Homeless veterans in Victoria will benefit from the generosity of Nowra couple Gillian and John Avery.
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Gillian, a keen quilter, has been making quilts for homeless people since 2007 and has donated more than 3000 since she began.
After seeing a story about Cockatoo Rise, a retreat for war veterans in Bairnsdale, Victoria, Gillian made 12 quilt kits, which include a carry bag and toiletries kit, to help veterans.
Gillian and John visited the retreat to make the donation. John served in the Australian Navy for more than 20 years.
Cockatoo Rise is a 52-acre retreat set up with tents and vans with power and water, a laundry attached to the machinery shed, and plenty of room for others who are independent.
A military museum features memorabilia and is often used as an educational resource for school students.
The facility is owned by Greg and Annie Carter. Greg is a Vietnam Vet (6RAR) and photographer.
Both Greg and Annie said they appreciated the need for veterans to have somewhere to escape and bought the land with that purpose, as well as making it their own home. It also hosts three retired horses, Annie's passion.
There's a non-profitable protea farm on the property, as well as a golf course. While it's not a caravan park, Greg said it groups of veterans wanted to visit, it could be arranged. Due to the horses, the property is a dog-free zone.
There is no charge but donations towards maintaining the property are appreciated. See more at cockatooriseretreat.com.au
