Savannaha Wells – Partner Employee of the Year

Savannaha Wells is the Shoalhaven Veteran and Family Hub Manager. Savannaha has been recognised for her dedication and commitment to the vetaran community at this year’s Prime Minister’s National Veteran Employment Awards, being awarded Partner Employee of the Year.

Chief Veteran Services Officer, David Anderson, stated: ”Savannaha’s dedication and hard work have significantly enhanced the services we provide at the Shoalhaven Veteran and Family Hub. Her efforts have truly made a difference.”  

We are incredibly proud of Savannaha, and grateful for her care and dedication to the veteran community.  Through her lived experience, she’s able to connect with veterans and provide meaningful support and care.

Savannaha shared her feelings about receiving this acknowledgement.

What the award means  

For Savannaha, the recognition is deeply personal. As a defence partner, her career journey has been anything but straightforward.  

“When my husband Linden was posted to Western Australia, I had to stop my paramedic studies. Balancing full-time work and full-time uni became impossible, especially when he deployed for 15 months just after we moved. I was in a new state, no friends, no family, and trying to find work. Then COVID hit.”  

“I have that lived experience. It makes it easier to build rapport and break down barriers. Veterans and families can see I understand what they’re going through.”  

The team that makes it possible  

Savannaha is quick to credit her team at the Shoalhaven Veteran and Family Hub. “Jaye and Mali are incredible. Both defence partners themselves, both deeply committed to this work. They understand the lifestyle, they know the challenges, and nothing will stop them from delivering the best for veterans and families.  

They’re people-people. They go above and beyond to make sure every experience exceeds expectations. We’re seamless, we trust each other, we share the same goal, and we get things done. That’s what makes this Hub special.”  

She also notes that the Hub is a community. “Our hub isn’t just RSL LifeCare – it’s Open Arms, Invictus, and other ex-service organisations. We’re one network, one community, all driven to help veterans and their families.”  

Her proudest achievement  

When asked what she’s most proud of since joining RSL LifeCare, Savannaha doesn’t hesitate: securing a ClubGRANT to run a camping trip.  

“I was obsessed with running a camping trip, and we made it happen. We applied for a grant, built strong local connections, and pulled together an incredible weekend. We had Tharwa Valley Forge facilitate blacksmithing, Shoalhaven 4WD Club running off-road adventures, and plenty of time by the river.  

It wasn’t just about camping. It was about creating a space for veterans and partners to connect, learn new skills, and feel part of the community. Seeing it all come together was amazing.”  

Looking ahead  

Savannaha’s vision for the Shoalhaven Veteran and Family Hub is ambitious and community driven.  

“We’re working on expanding our connection to the wider community beyond the ex-service organisation space. Defence life doesn’t last forever, so we want to make sure veterans and families feel supported as they transition into civilian life.”  

Key priorities for 2026 include:  

• New services: “We’re in discussions to bring an allied health provider into the Hub next year. This will strengthen our ability to deliver holistic wellbeing support under one roof.”  

• Community integration: “We want to deepen partnerships with local businesses and organisations to create more opportunities for veterans and partners – whether that’s employment, volunteering, or social connection.”  

• More events, more impact: “We’re planning to build on the success of our camping and forging weekend with more outdoor and cultural experiences. These events aren’t just fun – they help people feel connected and supported.”  

• Veteran voices at the centre: “Everything we do will continue to be shaped by veterans and families themselves. Their feedback drives our programs, and we’ll keep listening to make sure we’re meeting real needs.”  

Savannaha sums it up simply: 
“It’s about growth, but it’s also about doing what we do well: delivering key support that make a genuine difference.”  

A final thought  

When asked what the wider community can do to support veterans and their families, Savannaha is clear: 
 
“Education is key. Defence life isn’t what it used to be. Employers shouldn’t put Defence partners in the ‘too hard’ basket as a result of not understanding the lifestyle. Some might post in two years, but others will make a home and remain in the community. Defence partners are nothing short of resilient and some of the hardest working people in our communities. RSL LifeCare employs plenty of Defence partners who bring incredible skills and professionalism to the organisation. It should be about the quality of work, not how long you think you may retain them” .

To connect with the team at the Shoalhaven Veteran and Family Hub, click here.