a few days before his 7KM walk.

Soldiers from Charlie Company 7RAR.

The APOD Team expressed gratitude for the enthusiastic participation of APOD members and friends of APOD, including Andy Irvine, Brad Flaherty, Lynda Evans, Pauline Gardiner, Stephen Toon, Aaron Toon, Jerry Toon, Angela D, Adam Green, Kirstine Lackey, Kate D, Randall J, Bernie White, and Lizzie White. The team is also deeply thankful to every individual who generously supported the cause through their donations. 

The event commenced with a heart-warming Welcome to Country delivered by Isaac Hannam at 06:45 am, at Seacliff Surf Life Saving Club. Isaac Hannam is a proud Kaurna and Ngarrindjeri man who through continual learning and practice, integrates culture through his everyday life. His dedication to continual learning and practice is a testament to his passion for preserving and celebrating his people and culture. 

Welcome to Country delivered by Isaac Hannam.

Walkers starting off at 7am from Seacliff Surf Life Saving Club.

Speaking on the occasion, APOD CEO Paul Broadbridge who completed the 42KM walk said, “It’s an absolute honour for APOD to be the naming sponsor of the event, and it’s amazing to see such an awesome turnout today.” He continued saying that at APOD, our commitment to the veteran and first responder community runs deep. We understand the unique struggles they encounter, especially those who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). We recognise the toll that their service can take on their mental and emotional well-being. That’s why events like this walk are crucial as they not only raise funds for vital support organisations but also raise awareness about the importance of mental health within these communities.

“It’s an absolute honour for APOD to be the naming sponsor of the event, and it’s amazing to see such an awesome turnout today.”

APOD CEO Paul Broadbridge at the end of his 42KM walk.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, participants gathered at Seacliff Surf Life Saving Club, where live entertainment by Rob Elliot, speeches, and presentations by organisers and sponsors set the stage for a memorable evening. The occasion culminated with a hearty dinner, fostering camaraderie among all attendees. 

From left to right: Chad Mclaren from Walk for a Veteran with Senator Andrew McLachlan and Paul Broadbridge of APOD.

The primary goal of the walk is to raise awareness about the physical and mental health challenges faced by military and emergency services personnel, as well as their families. By donating, you can help draw attention to these crucial issues and contribute to the overall well-being of our heroes. If you would like to donate to the cause, please visit https://www.mycause.com.au/p/316224/apod

Once again, we extend our heartfelt appreciation for supporting our ongoing efforts to raise funds and awareness in support of veterans and emergency services workers. Your contribution plays a vital role in making a positive impact in their lives. Together, we can continue honouring our heroes and making a lasting difference. Thank you!

See you again at the walk next year.