05/08/2026

Federal Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan this morning joined Coffs Coast Legacy Directors Rhod Cook and Ray Silins and Community Services Manager Jane Sury to celebrate their successful application for funding under the Veteran Wellbeing Grants (VWG) Program 2025/26.

Coffs Coast Legacy was awarded $18,669.50 to deliver art therapy programs for veterans, partners and families at the Coffs Harbour Botanic Gardens. The funding will cover facility hire, therapist costs, artworking tools and equipment as well as volunteer expenses.

Designed to foster inclusion and connection within the wider veteran community, the wellbeing initiative will be run by registered art therapists and provide regular creative sessions in a calm natural environment.

Federal Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan acknowledged the ongoing work of Coffs Coast Legacy and praised their continued positive impact on the lives of veterans and their families.

“Organisations like Coffs Coast Legacy are so important for veterans and their families and we are extremely lucky to have such a dedicated local team,” Mr Conaghan said.

“Legacy has a proud history of helping families carry on with their lives after the loss or injury of their loved one, a promise they made in 1923 and have now upheld for over a century. It’s great to see their work continue to evolve and modernise to meet the needs of the wider veteran community. This wellbeing initiative is a wonderful example of a volunteer driven group that listens to veterans and their families and adapts to provide the supports that best benefit them.”

Coffs Coast Legacy Director Rhod Cook was thankful for the Federal Funding and the acknowledgement from Government that wellbeing supports come in many forms.

“We undertook a survey in 2024 that identified a strong desire among veterans, partners and families for creative programs that promote wellbeing and social connection. Many respondents reported feelings of isolation, stress and limited access to veteran

specific non-clinical wellbeing activities. After hearing this, we developed a one-off Veterans Wellbeing Week art therapy event last year. Our event participants reported reduced stress, increased connection, and a strong desire for the program to continue on a regular basis. It’s wonderful to now be able to deliver that for them.” Mr Cook said.

Coffs Coast Legacy Community Services Manager Jane Sury reaffirmed the importance of accessibility to all members of the wider veteran community.

“Each session will incorporate guided creative activities and reflective group discussion to promote regulation, connection and stress reduction. The program is designed to be trauma

informed and accessible to all veteran cohorts. Importantly, concurrent children’s activities will allow parents to participate in the art program, allowing better focus and engagement. Everyone can be included and supported. That’s what Legacy is all about.” Ms Sury stated.

ENDS