Australian Masters Games - Team RSL
18 - 25 October 2025 - Canberra ACT
Team RSL had an incredible week at the Australian Masters Games
A group of 14 RSL members participated in the Australian Masters Games in Canberra, as Team RSL. Participants competed in Athletics, Archery, Clay Shooting, Dragon Boating, Fencing, Lawn Bowls and Sailing. Team RSL launched into the Australian Masters Games with determination, camaraderie and some outstanding results. From the track and field to the piste, the waterways and the greens, our competitors have showcased grit, skill and true RSL spirit. Go Team RSL!
18 October - Opening day and the Team RSL Welcome Event
The opening day delivered immediate success for Team RSL.
Damian won bronze in the shot put and gold in the javelin in his age group.
On the track, Maria claimed a dominant first place in the 5000m in her age group.
Kerri kicked off her demanding schedule of Dragon Boat racing, giving her all across a full day on the water.
In the afternoon, Team RSL was officially welcomed by RSL National President Peter Tinley at the RSL National Office.
Athletes were then transported to the Australian Masters Games Opening Event to get to know each other before the big week ahead.
19 October - Day 2 of competition
Momentum continued into Day 2.
Ari finished 3rd overall in Sabre fencing and 1st in his age group, closing out his competition in style.
Damian was back in action, competing in the discus. He came fourth overall. He is supported proudly by the Geelong RSL Sub-Branch.
Kerri powered through another day of Dragon Boat racing, showing endurance and grit.
“The ongoing support from RSL and competitors has been fantastic for my return to competition. I have found these games competitive but very friendly, and the camaraderie in the competition tent fabulous. A little tentative entering four events, but this has given me the confidence to continue competing and change my life to a more active one. For other Veterans, it is never too late, irrespective of physical or mental injuries, to get active.”
Damian Hastie - RSL Victoria - Athletics - Former 5th/7th Battalion (Mechanised), Royal Australian Regiment and 9th Battalion, Royal Queensland Regiment.
20 October - Day 3 and the weather doesn’t play ball!
Wild weather tested competitors on Day 3, with high winds cancelling sailing and bringing Dragon Boating to an early stop. Still, Team RSL delivered on every opportunity the day allowed.
In Lawn Bowls, Swinburn & Graham bowled strongly but narrowly missed the finals, while Wayne & Phil won their section and will progress to Wednesday’s finals.
Dan produced an inspiring debut in Recurve Archery, finishing 1st in his category at his very first competition - a major personal victory.
In his final event, Damian claimed silver in the 20lb weight throw, closing out an exceptional Games campaign — especially impressive given he had not competed for 16 years.
21 October - Day 4 – Smooth Sailing on the Lake
With a lighter schedule on Day 4, all focus turned to Sailing.
Darren and Darryl delivered a strong day on Lake Burley Griffin, navigating light and shifty winds that made for tactical racing in the central basin. Sailing in RS Aeros, both competitors excelled in the conditions. After three races, Darryl and Darren are now leading their age groups — an excellent position with nine races still to come.
22 October - Day 5 - Firepower and Fierce Winds
Day 5 brought excitement, pressure and plenty of weather challenges — especially for our Lawn Bowls finalists, who battled the elements with grit and good humour.
On the greens, Wayne and Phil lined up for the Lawn Bowls pairs Final, maintaining the strong form they've shown all week. A heavy downpour delayed play briefly, and fierce winds continued throughout the match. Both players agreed it was the wettest they’ve ever bowled in — but with it being the last day of competition, the show had to go on. Their determination paid off, with the pair proudly claiming the silver medal.
Out at the range, Dan Lucas was back in action, this time in clay target shooting. After 75 shots, Dan placed 6th in an extremely tight finish, a fantastic effort in his first Games, backed proudly by the RSL Wonthaggi Sub-Branch.
Meanwhile, sailing was cancelled due to very strong winds. With more races to make up, tomorrow is shaping up to be a big day on the water.
“Competing in my first Australian Masters Games in Lawn Bowls has truly been an amazing experience. Every match was played in great spirits, filled with camaraderie and friendly competition. It was an honour to represent our RSL team, and winning the silver medal in the pairs event was an unforgettable highlight that made the entire journey even more rewarding.”
Wayne K - RSL Victoria - Lawn Bowls Pairs - Former Navy Petty Officer.
Day 6 - 23 October
Maria won gold in the 8km Cross Country event! She had some furry spectators cheering her on.
Dan was on the range again, this time in Skeet shooting. Dan did very well in his first attempt at skeet shooting. He scored a Bronze medal!
On the water, Darren and Darryl maintained their momentum in the RS Aero class, with impressive performances across the first three races. Their strong results set the stage for an exciting final day tomorrow.
Day 7 - 24 October - Personal bests and sailing victories!
Richard Scott made waves in the pool, swimming in the 25m and 100m freestyle. He won his heats and set personal bests in both events. There was fierce competition with over 120 athletes competing. Richard conquered his own limits and set a new bar for himself. Well done, Richard!
Out on Lake Burley Griffin, Darren and Darryl showcased their sailing skills in light winds. Darryl sailed to gold in his division and age group, while Darren secured his own division win—both thoroughly enjoying their regatta adventure. This was their first Masters Games experience, and they’re already looking forward to the next one!
October 25 - A Memorable Week of Sports Comes to a close
Today, the competitors from out of town returned home and our local champions, Maria, Kerri, and Richard, are flying the flag for Team RSL at the Australian Master Games Closing Ceremony.
What an incredible week of dedication, passion, and unforgettable moments. Until next year!
“A heartfelt thank you to Geoff and the RSL for supporting me and my teammates at the Australian Masters Games this week. Your professionalism, dedication, and support at every event made the experience truly memorable. It was an honour to be part of such an inspiring competition with Team RSL.”
Maria S - RSL ACT - Athletics - Former RAAF CPL.
About RSL Active
This initiative is part of RSL Active, which helps current and former serving ADF members connect through sport and physical activity. It's all about improving wellbeing, building social connections, and sharing a sense of camaraderie with others from the Defence community.
Team RSL Coordinator
Geoff Stokes is leading Team RSL in Canberra. A former RSL Sub-branch President, former rugby representative coach, and the man behind the RSL Remembrance Ride, Geoff brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm.