JESS FLANAGAN
Invictus Germany Sports Festival 2026
ADF Service: I joined the Australian Army in 2009 and was medically discharged in 2024. Throughout my career I was posted to Townsville and Canberra. I deployed to Afghanistan, Philippines, Malaysia and many other Southeast Asian and Indo-Pacific nations.
Other information: I am currently living in Townsville with my wife Liz, and our two dogs, Indiana and Frank.
Age: 40
Hometown: Sydney
Current Town: Townsville
What is the Nature of your injury or illness? I was medically discharged for numerous psychological and physical injuries.
Sporting background: Growing up, I played a lot of rugby league, then turned my attention to baseball. I also enjoyed skateboarding every free moment I had. During my service I got really into running and spent on-base downtime playing touch football and going to the gym.
When did you first connect with the Invictus Movement?
A friend of mine who previously competed in the Invictus Games with Team Australia encouraged me – she had nothing but good things to say. She explained that it would be beneficial not only for my rehabilitation, but also for my transition into civilian life.
What role has sport played in your rehabilitation?
Since my discharge, I found that I had lost a reason to train and push myself. I still went to the gym and went running, but mostly just to maintain a level of fitness. Since throwing my hat in the ring for the Adaptive Sport Program, I have a newfound goal and something to focus on
What is your greatest achievement to date?
Joining the Army and the subsequent career that followed was a big achievement for me. I had wanted to be a Rifleman for as long as I can remember and as a result have so many great memories and got to do and see so much.
Why did you apply for the Adaptive Sports Program?
I wanted a goal; I also wanted to reconnect with the veteran community. Not to mention, I really wanted to challenge myself and get out of my comfort zone.
How did you feel when you were told you would make the team?
I was surprised. I was also grateful that I had been given another opportunity to represent my country.
What will ‘winning’ look like for you at this event?
Just being able to represent my country again will be winning to me.
LESS THAN 2 WEEKS TO GO TILL THE INVICTUS AUSTRALIA SPORTS FESTIVAL 2026, PRESENTED BY ATCO!
The Invictus Australia Sports Festival 2026, Presented by ATCO, is nearly here.
If you`re in Perth, we`d love to see you there.
On Saturday, head down to Scarborough Beach to cheer on competitors in Indoor Rowing, witness and experience the power of sport at the Community Sport Expo and soak up the Festival atmosphere. Register your interest for the Community Day! Link in bio.
On Sunday, Pickleball and Sitting Volleyball take over Perth HPC, with free tickets available for spectators. Reserve your ticket, link in bio.
Can`t make it to Perth? You can still be part of the support team by taking a Virtual Seat, Row or Corporate Box through our Fill the Stands fundraiser. It`s a simple way to show competitors that a whole community is behind them so they don`t take on their next challenge alone. Link in bio!
Whether you`re there in person or supporting from afar, every bit of encouragement makes a difference.
"It was only when I found Invictus that the positive change started."
Today on World Mental Health Day, we recognise the importance of looking after the mental health and wellbeing of veterans and their families.
For many veterans and family members, sport can play a powerful role in recovery and wellbeing.
Cindy`s story reflects what`s possible when people find connection through sport. After facing some of her toughest moments, it was discovering the Invictus Movement and becoming part of a supportive community that helped her reconnect with herself and build a renewed sense of purpose.
At Invictus Australia, we see every day how sport can bring people together, build confidence, strengthen connections and remind people they are not alone.
If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available. Veterans and their families can contact @OpenArmsPeers on 1800 011 046, while the general public can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
Perth will become the home of the Invictus Australia Sports Festival 2026, Presented by ATCO, with each day taking us to a different part of the city. Explore the venues that will bring the Festival to life with this Venue Guide!
A special thank you to the @citystirlingwa for supporting our Scarborough activities and Venues West for helping deliver the Festival at the @perth.hpc
If you`re in Perth, join us for our free Community Day and Indoor Rowing competition on Saturday at Scarborough Beach. No ticket is required.
For Sunday`s events, head to @perth.hpc for Day 2 of the competition. Reserve your free ticket via Eventbrite.
Can`t make it to Perth? Take a Virtual Seat, Row or Corporate Box and stand behind the veterans and families competing. Your support helps show those who have served and sacrificed that they are not facing their next challenge alone.
Links in bio!
• Day 2 Eventbrite Registration
• Purchase a Virtual Seat