Sixteen soldiers and officers from the 2nd/14th Light Horse Regiment (Queensland Mounted Infantry) recently had a change of scenery, taking to the crystal blue waters of Mooloolaba, sailing with Saltwater Veterans Sailing Project.
Saltwater Veterans is a non-profit organisation aiming to establish a supportive community of serving and non-serving members who use sailing to help build teamwork and provide a network of like-minded people.
The day started with Saltwater Veterans instructors teaching soldiers the fundamentals of sailing, then dividing them into teams of four and launched the sailing boats onto the water.
The regiment's Captain Stefano Rankin was encouraged by the success of the water activity, particularly aspects of resilience training.
"The instructors taught us how to fill the various crew positions, and how to manipulate the sails and boat position depending on the angle of the wind," Captain Rankin said.
"It was really rewarding when we started to get the hang of it, making a change to the shape of the sail and feeling the boat respond to it."
With training complete, it then became competitive, as the crews put their new skills to the test in a mini regatta.
While they weren't racing for 'sheep stations,' the training did give soldiers important social connections as well as the chance to work in different teams. For some, the sailing experience was a first.
"All of the instructors had different backgrounds, but you could see that they formed a really strong team," Captain Rankin said.
"I think the biggest take-away from the day was an initial exposure to the world of sailing.
"It exposed everyone to a really supportive veteran community and that you can continue to connect with other veterans after you leave the ADF.
"It was a great day out and I know that those who attended are keen to continue to connect with Saltwater Veterans Sailing community."
