A community thank you that lasts long after the day
Creating opportunities for first responders and their families to connect is at the heart of everything Katrina (Trina) Bushnell does.
As Fortem Australia’s Activities Officer for North Queensland, based in Townsville, Trina is approaching her first anniversary with Fortem and says the past 12 months have flown by.
From family days and fishing trips to coffee catch-ups and creative workshops, no two weeks are ever the same. But while the activities themselves might be different, Trina says they all share the same purpose.
‘For me, the activities are often just the vehicle – the real goal is connection,’ she says.
‘I want people to feel welcome. Whether someone comes along on their own, brings their family or is simply looking for something to do outside their usual circle, I hope they walk away thinking, ‘That wasn’t so scary… I might come along again!’’
It’s an approach shaped by her own lived experience.
As part of a Defence family, Trina has moved around Australia many times and knows what it’s like to arrive in a new community without knowing anyone.
‘When you move somewhere new, you don’t really have much choice but to put yourself out there, find your people, explore your new community, introduce yourself and work out where you fit,’ she says.
‘I know first-hand that doing that can be exciting, but it can also be daunting, uncomfortable and sometimes downright lonely.’
That understanding now influences every Fortem activity she plans, helping create welcoming spaces where first responders and their families can meet others who understand their world, try something new and build meaningful connections.
Trina’s career has always been centred around community. After studying Community Welfare, she began supporting people with mental health challenges transitioning from institutional care back into the community.
‘It taught me so much about the importance of patience, connection, dignity and simply being there for people,’ she says.
Since then, her career has taken her in many different directions, including roles with Defence support organisations, Legacy, retail, events and even a brief stint in the Army.
‘While the job titles and locations have changed, there has always been one common thread throughout my career and volunteering – community and connection,’ she says.
‘So, in many ways, my role with Fortem feels like a pretty perfect fit, bringing together everything I’ve learned along the way and doing what I’ve always loved: helping people connect, have a laugh and feel like they belong.’
Outside of work, Trina finds wellbeing in life’s simple pleasures, spending time with family and friends, enjoying a great coffee and getting outdoors for a walk.
‘Walking keeps me grounded, gives me time to clear my head and reconnect with nature,’ she says.
But above all, it’s her family who bring her the greatest joy.
‘I love hanging out with my husband, who is without a doubt my biggest supporter and partner in crime, and our four children,’ she says.
‘Watching them grow into their own people has been one of life’s greatest adventures and I really value the time we get together.’
Trina also has a creative side that comes to life every Halloween. Each year, she transforms her home into an elaborate display, spending months designing and building decorations to share with friends, family and the local community.
‘It’s my little way of bringing some joy to our community,’ she says.
Thanks for sharing, Trina – we’re so lucky to have you helping first responders and their families feel connected, supported and welcome across North Queensland.