KERRI-ANN WOODBURY
ADF Service: I joined the Australian Army as a Nursing Officer in 2007 and discharged in 2012.
Other information: I have a wonderful partner, and four amazing kids. Once you add two geriatric miniature dachshunds and a bossy cat, we have a very full house!
Age: 46
Hometown: Port Macquarie, NSW
Current Town: Brisbane, QLD
What is the Nature of your injury or illness? I have a mix of physical and mental injuries. The most physically impactful is a back injury which has resulted in my spine being fused from L3 down, and both hips fused.
Sporting background: I've always enjoyed sports and being active. Since my injuries, I've discovered new sports that I can compete in, including para-triathlon, wheelchair AFL and wheelchair rugby league.
When did you first connect with the Invictus Movement?
I've followed the Invictus Movement since it began and always thought it sounded like a fantastic opportunity. I actually connected with wheelchair rugby league through a Facebook post from an Invictus Australia team member in the South East Queensland Region.
What role has sport played in your rehabilitation?
Sport and physical activity have been integral to my “new normal” state of being post-service. It took me several years to find activities that I can physically participate in and feel a sense of achievement, and it's been fantastic in helping me connect with other veterans and the sporting community at large.
What is your greatest achievement to date?
My amazing children, of course! And also completing my PhD, which researched the impact of deployment with the Australian Army on intimate relationships.
Why did you apply for the Adaptive Sports Program?
I'm at a point in my rehabilitation and reintegration journey where I feel I can successfully be a part of a team and positively contribute to that team. Sport and physical activity are a huge part of my life and being able to participate within my current abilities is fantastic.
How did you feel when you were told you would make the team?
I was so excited! It's given me a new focus for my training, and being part of such a great team is inspiring.
What will ‘winning’ look like for you at this event?
Wearing the green and gold, and representing my country, will be a huge 'win' for 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