August 5, 2025
Extension of Collaboration With parkrun Australia Emphasising Shared Focus on Social Connection and Mental Health for Defence Communities
Invictus Australia have extended their national community partnership with parkrun Australia, reinforcing a joint commitment to supporting the health and wellbeing of veterans and their families through movement, connection, and community.
This strategic partnership began in 2019, when Invictus Australia and parkrun Australia joined forces to promote parkrun as a welcoming space for the defence community and their families to connect through physical activity and shared purpose. From the outset, the initiative encouraged participation in any form whether walking, running, rolling, volunteering, or simply cheering from the sidelines.
At the heart of this collaboration was the creation of the parkrun group ‘Team Veteran’, which has grown steadily to become one of the top three parkrun groups nationally. parkrunners can belong to up to five parkrun ‘groups’, which appear next to their name in the parkrun results tables, creating a sense of belonging and pride. With 1,676 members, Team Veteran stands as a powerful symbol of the defence community in Australia coming together to connect, engage and support each other.
“Veterans are involved in many ways at parkrun, from core team volunteers to course participants. Their presence and contribution is well recognised within our community and we are proud to provide a space where they feel valued, connected and supported”
A Shared Mission: Connection, Purpose and Wellbeing
The extension of this partnership comes at a critical time. The Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide has underscored the urgent need for initiatives that foster social connection, reduce isolation, and provide a sense of purpose, factors that are strongly linked to improved mental health outcomes for veterans and families.
A free community event held at 520 locations across Australia every Saturday morning, parkrun can help to address some of these challenges. Whether walking, running, volunteering, or simply showing up to support others, participants are welcomed into an inclusive environment that promotes regular physical activity and meaningful social interaction.
For Team Veteran, parkrun has become a powerful platform for connection and contribution. Together, members of the group have completed the 5km course more than 114,000 times, covering over 574,000 kilometres, while also carrying out more than 26,000 volunteer roles. One Team Veteran member even started a new parkrun when her family was posted to a town that didn’t have one. This shared commitment to health, service, and community reflects the very values that underpin both parkrun and the defence community: connection, purpose, and collective wellbeing.
“parkrun offers a simple yet powerful way for veterans and their families to stay active, connect with others, and support their mental wellbeing. It’s inclusive, accessible, free, and aligns perfectly with our mission to strengthen the health of the Defence community through sport and recreation,” said Toni Cumpston, Director of Community Participation and Impact, Invictus Australia.
Evidence-Based Impact
parkrun continues to demonstrate its value as a weekly community event that supports both physical and mental wellbeing. Research from the Sydney School of Public Health at the University of Sydney into parkrun in Australia shows that regular participation leads to improved physical health, including increased activity levels, enhanced fitness, and healthier body weight. These outcomes are particularly evident among those who attend consistently.
The study also showcased that the benefits of parkrun include mental health improvements. Its welcoming and social environment helps reduce feelings of isolation and anxiety, while fostering greater confidence and happiness. These outcomes align closely with the priorities identified by the Royal Commission for promoting long-term wellbeing and fostering social connection.
This year-long study reported significant improvements in happiness and stress levels, especially among individuals new to running or regular exercise. This highlights the inclusivity of parkrun and reiterates that participants do not need to be experienced athletes to experience positive change. They just need to show up and have a go in a space where everyone is welcome and supported.
Being involved in parkrun provides shared purpose, where participants can pursue personal health goals while contributing to a supportive and inclusive community. This collective experience strengthens social bonds and supports mental wellbeing, key factors in suicide prevention and long-term health.
Join THE Movement
The Invictus Australia ‘Team Veteran’ parkrun group is open to all veterans, current and former serving members (including reservists), and their families and friends. 76-year-old Vietnam Veteran, Bomber Hutchinson, served with the 3rd Cavalry Regiment and is a regular parkrunner as part of Team Veteran.
“I love going away with my camper trailer on Friday nights and staying in a town that has a parkrun,” says Bomber. “To be able to take part in a free 5k event with local people in so many different places is magic and helps me to stay happy and healthy when I’m on the road.”
“You’re not going to meet anyone if you’re sitting at home, so being part of Team Veteran is like a form of group therapy. We all know that physical activity helps our physical and mental wellbeing but we don’t all do it, so it’s important to start with a low barrier activity such as parkrun and then gradually build up.”
Whether you’re aiming for a personal best or simply looking to connect with others and enjoy the outdoors, there’s a place for you. Click here to find out more about how to join parkrun group Team Veteran.
Looking to get involved in sport in your region? Connect with our staff through your regions Facebook group or email support@invictusaustralia.org.
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