Regional Heats – Darwin 

On Friday 22nd August, Robertson Barracks came alive for the first-ever Veteran Games Regional Heats in Darwin – proudly backed by the NT Government and supported by 1st Brigade.

90 competitors from Army, Air Force, Marines, and the veteran community pushed through a series of physical and mental challenges and displayed teamwork, mateship and high energy. 

And after an epic day of competition, congratulations to 5/7 RAR! Who were the Champion Team. 
They’ll now carry the NT flag to the Veteran Games 2025 on the Gold Coast, October 11 & 12.

Key Event Information

The Darwin Regional Heats will feature a more compact version of the Veteran Games format seen on the Gold Coast, delivering similar team-based challenges, camaraderie, and competitive spirit in a streamlined one-day event.

Friday 22nd August

Robertson Barracks, 1st Brigade, Darwin NT

8am – 4pm. 

Rough Run Sheet Below: 

Assemble at Parade Ground – 0800

0800 – 1200 Events will take place between 

1200 – 1330 – BBQ lunch break & Recovery session.

1330 will be a breathwork session. 

1400 – 1530 – Final events taking place between  

1530 – Awards Ceremony to close.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER.

Team Captain must register the team & team name first.

Please get your registration in ASAP.

*This is a free event. 

Robertson Barracks, 1st Brigade, Darwin NT

Come along for free and watch the action unfold. Please register to secure your spectator ticket – click here.

Do I need base access clearance?

All attendees will require a valid ID for entry to Robertson Barracks.
A Veteran Games Volunteer will be stationed at the gate to assist with access and directions.
Entry is treated like a controlled open day and coloured wristbands will be provided at check in and QR code registration will help manage access and security for any last minute online registrations.

Do I need to be super fit to participate?

No. Events are designed for teamwork, participation and connection, not elite performance.
Activities vary in intensity and are inclusive for all abilities.
PTIs (Physical Training Instructors) will conduct safety briefings and walkthroughs before events.

Events could include:
– Timed obstacle courses (with modifications as needed)
– Equipment carries (stores, crates, jerry cans)
– Technique drills (e.g., formations or relays)
– KIMS games and observation-based challenges

Support will be available if you are managing injuries or mobility limitations.

Is there an age limit? 

– To compete in the Games you have to be a Current or former serving Veteran, over the age of 18. 

What should I bring?

– Valid photo ID
– Competitors please wear your camo pants, t-shirt and boots to compete in.
– Bring along comfortable activewear suited to warm weather (Budgy Smuggler Safe Activity for Recovery Stations)
– Closed hiking shoes or boots (no thongs/sandals for safety)
– Towel and change of clothes (Ice Baths and Recovery Station)
– Water bottle
– Hat and sunscreen (Darwin heat is no joke)
– Any personal medical items or mobility aids
– A great attitude and sense of humour!

What if I’m nervous about being back on a military base?

We understand. You’re not alone, it’s a common concern.
This isn’t a military event; it’s a veteran-led community experience.
You’ll be surrounded by mates and supporters, not ranks and rules (well mostly).
The goal is connection, camaraderie, and shared purpose, not hierarchy.

Is there support if I feel overwhelmed or need help?

Yes.
– Peer support will be on site.
– Quiet zones and seated rest areas will be available.
– Volunteers and staff (many former serving) will be easy to find and happy to help.

How long are the events?

Each event is short (approx. 10min), team-based, and spread throughout the day. You won’t be running non-stop.
Expect a mix of active, social, and reflective sessions.
There’s plenty of downtime, hydration breaks, and opportunity to spectate or rest.
Shuttle buses will assist with transport between event zones.

Can my family or mates come along?

Yes, but they’ll also need to register – VeteranGames.com/Darwin
– Spectator zones will be marked clearly.
– It is a great family-friendly day supporting the competitors.

Will there be food and drink?

– Mates4mates will be running BBQ for registered competitors and spectators
– We recommend bringing fruit/snacks for additional fuel throughout the day.

Anything else cool happening?

Yes! Possible extras include:

– P3 Recovery Winnelie will be setting up a recovery zone with Massage guns, compression boots and ice baths. 
– There will also be a breath-work session throughout the day.
– And plenty of incredible awards and prizes.

Who is this for?

This is for YOU… The former or current serving member who wants to reconnect, challenge yourself, support others, or just be part of something with meaning and purpose again.
Whether you are still serving, you left last year or 30 years ago you are welcome here.
Age is just a number. Whether you’re charging through an obstacle or just upright with your morning brew, this event is for you.

Still have questions?

Reach out to us VeteranGames@vsf.org.au

If you would like to volunteer to help out the event team on the day. Please email us at VeteranGames@vsf.org.au 

Participation Requirements

Any person who has served within the Australian Defence Force is eligible to compete in the Veteran Games.  Competitors may be former or current serving personnel.  

Below are some recommendations for teams to best prepare for the competition in 2025.

Training Tips for 2025

  • Stretcher Carry
  • Rope Climb & Descent
  • Swimming 50m in clothes
  • 20kg – 50kg equipment carriage as single and pairs
  • Obstacle Course fundamentals – Walls, cargo-net & more
  • Knotts
  • Basic First Aid – Tourniquet, Splints, Bandage applications
  • Tire-flipping technique
  • Shuttle run / short sprints
  • Stores carry 100 – 200m
Veteran Games 2023 Obstacle Course

Ready to take up the challenge?

Register your team below and let the games begin.

Insurance

We have obtained Public Liability coverage to ensure the safety and protection of all attendees. Additionally, we require all stalls and vendors to have their own Public Liability insurance and provide proof of coverage prior to the event to further mitigate any potential risks. We also highly recommend obtaining insurance for yourself to help mitigate potential risks and safeguard against any unforeseen circumstances. These could include:

Personal insurance can help protect against liabilities and unforeseen accidents that may occur during the event.
Travel insurance can provide coverage for unexpected events such as flight cancellations or medical emergencies.

Cancellation policy

If for some reason, including Force Majeure, the Veteran Games must be cancelled, all competitors and supporters will be notified immediately. Registrations will automatically carry forward to the following year and full refunds will be provided to any competitors that choose to withdraw as a result of the event cancellation. Further information will be provided specific to this in the extremely unlikely event of such an occurrence.

Thank you to our Supporting Sponsors