Sport
14 December, 2025
New veteran sports venture
GALLIPOLI Medical Research has launched a new program that brings together Queensland’s peak sporting bodies and the veteran community to support healthier, more connected lives through research.
The Friends of Gallipoli Medical Research initiative was launched by Sport, Racing, Olympic and Paralympic Games Minister Tim Mander.
“There are so many parallels between sport and military service: teamwork, leadership, physical fitness, endurance and tactical thinking, to name a few,” he said.
“The partnerships will bring the unifying power of sport to honour, support, and uplift Australian military veterans.
“As Queensland prepares to host the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, there is no better time to demonstrate how veterans and sport together can inspire resilience, inclusion and legacy.”
Gallipoli Medical Research, based at Greenslopes Private Hospital, conducts biopsychosocial research into health issues affecting veterans, their families and the wider community.
Chief executive officer Miriam Kent said the collaboration recognised the role sport played in belonging and recovery.
“Sport can play a vital and visible role in honouring, supporting and empowering veterans and their families,” she said.
“Queensland sporting bodies are joining forces with Gallipoli Medical Research to support veterans and their families through awareness, advocacy and fundraising.
“Queensland is home to the largest veteran population in Australia. Townsville is home to the largest Army base in Australia and Amberley is the country’s largest operational Air Force base – so it makes sense that Queensland takes a lead on this research-informed initiative,” she said.
Queensland Cricket chief executive officer Terry Svenson said they were proud to support the program.
“Queensland Cricket is pleased to help support veterans and their families through this partnership with the state government and Gallipoli Medical Research,” he said.
“We will utilise our partnership with the 50:50 Charity Raffle group at a Brisbane Heat home BBL game this summer to assist with raising funds for Gallipoli Medical Research.”
The initiative will also strengthen Gallipoli Medical Research’s partnership with Invictus Australia.
CEO Michael Hartung said a recent report by Dr Miranda Van Hooff highlighted the need for more coordinated research into the role of sport in supporting Defence communities.
“GMR’s announcement will significantly advance this effort,” he said.
“We look forward to continuing our work together to promote the value of sport for veterans and their families.
Ambassadors, veterans and representatives from several sporting codes attended the launch.
Friends of Gallipoli Medical Research includes Queensland Cricket and Brisbane Heat, Little Athletics Queensland, Hockey Queensland, Football Queensland, Tennis Queensland, Queensland Rugby Union and Queensland Reds, Exercise and Sport Science Australia (ESSA), Queensland Rugby League, Sporting Wheelies and Dolphins NRL.
Gallipoli Medical Research will continue working with partners on awareness, advocacy, research and fundraising to support veterans and their families.
