Ending 2025 with creative, peaceful and reflective wellbeing activities
The festive season can sometimes be challenging, especially for families navigating life in service. That’s why our Wellbeing Program continues to create meaningful experiences for war widows, defence and veteran family communities, bringing people together through activities that nurture creativity, reflection and care. From peaceful walks to crafts and writing sessions, our wellbeing activities have multiple benefits all with one objective in mind, supporting you, the way you need it.
In this post, we look back on the activities that are closing out 2025, featuring the wellbeing benefits of giving and reflecting. Whether online or in person, each activity provides a different experience but the same safe space and focus on wellbeing. This year was full of activities that have expanded thanks to the recommendations of families and all of the positivity they have received. Your voice matters, and has allowed us to continue these activities with so much more to come in the new year for you to look forward to.
Wellbeing walks
In November, Canberra defence and veteran families gathered for a walk through the peaceful wetlands, taking in the natural beauty while reconnecting with one another. The morning provided a welcome pause from daily routines, and a great way to start off the day. Our wellbeing walks along the wetlands have been a recurring walk location due to it’s scenic views and enjoyable walking trail. After the walk, the group enjoyed lunch at Brodburger and Capital Brewing Co., continuing conversations.
Earlier in November, war widows came together for a special walk at the Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway, marking the long-awaited return of the war widows walk. The day began with a guided tour through the memorial gardens and Education Centre, offering moments of reflection for those who served, as well as Board Member Jennifer Collins AM and member Wendy laying a wreath on behalf of all families of veterans at the Memorial Centrepiece. Whilst the ladies present had visited the Track several times throughout the years, the Track is still refreshing, pleasant, and an opportunity to learn so much about those who served. The scenery may be familiar, but each walk brings new conversations and connections with each year it is held. Ladies present said they hope more can join in the future.
In December, families gathered for a walk along the shores of Lake Burley Griffin. The lakeside setting provided a calm backdrop for participants to relax and share stories as they strolled together. Following the walk, the group enjoyed lunch at The Jetty, where conversations flowed and friendships deepened.
Creativity in Christmas, a focus on giving and reflecting
In late November, families of veterans gathered at the Randwick Family Centre for a morning of watercolour painting and Christmas card making. One of the most fulfilling ways to utilise an artwork is to give, making it special for both the painter and the recipient. All sorts of art works were drawn on the Christmas cards with the thought of someone being able to open a handmade card designed just for them. Attendees connected over their art making and conversation while enjoying a lovely snack spread. “Thank you for running this activity, it was a lovely way to spend the morning together.”
Families of Veterans Guild staff came together online in November for an afternoon of Christmas card writing. Wearing Santa hats whilst enjoying chocolates and gingerbread men, the group had conversations while focusing on writing cards to our war widow members. The Guilds annual tradition of Christmas card writing is a simple yet meaningful activity that is all about giving back and acknowledging the importance of staying together and letting everyone in this community know that they are not alone.
In December, war widows and families of veterans gathered for a morning of crafting lavender felt hearts that will go towards our grief packs, supporting other families. As felt hearts were hand-sewn and filled with fragrant lavender, conversation flowed among participants. Christmas time is about giving, making this activity perfect for December time. These felt hearts were made with thoughts towards the person that would receive the small yet meaningful gift. After lunch, the group packed up a box full of hearts, the box of love ready to send to war widows and families in times of need.
Writing through grief
In December, war widows and families of veterans joined our popular Writing Through Grief session online, exploring how grief is experienced during the festive season. Through creative storytelling, participants wrote poems and short stories, shared reflections, and supported one another in a safe, welcoming space. Born from an idea shared by a war widow, these sessions have become a valued activity for connection and healing, becoming a safe space for many that look forward to reconnecting each time we host this activity. “This group has really helped me. I love creative writing and it helps me get all my thoughts out.” Check out our next upcoming writing through grief online.
These activities are just some of the variety of activities available through our Wellbeing Program. If you missed out or are looking for other ways to get involved, stay tuned for upcoming activities designed to support and connect war widows, defence and veteran families of all kinds. Subscribe to our Wellbeing Newsletter so you don’t miss a thing!
