The launch of a new and enhanced professional development series packed a punch at RAAF Base Richmond last month.
The Officers' and Senior Non-Commissioned Officers' (SNCO) messes hosted a 'Resilience and Redemption' Lunch and Learn, featuring guest speaker and two-time world champion boxer, Nigel 'The Dark Destroyer' Benn.
Mr Benn's presentation spanned 50 years of trials, tribulations and trauma.
He spoke at length about losing his brother, serving in the British Army and deploying to Northern Ireland, his meteoric rise in professional boxing, and his rebirth following his sporting retirement.
Engaging the crowd with both humour and humility, he took the audience on a rollercoaster ride, sharing his experiences and views on how to build resilience and finding redemption through faith.
Mr Benn was reunited with Corporal Adrian Rolfe, who had attended workshops with The Dark Destroyer in the 1990s while facing his own personal challenges.
"Nigel pulled me back from the brink as a teen and saved me from myself," Corporal Rolfe said.
"Catching up with him again all these years later allowed me the opportunity to say thank you in person, and for that, I am eternally grateful."
Held in conjunction with on-base National Reconciliation Week activities, President of the Officers Mess Committee Wing Commander Michael Dorman said it was a chance for everyone to come together.
"Within the Defence Culture Blueprint, the messes play an important role in facilitating connection across organisational boundaries," Wing Commander Dorman said.
Chairman of the SNCO Mess Committee Warrant Officer David East said the Lunch and Learn provided networking and development opportunities.
"Events like this are vital to building professionalism, resilience and teamwork," Warrant Officer East said.
"We are looking forward to building on the success of this event with more in the near future."
