Veteran Sport Australia was established as a legacy of the successful Invictus Games, held in Sydney last October. The program is focused on using the power of sport to help veterans and their families improve their health and wellbeing.
Sport and recreation have proven themselves valuable allies in a holistic program of activity to improve health and wellbeing. It’s proactive, it’s positive and it’s a lot of fun!
Michael was Chief Delivery Officer for the Invictus Games in Sydney in 2018. The Invictus Games use the power of sport to inspire recovery, support rehabilitation and generate a wider understanding and respect for defence personnel who are striving to overcome physical and emotional challenges. The Games also recognise the critical role of family and friends in the recovery process.
This webinar took place 2 PM, Tuesday 10 September 2019
More about the presenters
Michael Hartung
Michael is the General Manager of Veteran Sport Australia. VSA is an initiative that connects veterans and their families with individual and team sport, recreational programs, one-off competitive events, camps and Games, with the ultimate goal of improving their physical and mental health and wellbeing. Michael was previously the Chief Delivery Officer for the Invictus Games Sydney 2018, and a member of the 2018 Invictus Games Bid Steering Committee. The Invictus Games use the power of sport to inspire recovery, support rehabilitation and generate a wider understanding and respect for defence personnel who are striving to overcome physical and emotional challenges. The Games also recognise the critical role of family and friends in the recovery process.
Prior to his time working on the Invictus Games, Michael spent 10 years with the Australian Paralympic Committee (APC), carrying out roles including Chief Executive Officer and General Manager, Sport. During his decade with the APC, he held management positions on four Paralympic Teams (including Chef de Mission in 2010 and Deputy Chef de Mission in 2012).
Rachel Kerrigan
Rachel is the Veteran Engagement Specialist for Veteran Sport Australia.
Rachel spent seven years serving in the Royal Australian Air Force and saw active service as part of the International Coalition Against Terrorism under the American Operation Enduring Freedom, serving as part of the Australian Operation Slipper force in 2002. She is an Electrical Engineer and, after leaving the military, was a successful Project Manager and Contract Administrator within heavy industry and Defence. In 2010 Rachel was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Severe Depressive Disorder, after suffering a stress induced stroke. That was just the start. Rachel found sport as a way to improve her health and wellbeing. In 2016, she competed at the Invictus Games as part of the Australian Team and continues to be involved in sport to this day.