Military’s mighty show
Convoy to open health discussion
ONE of Australia’s largest military convoys will arrive at Queens Park next Tuesday, carrying with it an important message.
The military and first responder vehicles will drive from Brisbane with the aim of raising awareness for post traumatic stress disorder.
Organiser Sally Hodder hopes the display will open the discussion on a condition that affects thousands of Australians annually.
“PTS doesn’t discriminate, it’s a very big problem in our community that affects more than just those in the military,” Ms Hodder said.
“It can strike victims of crime and abuse, those caught in natural disasters and first responders.
“Because the convoy is so visual and hard to miss, we are hoping that it will give people a reason to come see us if they need to talk.”
The convoy, titled the Lightning Bolt Invictus Convoy, is a brainchild of Vietnam veteran Tony Dell.
Mr Dell was diagnosed with PTSD 14 years after he returned from the war.
It toured the country in 2016, but this year will be the first time it stops in Toowoomba.
“We have 16 vehicles altogether - two army bushmasters, a G wagon and support vehicles, plus a range of service vehicles in the convoy,” Ms Hodder said.
“For the Toowoomba stop we will be escorted into town by police and two rescue helicopters, as well as veteran bikers who will be riding Harley-Davidsons. “We encourage everyone to come and see the vehicles, it’s pretty rare to catch some of them outside military action.
“And yes, kids will be able to hop in and have a look at the fire engines.
“We are hoping this is good enough incentive for people to come down and visit us.”
The convoy will arrive at Queens Park, Toowoomba at 11am next Tuesday.
It will then continue on its 16 day journey, travelling north before coming back across state lines to Parramatta.