Now taking EOIs to deploy on Operation Locke. Find out more.
Now taking EOIs to deploy on Operation Locke. Find out more.

Volunteer stories

Our volunteer stories shine a light on the motivations and dedication of those who share our vision. Their stories highlight the unwavering commitment of our volunteers to make a positive impact during operations, following a disaster. These are their voices.

Member Reflections

Connecting Communities

Disaster Relief Australia May 2025

Phil Steers joined Disaster Relief Australia in 2021 after seeing a news story on TV which sparked interest. A member…

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Member Reflections

Boots on the ground

Disaster Relief Australia April 2025

Only 12 months on from becoming a volunteer at Disaster Relief Australia (DRA), Coleen Denne is impressed at how regularly…

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Member Reflections, Veteran Reflection

All the Reward I Need, Veteran

Disaster Relief Australia May 2022

A veteran friend suggested I look at Disaster Relief Australia when I was looking for an opportunity to give back…

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Member Reflections, Operation Kelliher Reflection

Take a Leap

Disaster Relief Australia May 2022

I come from a military family. My father is an Officer in the Army Reserve and so I spent much…

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Member Reflections, Operation Kelliher Reflection

Use Any of Your Life Skills

Disaster Relief Australia May 2022

Everybody will be able to make a contribution in some way. They will bring their own life experiences and be…

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Member Reflections, Operation Kelliher Reflection, Operations, Veteran Reflection

Put My Skills to Use Helping

Disaster Relief Australia May 2022

I was drawn to volunteer with Disaster Relief Australia (DRA) due to its focus on supporting veterans. After service in…

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Member Reflections, Operation Kelliher Reflection, Veteran Reflection

Passion to Give up Time for

Disaster Relief Australia April 2022

I first heard about Disaster Relief Australia (DRA) by following the journey of another member who has been with DRA…

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Member Reflections, Operation Kelliher Reflection, Veteran Reflection

Positive Support Through Empowerment – Veteran,

Disaster Relief Australia April 2022

My military service began at age 17 as an Army reservist, with the 2/17 Battalion, Royal New South Wales Regiment.…

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Member Reflections, Operation Kelliher Reflection, Veteran Reflection

True Heroes – Veteran, Wayne Larson

Disaster Relief Australia April 2022

In the 80’s I was a writer in the Navy. My grandfather, my great uncle, cousins, myself and now my…

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We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land where we work and live. We pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging. We celebrate the stories, culture and traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders of all communities who also work and live on this land.