This episode will explore the inspiring story of veteran and Soldier On Ambassador, Ben Farinazzo.

 

Ben was one of 5,500 Australians that were deployed as part of the Australian-led multi-national peacemaking task force, the International Force East Timor (INTERFET), established to restore order and provide humanitarian aid following extreme violence in the country.

 

The experience would prove to be a very rewarding one, but would ultimately lead Ben to unanticipated mental health challenges.

 

Years after returning home, Ben suffered physical injuries from a mountain bike accident that nearly left him as a quadriplegic or dead, which forced him to face his own mortality and mental health issues.

 

This episode is an important human-story, that offers a perspective of resilience and self-reflection.

 

If you have been affected by anything discussed in this episode you can contact:

Lifeline on 13 11 14

13 YARN on 13 92 76 (24/7 crisis support phone line for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people)

 

CREDITS:

 

Host: Hugh Riminton

Guests: Ben Farinazzo

Producer: Ryan Banks & Matthew Tankard

Editing, music & mixing: Matthew Tankard

 

Special thanks to ArtSound FM in Canberra

 

This podcast is a Smart Fella Media production

 

You can learn more about Soldier On at www.soldieron.org.au

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.