Jason is a retired Army Sergeant who served 16 years in the Australian Army as a Marine Specialist. Medically discharged in 2015 after years of sustained impact traumas, he was diagnosed with a range of conditions, including Lumbar Spondylosis, Degenerative Disk Disease, PTSD, and TBI. The extensive use of powerful pharmaceuticals (poly-pharmacy) led to severe side effects; cognitive decline, addictions, behavioural changes and social isolation.

In 2018, Jason began exploring medicinal cannabis as an alternative treatment, supported by the Department of Veteran Affairs. This marked a turning point, enabling him to reduce his reliance on pharmaceuticals. A 2021 QEEG Neurofeedback brain scan highlighted the extent of his brain injuries, prompting a focus on holistic health and neuroplasticity. Through a combination of medicinal cannabis, EMDR, psychotherapy, and later, the Revive Ketamine Infusion program, Jason made significant strides in his rehabilitation.

Today, Jason advocates for veterans recovering from PTSD, TBI, and various addictions. He serves as the President of Defence Shed Wagga, a non-profit providing skills training and support to veterans and first responders. Additionally, he is a founding member of the Pro Patria Centre, Wagga's first integrated community medical centre focused on empowering veterans and their families. Jason's dedication has been recognised with a Paul Harris Fellow award and a prestigious NSW Government Community Service Award. His work continues to inspire and support countless veterans and their families.

Wagga Wagga based

Dr. Samantha Jakimowicz is an Associate Professor in Nursing and a qualified psychotherapist. With over $2.4 million in research funding, she leads initiatives that support wellbeing for patients and communities as well as healthcare workers. Her research focuses on the role of compassion and empathy in healthcare, exploring how these values influence patient outcomes, staff wellbeing, and the overall quality of care.

Samantha is widely published in this field and is committed to translating research into meaningful improvements in healthcare practice. She has also led evaluations of national programs supporting rural and remote communities, including the National Rural and Remote Suicide Prevention Program and the Emergency Department Patient Experience Officer Program.

Informed by personal experience, Samantha has a strong interest in supporting the wellbeing of veterans, first responders and their families. This commitment shapes her compassionate approach to research and advocacy, particularly in addressing the unique challenges faced by those who have served. Her work continues to influence policy, education, and practice, making her a respected voice in the advancement of empathetic, evidence-based healthcare.

Sydney based

Jeremy is passionate about community, business, and individual wellbeing, He is deeply aligned with Pro Patria Centre’s mission to restore, regenerate, and empower veterans, first responders, and their families. This work is grounded in a commitment to building social connection, creating pathways to employment, and supporting holistic care across the Riverina.

Jeremy leads a local not-for-profit organisation specialising in employment, training, and HR.

With dual trade qualifications and experience across both profit and not-for- profit sectors, he brings a practical, people-focused approach to Pro Patria Centre

Combining hands-on trade experience with strategic HR leadership, Jeremy is dedicated to helping Pro Patria succeed in its vision to serve humanity and create lasting impact.

Wagga Wagga based

Rory McKenzie LLB GDLP JP 

Rory McKenzie is a respected Board Director, healthcare professional, and business owner with a diverse background spanning law, nursing, emergency services, and defence. He serves on the Boards of The Forrest Centre, The Leisure Company, and Pro Patria Centre, helping guide strategic leadership in aged care, disability, and veteran support.

Rory is the founder and owner of Wagga First Aid Training, delivering nationally recognised training across the Riverina. He is also an Enrolled Nurse, Lawyer, and former Australian Army Reservist Combat Medical Attendant, and continues to serve on the frontline as a current member of the NSW State Emergency Service (SES).

In addition to his operational roles, Rory contributes to local health policy and service delivery through the Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network’s Community Advisory Committee and the Murrumbidgee Local Health District’s Local Health Advisory Committee.

His unique combination of clinical, legal, military, business, and community service experience drives his commitment to public health, safety, and effective, inclusive governance.

Wagga Wagga based

Richard Moffatt is the general manager for Lilier Lodge which is a not for profit regional cancer charity.

Born and raised in Wagga, Richard is a former Australian National Road Cyclist, living in Italy for four years to compete internationally.

After retiring from professional sport, Richard completed an Associate Degree in Policing at Charles Sturt University, working in the NSW Police Force for 8 years. 

Richard opened his first hospitality venue, Meccanico Espresso + Wine in 2019, followed by his second venue, Pastorale, in 2021. His venues bought about high-calibre hospitality and experiences to the regions, developing local supply chain networks and advocating for small businesses

Richard has an extensive fundraising record working closely with Ronald McDonald House, Can Assist and Pro Patria Centre

In his spare time Richard is a passionate road cyclist, runner and traveller, amateur food and wine connoisseur and loves spending time with his two daughters Adelaide and Tuppence.

Wagga Wagga based

Chair of the Pro Patria Centre Ltd Board

Lyle is an electrician with extensive experience in Industrial Automation and Control,

and nearly fifteen years teaching Electrical Trades and Engineering courses at TAFE NSW, Wagga Wagga campus, now retired.

Lyle served with the RAAF as an Air Electronics Analyst, and was a Trustee of the RSL NSW, Wagga Wagga Sub-branch for eighteen years. Lyle was a founding member of the Defence Shed Wagga Wagga, and, with his TAFE connections, was able to facilitate a number of courses for retired defence and first responder personnel. Lyle is also a co-founder of the Pro Patria Centre which provides medical treatment for veterans, first responders and their families that is otherwise not available outside the Metropolitan regions. Lyle is also an Associate Member of the Vietnam Veterans Association, South West NSW.

Lyle is active in his local community, being both founder and President of the local Mens Shed, Anzac Day coordinator, and member of the SES sponsored Community Safety Group, and the Progress Association.

Uranquinty  based

Angelo is a Chartered Accountant and Tax Agent with over 40 years in the Industry.

He was a Partner of the National firm RSM Australia Pty Ltd for 28 years and a Director representing the accounting practice  on  the  RSM Financial Services Company Board for 16 years.

He has also held  the role of NSW Regional Managing Partner. He currently consults with RSM on a part time basis.

He has dealt with a diverse client base advising on accounting ,taxation, succession and business strategy matters.

Angelo serves on both the Pro Patria Centre Ltd and Pro Patria Property Trust boards

Wagga Wagga based.

Lindsay Tanner is a former member of the Royal Australian Air Force and returned serviceman having served in the Gulf War and Somalia, personally aware of the challenges faced by former and current Veterans.

Lindsay is a senior executive with the NSW Government and brings a strong background in risk, governance, and finance to the Pro Patria Board.

Lindsay is also a Wagga Wagga City Councillor, elected to Council in October 2024.

Wagga Wagga based

Jacqui has more than 30 years experience in education, wellbeing, mental health and community engagement in both a professional and volunteer capacity. Through her consultancy, Van de Velde, she has worked in, and continues to work across, a variety of business, education and community contexts, in Australia, New Zealand, the EU, Singapore, and North America. Jacqui is an advocate for parent and family engagement, positive growth outcomes in education, professional learning networks and continuing education in the workplace, wellbeing, veteran health, and advocacy. 

Jacqui is a sought after speaker and trainer in wellbeing and resilience with a specific focus on solution focused techniques. She is the author of a national qualification in Veteran Support Services.

Jacqui is currently on the board of two non-profits: The Australasian Solution Focused Association and Pro Patria Centre Ltd

Sydney based.