Symon is a part of Ventia’s SHEQ team in our Energy Networks and Renewables unit. He will be competing in a range of adapted events including swimming, wheelchair curling, indoor rowing, and the biathlon, which is one to watch as it involves a unique mix of skiing and shooting skills!
During his time serving in the New Zealand Defence Force Special Forces (1NZSASGp), Symon severely injured his arm, reducing its mobility and strength. For Symon, this meant a multitude of change in his life, having to step back from Special Forces, and finding any kind of physical activity extremely painful.
Image credit: New Zealand Defence Force
My participation in the Invictus Games is so meaningful because it has helped me on a path to acceptance of my injury, and in a world where I often have to say no to opportunities, the Invictus Games gave me the chance to say ‘yes’.
Image credit: New Zealand Defence Force
Even with this life altering injury, Symon continued to serve in the New Zealand Defence Force for 12 years (including reserves), in the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corp. Symon says one of his many proudest moments in Defence was the opportunity to train new medics following his injury. Symon transitioned from his military career to a corporate role and works in Ventia as a safety specialist, working with teams on the ground to establish safe practices.
Symon’s passion for Veteran wellbeing services goes beyond the Invictus Games, he is also the president of the RSA (The Royal New Zealand Returned and Services Association) in Christchurch. He feels that it is valuable to communicate that these kinds of organisations are for all Veterans, regardless of their circumstances.
My Invictus journey has not been easy. I have been unable to do so much physically for a number of years because everything hurt, to finding the strength to really challenge myself through sport the last 12 months. It’s been an incredible journey so far, and I look forward to it continuing in Vancouver.
Image credit: New Zealand Defence Force
Symon is one of 19 inspirational Veterans who have the honour of representing New Zealand in the 2025 Invictus Games. Australia will be sending 33 Veterans to the Games. While this is an exciting and wonderful opportunity for these competitors, there are so many Veterans whose lives have been changed through sport, who do not compete in the Invictus Games. This is where Invictus Australia’s community purpose steps in to make a real difference in Veterans lives supporting them and their families through sport in their local communities all year-round.
John Rogers, Executive General Manager for Defence, says “Ventia is honoured to partner with an organisation who seeks to support this community every day. The games are a great way to raise awareness of the need to support our Veterans. Ventia and Invictus Australia will be working in the lead up to and long after the games to support Veterans across Australia and New Zealand.”
A huge congratulations and good luck to Symon as he embarks on this lifechanging adventure.