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A new modern centre for veterans and their families to connect with each other featuring yoga classes and saunas, a Kids Zone for families, BBQs and a gaming room will open in Rockingham.
In a first for Western Australia, the Goldsworthy Veterans and Families Centre will see the RSL WA step into anew era where the approach to supporting current serving Australian Defence Force members and veterans will centre on a modern holistic hub designed to meet the needs of the people who will bewelcomed through the doors.
RSL WA President Duncan Anderson said the new hub would be a safe, friendly space designed to promote connection while also housing counsellors and psychiatrists plus other services veterans might require.
“Lasting bonds are formed during and long after service, and we are here to help people live their best life during and after military service,” he said.
“Veterans value peer support and are looking for connection with others who have gone through some of the same things. Families of currently serving people and veterans are looking for inclusive environments. The Goldsworthy centre will become a place to gather together where people can also access some of the support people might find hard to secure on their own.”
Announcing the new location on Thursday morning Federal Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel Matt Keogh MP said: “The new centre will bring together the already tight knit Navy community around Rockingham and HMAS Stirling as a one stop shop for not only veteran services, but family supports as well.”
Telehealth appointments will be available, with psychiatric services also located at the centre. Wellbeing will be supported with mindfulness activities, massage chairs, yoga, activities and more.
Social connection will be fostered with organised fishing trips, bike rides and family events.
“The centre will be a safe space for all veterans and their families. This space gives us room to grow and adapt as the needs of our veteran community evolve,” Mr Anderson said.
The centre is located within a Defence Industry Zone, close to Garden Island and HMAS Stirling.
It will host:
- Telehealth room for online counselling and appointments
- Conference and meeting room space
- Yoga classes and physical activity area
- Fully equipped kitchen and lounge for programs and connecting
- Veteran gaming lounge and library
- Kids Zone for families
- Outdoor space for wellness, BBQs, and relaxation
- Education programs on a variety of subject areas
- Peer support, chaplaincy, and Ex-Service Organisation support
- Family-friendly social connection activities and school holiday program
- Advocacy and wellbeing officers
The Goldsworthy Veterans and Families Centre will be located at 1/65 Dixon Road, Rockingham.
