Wandering Warriors luncheon with Ben Roberts-Smith, VC, MG

A large audience at the Mercure Brisbane on Wednesday 26 October heard Ben Roberts-Smith VC recount the battle of Eastern Shah Wali Kot, where a small force of Australian Special Forces soldiers prevailed over a numerically superior Taliban group.

The fight saw a battle honour awarded to the SASR and 2nd Commando Regiment, and a Victoria Cross awarded to Ben.

Wandering Warriors secretary and former SAS soldier Audie Moldre said words like exceptional and remarkable didn’t do justice to Ben Roberts-Smith’s story.

“Partly because of his actions and those of his mates that day, but also because of the life lessons he draws on and shares from that extraordinary fight, the true meaning of leadership, moral versus physical courage, honour, duty and steadfast commitment are all part of what our guests took away from the lunch,” Mr Moldre said.

“The standing ovation for Ben and the relevance of his message said it all. Well done and thanks mate.”

He said Wandering Warriors’ great supporter and friend, artist Laura Douglas displayed her latest work, ‘Warhorse’, which she has donated for fundraising.

“A brief glance at Laura’s website shows the quality of her work and the extent of her artistic credentials.”

“In the coming months, we will find ‘Warhorse’ a suitable new owner – you perhaps?”

Wandering Warriors’ COO Mick Donaldson introduced the Corporate Warrior Challenge, teasing prospective starters with promises of being their ‘mentor and tormentor’.

“The CWC is based on ‘lucky dip’ – an ironically titled phase of SAS selection,” Mr Donaldson said.

“A number of corporates and individuals have already signed up, showing that our supporters don’t scare easily.”

Mr Donaldson is Chief Adventurer for TAG, the company that will run the event in early 2017.  Get in early!

Wandering Warriors’ Chairman Terry Nolan and CEO Bob Brett spoke of the evolution of Wandering Warriors and its plans for mentoring, education, employment and other services.

Both thanked all for making Wandering Warriors an increasingly key player in the ex-service community.

Tracey O’Brien said special thanks and presentations went to the Ray White Group, to Ray White Oxenford/Helensvale, to the UQ Business School, Grant Thornton, McCullough Robertson, and to Agri Labour.

“Channel 7’s Bill McDonald gave a performance that showed why he is sought after as an MC,” she said.

“Major Graham Palmer and the men of 7 Brigade were also there, backing Wandering Warriors as they have done from its earliest days.

“The Bushmaster they brought to town was a welcome and significant draw card.

“Special thanks also goes to all who do the background work that makes these events happen: to Tracey O’Brien of mi graphics and to Carol Podesta and her Class Act Event Services.

“But first, last and always, we thank the supporters who allow us the privilege to serve our veterans and their families.” .

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