Chelsie clayton
Warrior Games 2024
Invictus Games Vancouver-Whistler 2025
Invictus Australia Sports Festival 2026
ADF service:
I enlisted in the Australian Army in 2016 as a Medic, and also served in Operator Movements towards the end of my career. I was discharged medically in November 2022. I did some natural disaster deployments, such as Bushfire Assist and Covid-19 Assist, and helped with natural disasters in Fiji, Philippines and Papua New Guinea.
Other information:
I’m currently completing a Bachelor of Nursing at ACU and loving every minute of it. My family has always been my greatest support. My amazing younger sister and my loving parents have been incredible role models. I’m also lucky to have my partner, Damon, who I adore and who supports me in everything I do.
I’ve been swimming since I was two years old, and through that passion I’ve been given some incredible opportunities. I competed at the Invictus Games 2025 and the Warrior Games 2024, and I was selected for an eight-day Invictus Red Sea Adventure in Egypt. I was fortunate enough to swim with two wild pods of dolphins, which was an experience I’ll never forget.
Age: 30
Hometown: Brisbane, Queensland
Current town: Brisbane, Queensland
What is the nature of your injury/ illness?
I was diagnosed with bipolar type 2 in 2019, which led to me be medically discharged in 2022. I also have a SLAP tear and arthritis in my left shoulder.
What role has sport played in your rehabilitation?
Sports has always been a massive part of my life, but the Invictus and Warrior Games reignited my passion for swimming again. Before I was selected I had more than ten years out of the pool, and since, I haven’t looked back.
How have you stayed connected to sport?
As well as taking part in the Invictus Red Sea Adventure, I’ve been staying active and getting back into the gym.
How did it feel being told you will compete for Team Australia?
I was thinking about was how excited I was to tell my family and partner I had been selected!
What will 'winning' look like for you at the Invictus Australia Sports Festival 2026?
Watching and supporting my team, as well as meeting new veterans with similar experiences and backgrounds.
“Sport is now helping me maintain purpose, focus and discipline in my everyday life.” – Karl Woodward
Karl is one of 12 Team Veteran Australia members heading to South Africa for the 2026 Lifesaving World Championships! 🇦🇺
The team began in 2022, when Invictus Australia helped create a world-first opportunity for veterans from different surf lifesaving clubs to compete internationally under one team cap.
Now, Karl and five other returning members are joining new teammates for the team’s third World Championships.
Meet Team Veteran Australia 2026 and learn their story via the link in bio.
Put one foot in front of the other. Walk side-by-side with people who get it.
Invictus Australia and The Man Walk are teaming up at Man Walks across the country. At select walks, Invictus Australia representatives will be on site to connect, and provide special challenge coins to the veterans who attend.
It’s an opportunity to get moving, have a chat and connect with others in a relaxed, supportive environment. You might even make a few new mates along the way.
Find a Man Walk near you and come along for some steps and good company.
Some dates are still TBC, so keep an eye on your local Invictus Australia Facebook Group for updates.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning. We will remember them. Lest we forget.
On Remembrance Day, we remember and honour all those who have served, those who continue to serve, and those who gave their lives in service.
We recognise the strength it takes to serve, and the challenges many continue to face long after leaving uniform. We also acknowledge the role the families of veterans play at all stages of service.
If you or you know someone who needs support, there is support available.
For Veterans and families, reach out to @openarmspeers on 1800 011 046, or the general public can call Lifeline anytime on 13 11 14.