From Service to Sea: Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association and Invictus Australia Navigate a New Path for Veterans
Navigating life after military service can be challenging, but a new partnership between the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association (AVCGA) and Invictus Australia is set to chart a course for success. Together, these organisations are launching a partnership that will empower veterans and their families to stay connected to their service roots by getting involved with the Coast Guard.
The Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association (AVCGA) is a marine search and rescue organisation in Australia. It is a volunteer-based service dedicated to the safety of boaters and the general public on Australia’s waterways. The AVCGA is organised into flotillas in VIC, SA and QLD, with volunteers who are trained in various aspects of marine safety, search and rescue, and emergency response. Their work is crucial in helping to prevent maritime accidents and ensuring that help is available when needed on Australia’s vast and diverse waterways.
Navigating New Horizons: A Partnership with Purpose
For veterans, the transition to civilian life often involves finding new ways to apply the skills and values they developed during their military careers. The AVCGA provides a unique opportunity for veterans to continue serving their communities, this time on Australia’s waterways. Through this partnership, veterans will be encouraged to bring their military training and experience to the Coast Guard, where they can contribute to vital missions like search and rescue, boating safety, and emergency response.
“This partnership allows veterans to continue their legacy of service in a new and meaningful way. By getting involved with the Coast Guard, they can leverage their unique skills while staying connected to a mission that matters,” said Director Community Participation and Impact at Invictus Australia, Toni Cumpston. “We’re excited to see the impact this collaboration will have on the lives of veterans and their families.”
From Battlefield to Bay: Utilising Military Skills
The skills that veterans bring to the table—such as leadership, teamwork, navigation, first-aid, radio and emergency management—are a perfect fit for the AVCGA operations. This partnership will not only support veterans in finding new ways to use these skills but also ensure that they remain an integral part of Australia’s safety network. Whether it’s as part of a rescue mission or educating the public on safe boating practices, veterans will find that their military background is highly valued and needed in the Coast Guard.
“Our work is reliant on volunteers, so having the ability to work with veterans who possess a wealth of experience is something that will be incredibly valuable to our operations,” said Terry Langford, National Commodore of the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association. “We’re thrilled to launch this partnership, as we believe this partnership will not only strengthen our team but also provide veterans with a rewarding way to continue serving their communities.”
Building Stronger Communities: Support for Families
One of the standout features of this partnership is its focus on the entire veteran family. Invictus Australia has long been committed to fostering community connections through sport and engagement, and now, this mission extends to the Coast Guard. Families of veterans are also encouraged to get involved, creating a supportive environment where everyone can contribute and thrive. Whether it’s through volunteering, participating in events, or taking on leadership roles, the opportunities are vast.
Anchoring a Legacy of Service
Both the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association and Invictus Australia share a deep commitment to service, and this partnership is a natural extension of that commitment. By working together, they are creating pathways for veterans to continue their legacy of service in a new and meaningful way. This isn’t just about volunteering; it’s about building a community where veterans and their families feel valued and connected.
Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association and Invictus Australia are launching their first combined Open Day in South Australia on the 16th of November. The open day will be an engaging opportunity that will showcase essential skills and knowledge for maritime safety, while promoting community involvement and encouraging members of the Defence community to explore opportunities to volunteer with the AVCG. For more details about the event, visit the event page here.
So, if you’re a veteran looking to chart a new course or a family member eager to support the mission, now is the time to get involved. With the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association and Invictus Australia at the helm, the future looks bright for veterans ready to set sail on this new adventure.
Keep an eye out on Invictus Australia socials for more opportunities to get involved.
One of the standout features of this partnership is its focus on the entire veteran family. Invictus Australia has long been committed to fostering community connections through sport and engagement, and now, this mission extends to the Coast Guard. Families of veterans are also encouraged to get involved, creating a supportive environment where everyone can contribute and thrive. Whether it’s through volunteering, participating in events, or taking on leadership roles, the opportunities are vast.
Media Contact:
Nina Willoughby, GoodPR, 0427 400 961
E: nina@goodpr.com.au
About Invictus Australia
Invictus Australia is a leading nonprofit organisation dedicated to strengthening the health & wellbeing of veterans and their and their families through the power of sport. We support and encourage former and current serving members of the Defence community and their families as they connect and engage with their communities through sport, at a grassroots level or internationally, to assist with recovery, rehabilitation, and reintegration, or to proactively manage wellbeing. For more information, visit www.invictusaustralia.org.
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Looking to get involved in sport in your region? Connect with our staff through your regions Facebook group or email support@invictusaustralia.org
