Finding purpose through a different kind of service: Robin’s story

After 22 years in the Royal Australian Air Force, including deployments to the Middle East and Timor, Robin found himself searching for purpose after leaving military life.

“I wasn’t in a good place mentally. I knew I had to do something,” he shares.

That something turned out to be Happy Paws Happy Hearts (HPHH). In early 2025, Robin joined the Intensive Train Program at Wacol after having taken part in one of HPHH’s other programs for Defence personnel, the Defence Families Program.

Robin shares how the Intensive Train Program goes deeper than he expected. “It’s not just about playing with animals. You take on real responsibility, working with animals at different behavioural stages - especially dogs who aren’t yet ready for adoption. Some have trauma, anxiety or struggle to trust people, but over time you see real change. The ultimate high is seeing them ready for a new home and knowing you helped make that happen”, Robin shared.

Alongside the animal work, Robin has found connection in the community. “Most of the participants are current or ex-Defence, so you’re bonding with people who share that strong sense of purpose. That’s personally why I joined the military, to help others, and now I’m doing that again.”

“I’m out of the house, I’m meeting people, I’m helping animals and people—and I’m having fun”, he said.

One of the most unexpected outcomes for Robin was discovering something meaningful to do with his time which wasn’t work—something he’d been struggling to find since retiring.

“When I left Defence, I had no idea what was next. After taking part in the programs, I realised that volunteering was an option, something I would have never considered.

For me, it’s not about the money—it’s the fulfilment of giving back. That part of me, the one that wants to support and connect with others, is still alive and well.”

While Robin’s time in the Intensive Train Program has concluded, he continues to make an impact on the lives of both animals and people and give back by volunteering each week.

Robin shows true appreciation for where he is on his journey, “I’m meeting new people, enjoying life again, and that’s all thanks to getting involved with HPHH programs”.

We asked Robin if he would like to share a special message of thanks to the organisation responsible for funding this program.

“100% thank you.  After the Defence Families Program, I was trying to save the money to fund myself to be able to join the Intensive Program as I missed the environment, the people and being around the animals.

“I know that there are so many other places that money could go, so the fact it is going not only to veterans but to also support animals in need too, I can’t say thanks enough. I would be stuck at home self-isolating. When my defence chapter ended, I really missed not having an avenue to help others. I was searching for a way to give back. If it wasn’t for joining these programs, I would have never found the avenue to volunteer. Thank you to everyone who supports this program.”

Want to learn more about the Intensive Train Program?
We currently run Intensive Train programs across our Wacol and Dakabin (QLD) and Darwin (NT) locations. If you or someone you know is a current or ex-serving Defence member, first responder or injured worker and would benefit from a purposeful program centred around connection and meaningful work, visit our website to enquire:
👉 hphhfoundation.org/intensive-shelter-program

Or reach out directly on 1300 077 894 or at hello@hphhfoundation.org.