PETTY OFFICER JUSTIN BROWN

Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025 Competitor

ADF service: I joined the Royal Australian Navy in August 1995 as a Boatswain’s Mate. In June 2004 I transferred to become an Imagery Specialist (photographer). In January 2013 I deployed to Afghanistan as part of Operation Slipper. The highlight of my career has been attending Anzac Day in France as a photographer and working on the search for Malaysian Airlines MH370. I am currently posted to Navy Imagery Unit East as the Imagery Operations Manager. 

Other information: I have a wife, Gail, and together we have 2 sons, Samuel (17) and Bennet (14). 

Age: 50 

Hometown: Sanctuary Point, NSW 

Current town: Sanctuary Point, NSW 

Competing in: Alpine skiing, indoor rowing, skeleton, and sitting volleyball. 

What is the nature of your injury or illness? Major depression and anxiety. 

Sport background: Growing up I played a few team sports but never really succeeded. I concentrated on outdoor activities including surfing and other water sports. As an adult I have been doing more individual activities, including kiteboarding, stand-up paddle boarding, snow skiing and archery. 

What role has sport played in your rehabilitation? Sport has provided a relief mechanism to allow me to forget about all the problems I am having. It also allows me to reset. 

How did you feel when you were told you made the Invictus Games team? I was excited but also nervous. 

What is your greatest achievement to date? My family. 

Why did you apply for Invictus Games? It was a spur of the moment decision. I wanted to meet more serving and ex-serving personnel who were undergoing their own challenges. 

What will ‘winning’ look like for you at the Games? By going to the Games and making new friends I have already won. It’s not about putting a medal around your neck, it’s about the effort applied and the new friendships made. 

Who is supporting you at the Games? My family will be cheering me on from home.