A message from the Returned & Services League of Australia
The 20th edition of the Australian Masters Games was held in Canberra from 18 to 25 October 2025. For the first time, the RSL entered a team as part of the RSL Active initiative, which promotes wellbeing, social connections and camaraderie through sport and activity.
Fourteen RSL members formed Team RSL, competing in Athletics, Archery, Clay Target Shooting, Dragon Boating, Fencing, Lawn Bowls, Sailing, and Swimming. While the team achieved fantastic results, the core philosophy was always "more about mateship than medals." It was about getting involved, being active, sharing camaraderie, and simply giving it a go.
For some team members, this opportunity was the prompt they needed to get active again and establish a goal to train for. Damian, a former member of the Royal Australian Regiment and a member of Geelong RSL Sub-branch, hadn’t participated in competition for 16 years.
‘I was a little tentative entering 4 events, but this has given me the confidence to continue competing and change my life to a more active one,’ says Damian.
Damian competed in shot put, javelin, discus, and weight throwing, taking home an impressive gold, silver, and bronze medal.
‘The ongoing support from RSL and competitors has been fantastic for my return to competition,’ he adds. ‘I have found these games competitive but very friendly, and the camaraderie in the competition tent fabulous.’
The spirit of participation was perfectly captured by Richard, a former Navy Commander and member of the Redcliffe RSL Sub-branch. ‘When RSL Team Coordinator Geoff asked if I could swim, my honest reply was, “Yes, but not very well”,' Richard says. ‘His encouraging response was “It’s about participation”, and so I decided to do it!’
The opportunity motivated Richard to start a training routine: ‘My fitness and swimming ability improved significantly, and I swam well on competition day, despite some less-than-perfect flip turns. But such is the friendliness and “all-are-welcome” attitude of the games, it really is about enjoyable participation.’
Team RSL members gave it their all, crediting their outstanding experience to the efforts of RSL volunteer coordinator Geoff. ‘Geoff’s professionalism, dedication, and support at every event made the experience truly memorable,’ said team member and former RAAF Corporal Maria.
After such an uplifting week, Damian has a message for the veteran community: ‘It is never too late, irrespective of physical or mental injuries, to get active!’
You too can connect with other veterans, improve physical and mental wellbeing, and enhance your support circle. Visit www.rslaustralia.org/rsl-active for more information.
