By Tate Papworth
For many ex-servicemen and women, the TPI (Totally and Permanently Incapacitated) group is a place to spend time with others who have lived similar experiences.
It’s a safe space where returned servicemen and women can meet, enjoy a drink, an afternoon activity or a meal.
At the group’s recent meeting it was all about giving back – members raised $500 to donate to Cam’s Cause, a not-for-profit which seeks to honour the life of Corporal Cameron Baird, who was shot dead during a battle to take an insurgent-held compound in the village of Ghawchak, in Afghanistan’s Khod Valley.
One of the organisation’s primary objectives is to raise funds to assist with soldier welfare.
Cam’s Cause vice president Chris Dyer said the contribution will go a long way.
“The money will go directly towards funding the second commando regiment wellness camp,” he said.
“We fund the fares, accommodation, psychology, counselling costs for the guys to
go away.
“The camps are designed for the soldiers to enjoy outdoor activities, but at the same time provide professional support for things like PTSD and anxiety disorders.
“Without funding they don’t go anywhere – this helps us operate.”