Introducing Matt Lamberth, Fortem Ambassador
The Fortem Wellbeing Hub came alive in December as emergency service workers gathered for two dedicated wellbeing events, a women’s and a men’s wellness day, focused on rest, recovery, connection and shared experience.
Our first women’s wellness event celebrated emergency service women with a nurturing, restorative program designed to support both body and mind. Participants were welcomed with a delicious brunch before enjoying a range of Mind Body Lounge services including cryotherapy, infrared sauna, brain tapping, massage chairs and compression boots. A face mask bar and creative craft activities encouraged relaxation, while gift bags and a raffle hamper filled with generously donated items from local businesses, added to the day’s warmth and generosity.
The theme of the day centred on rest and connection, with one of the most powerful outcomes being the conversations that unfolded between women who had never met before, yet shared deeply similar experiences. Many participants left feeling inspired to give back, offering their own skills to support future Fortem social connection activities.
Feedback reflected the impact of the day:
‘This was a fantastic day. Loved the activities, trying new health practices, the food was great and everyone was so positive and friendly.’
‘I felt nourished, relaxed and recharged. It was so nice to be the ones supported for a change.’
Another participant highlighted the importance of family-inclusive support:
‘It’s great that the Hub supports workers and their families too. Children can also be affected by long, stressful shifts and what they see in the media. This was a wonderful recharge before a busy time of year.’
Later in the month, the Hub hosted a fantastic men’s wellness event, bringing together first responders from multiple agencies for a day centred on connection, openness and mutual support. The event created a safe space for honest conversation, laughter and shared understanding, with participants openly acknowledging each other’s personal journeys.
New friendships formed quickly, with many swapping numbers and organising future coffee catch-ups. The strength of these connections has already led to Fortem being invited to attend multiple agency engagements from January 2026.
Participants described the experience as both meaningful and necessary:
‘A fantastic initiative by Fortem. I felt genuine connection with other first responders and believe this activity supported people who were currently struggling.’
‘Men supporting each other in a safe space – this needs to be a regular occurrence.’
Together, the women’s and men’s wellness days highlighted the importance of dedicated spaces where first responders can pause, connect and prioritise their wellbeing. As Fortem looks ahead to 2026, the success of these events reinforces the vital role of the Wellbeing Hub in supporting current and former emergency services workers and the families who stand beside them.
