Revised program a hit with soldiers

Department of Defence

Lavarack Barracks’ Human Performance Centre had a 300 per cent increase in people attending programs following a redesign of its delivery model earlier this year.

The centre has been using a tailored delivery model to help soldiers recovering from injury or wanting to optimise performance.

3 Brigade senior health officer Lieutenant Colonel Simon O’Regan said the centre offered tools to help with rehab from injury, nutritional development and pain management.

“They also have a range of opportunities, including performance psychology, to provide tools and lessons to enhance recovery, sleep, physical performance and wellness,” Lieutenant Colonel O’Regan said.

The program, which began more than 10 years ago, was reviewed by 3 Brigade at the start of this year before a redesign was rolled out.

“The feedback to date has been overwhelmingly positive,” Lieutenant Colonel O’Regan said.

“Positive experiences lead to better recovery outcomes and can also enhance our people’s leadership skills when they have a team member who may be injured or needing assistance.”

The tailored program ensures 3 Bde soldiers have knowledge and skills to optimise individual functioning.

“Our work, at times, exposes us to risk of injury, and providing an environment and the tools that provide them the opportunities to rehabilitate and recover is crucial,” Lieutenant Colonel O’Regan said.

“A soldier that feels valued and is part of a team that supports them is better for the organisation and the individual. Better people make better soldiers.”

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