Peer Support

Jason sustained a spinal cord injury whilst jumping up for the ball in a game of Aussie Rules Football. Jason had a young family and used that for inspiration to get through the toughest time in his life. Jason found it hard when he first got home but changed his life around when he coached his football team to a premiership and has never looked back since. Jason went on to play wheelchair sports (powerchair football) and was the President for 9 years, as well as obtaining a Diploma in Community Services. Jason has never stopped living his life any different then he used to before his injury, including going camping, fishing, travelling, playing sport, concerts, spending time with family and friends. Jason now works with PBF and shares his experiences with those on the spinal ward to give them hope and let them know that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

Jane sustained her spinal cordy injury after she fell from a failing balustrade. She remembers how in the months leading up to Christmas that year, she decided to start a new chapter in her life, make big changes, and to be bold. Dealing with a spinal cord injury as a mature woman has many challenges, but Jane shares her experiences to help people to understand that embracing the challenges helps you to be strong again.

Georgia sustained a spinal cord injury at 10 years old and found the early years of adjustment very challenging. Her turning point came when she discovered wheelchair basketball, where meeting others with similar experiences showed her that life could still be full of opportunity, family, sport, and adventure. Since then, Georgia has developed a passion for supporting others with spinal cord injury. She is completing her PhD which has focussed on recovery, sport participation, and wheelchair scripting, and has a growing interest in sharing her pregnancy and postpartum journey. Georgia is committed to educating and inspiring others to live fulfilling lives.

Jake’s life changed in an instant when a playful wrestle with a friend during a 21st birthday river cruise left him with a spinal cord injury, paralysed from the armpits down. Despite this, he has embraced new opportunities and is now a proud National ParaRugby Champion. Jake is passionate about showing others that life after injury can still be rich and rewarding—encouraging people with SCI to get involved in sport, enjoy the outdoors, and believe anything is possible.

One spontaneous decision changed everything for Callum. In September, 2020, he decided to take his dirt bike for a quick ride on the street and collided with a delivery vehicle. The accident left Callum facing challenges he never imagined, but it also became a turning point. From that moment on, he made a vow. To not let the wheelchair define or limit him, Callum chose to use his experience as a source of strength and inspiration. Today, Callum’s greatest achievement is showing others that it is possible to live a fulfilling and meaningful life, no matter the obstacles.

Resilience and perspective shape the way Robert Spencer supports others adjusting to life after spinal cord injury. After sustaining a spinal cord injury while playing rugby at the age of 17, Robert has spent much of his life demonstrating how determination, community and lived experience can guide a positive path forward. He speaks openly about the realities of adapting after injury, while also highlighting the importance of family, friends and support networks. Robert encourages people to recognise that a fulfilling life is still possible, even when circumstances change. Through honesty and authenticity, he offers hope and long-term perspective to those on a similar journey.

With empathy, honesty and a strong belief in the power of resilience, Joanna Fowler supports others as they navigate life after spinal cord injury. Following a life-changing fall, Joanna experienced the uncertainty and challenges that come with rebuilding confidence and independence. Drawing on her lived experience, she provides encouragement, practical perspective and hope to those on a similar journey. Joanna believes resilience is something that develops over time and encourages people to celebrate progress, no matter how small. Through her authentic and positive approach, she inspires others to embrace new possibilities and move forward with confidence.

Known for his calm and practical approach, Lindsay Nott helps people navigate the challenges of adjusting to life after spinal cord injury. After sustaining his injury in a celebratory swimming incident, Lindsay developed a deep understanding of the uncertainty, frustration and questions that often accompany recovery. Drawing on his lived experience, he shares valuable insights into rebuilding independence, maintaining perspective and focusing on what remains possible. Lindsay believes a spinal cord injury does not define a person or limit their future. Through encouragement, patience and authenticity, he inspires others to build resilience, embrace new opportunities and move forward with confidence.