ADG Community Grants Program Supports Veteran Health and Wellbeing Through Reeling Veterans Initiative

Airport Development Group (ADG) is proud to support Reeling Veterans Inc. through the ADG Community Grants Program, reinforcing the importance of recognising and supporting the health and wellbeing needs of Australia’s veterans.

The grant supported Reeling Veterans’ Off Grid project, enabling the organisation to expand its reach into remote and regional locations through enhanced satellite communication capability. The initiative improves safety, connection and access to support services for veterans participating in therapeutic fishing programs across Northern Australia.

Reeling Veterans is a veteran-led mental health charity that uses fishing as an alternative form of therapy, creating safe environments where veterans can reconnect, share lived experiences and strengthen peer support networks.

ADG Executive General Manager People, Culture and Community, Sandra de Kock, said supporting organisations that deliver practical wellbeing outcomes aligns strongly with ADG’s commitment to community investment.

“Supporting the health and wellbeing of our veteran community is incredibly important. Programs like Reeling Veterans recognise that recovery and connection can happen outside traditional settings.

ADG is proud to support initiatives that provide meaningful opportunities for veterans to reconnect, reduce isolation and access support in ways that work for them.

ADG is proud to support initiatives that provide meaningful opportunities for veterans to reconnect, reduce isolation and access support in ways that work for them.”

Through the grant funding, Reeling Veterans installed mobile Starlink communication technology, allowing reliable connectivity during remote outreach programs.

The technology has already supported more than 40 veterans within weeks of implementation, improving communication access, safety outcomes and response times when assistance is required.

President of Reeling Veterans Inc., Michael Hurren, said the partnership enables the organisation to reach veterans who may otherwise struggle to access support.

“Many veterans live or travel in remote areas where connection to services can be challenging. The support from ADG allows us to safely expand our programs and reach more veterans who need connection, understanding and peer support.

This project strengthens our ability to deliver ongoing wellbeing programs and ensures no veteran feels isolated, regardless of where they are.”

The ADG Community Grants Program supports initiatives that strengthen community wellbeing, promote inclusion and create lasting social impact across the Northern Territory.

ADG remains committed to partnering with community organisations that deliver tangible outcomes and support those who have served Australia.