This week, we’re joined by Bradey. His Army career wasn’t defined by medals or headlines, it was defined by service, sacrifice and resilience.
After enlisting in the Australian Army in 2014, Bradey served with 6RAR as an infantry soldier before transitioning into the Intelligence Support pathway. Sadly, repeated Achilles injuries to both feet brought his military career to an early end, leading to a medical discharge in 2019.
Like so many veterans, the transition out of service was one of the toughest battles he faced. The impact on his mental health became so significant that he deleted almost every photo from his time in uniform because the memories were simply too painful.
But Bradey’s story doesn’t end there. Together with his wife a former Army Reserve MP they’ve created something truly special.
Blank Cheque Trading Co. is more than a distillery and café. It’s become a safe place where veterans and emergency service workers can connect, support one another, and know they’re always welcome.
Each month, 40–50 veterans from Vietnam veterans through to currently serving members, gather around a coffee or a whisky to share stories, check in on one another, and keep the spirit of mateship alive. Their vision is even bigger. They’re working towards transitioning the café into a not-for-profit so they can expand the support, programs and events they provide to the veteran and emergency services community.
One of the most meaningful parts of the café is its military wall, where veterans leave a patch, coin, photo or personal item as a reminder that they’ll always belong—no matter where life takes them. It’s an incredible conversation about finding purpose after service, rebuilding identity, and creating a community where no one has to walk alone.
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YOU'RE NEVER ALONE!
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