Ocean Tomkins - Invictus Australia

Case study

Ocean Tomkins
Army & RAAF Veteran
ACT Region

OVERVIEW

Ocean Tomkins, a former Army and Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) veteran, has always had a strong connection to sport. Throughout his 30 years in the military, sport was key for staying fit, maintaining mental health, and fostering camaraderie. His passion for swimming, which began at age four, remained central to his life during and after service.

challenge

Ocean’s journey faced significant setbacks, including a chronic leg injury in 2014 that led to 14 operations and ultimately forced him to stop the sports he loved.

In 2023, at age 54, he suffered a stroke and transitioned out of Defence. These health issues caused mental and physical challenges, leaving him struggling with isolation and a loss of purpose.

JOURNEY

In December 2023, Ocean made the life-changing decision to have a below-knee amputation to alleviate the persistent pain. This led to his return to swimming in June 2024, where he connected with Invictus Australia’s Local Veteran Engagement Manager, Debbie.

Through Invictus, Ocean began participating in adaptive sports and local events, reconnecting with veterans and their families and finding a supportive community to aid his recovery.

today

Today, Ocean feels empowered, physically stronger, and mentally revitalized. Sport has once again become a vital part of his life, helping him regain both his physical fitness and emotional well-being. Ocean’s passion for swimming remains strong, and he has set his sights on competing in the Paralympics. In addition, he is eagerly awaiting the arrival of a specialized running blade, which will allow him to return to running, further expanding the ways he can engage in sport.

The social connections and camaraderie he has found through Invictus Australia have been transformative for his mental health. He now has a strong sense of community that has helped him navigate the challenges of reintegrating into civilian life after his transition from Defence.

“Sport has allowed me to feel like a new person. I believe I’ve been given a second chance and I want to make the most of it.

No more pain and being desperate to get back into sport – that is what got me through my injury and recovery.”

OCEAN TOMKINS

army & raaf veteran