Mick Polak – Camp Gregory Relax, Relate, No pressure & Repellent

Mick opened up his service experience by telling us he went into infantry after signing up in January 74. For a couple of years he was in 2/4 Battalion then set off in a new direction by transferring to RA Signals. He “got out” 21 years later in 1996.

Comparing notes Andy and Mick realised they had both been posted to Cabarlah at different times.

When Australia made a commitment to PNG Bougainville the most challenging part was sending troops out there. Coordinating ships, diplomatic clearances through the Solomon Islands into PNG waters. Coordinating flights of servicemen to Honiara and Bougainville, logistics of every and anything required to get them through to their postings. A highlight was becoming the Vice Commodore of a local yacht Club and the social contact with a cross section of locals when posted there. While in the Solomon’s and planning to come home Mike sustained a bad ankle injury from his usual exercise regime. It escalated into not being unable to work and fulfil his duties. The DVA worked with Mick but the pressure bought on depression and anxiety for his present circumstances and his future prospects.

Mick shares his fitness at that time was at a very active level, then his realisation of how bad this was. How difficult mentally it was to go from high energy to medication and a walking stick. Nine months later he got out. His military career didn’t really suffer he said but to suddenly be in civilian life after a pretty amazing military career and dealing with physical injuries was very daunting.

On DVA claims, it can be stressful navigating the claim process. Anxiety builds thinking how to provide for a young family given his injuries while looking for an outside career. There were knock backs and re-presenting of the DVA claim. His whole process took 7 years but once the claim came through there is a sense of relief and finally you have the resources to take care of yourself, get a care plan and the opportunity for other relaxing pursuits.

For Mick that was wood working, restoring furniture, motorbike riding and fishing. It keeps your mind active but relaxed to meet other veterans at places like Camp Gregory he explained. Mick’s taken his interest in wood turning to a new level by turning out pens for personal gifts on request and shares how you go about getting one. He talks about how he discovered Camp Gregory from a Cabarlah mate who now lives in Hervey Bay.

Contact - Mick Polak
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/campgregoryretreat
Website: https://www.campgregoryveterans.com/
Help Lines Open Arms (VVCS) | Lifeline | RedSix app

"RESPECT, NO POLITICS, WE'RE VOLUNTEERS"

Disclaimer: The accounts and stories are "Real lived experiences" of our guests some of the content may trigger Post Traumatic Stress (PTS) symptoms in some of our audience. Feedback regarding other organisations, courses and initiatives remains largely unsensored. Whether its good or bad they remain the OPINION of our guests and their experiences it is important in building an accurate statistic on what really happens.
During the course of our conversations sometimes sensitive information may be accidentally mentioned, as such, Invisible Injuries respects the law and sensors any information that may breach Operational Security OPSEC

Support the show

S02E05 - Mick Polak (Camp Gregory) 27:07 Share

Invisible Injuries - Podcast

Shownotes Transcript

S02E05 - Mick Polak (Camp Gregory)