MATES OF WARFRETS
WARFRETS Staff
At Warfrets, our mission is powered by a dedicated team that bridges the worlds of military service, skilled craftsmanship, and community support. As a 100% veteran-owned and operated charity, our collective strength comes from the shared lived experiences of those who have worn the uniform—bringing over 75 years of combined service across the Australian Army and Air Force.
Beyond our direct work crafting instruments and driving musical rehabilitation, our commitment doesn’t stop at the workshop door. As a collective, we maintain a continuous, active thread of support for other veteran charities, community organisations, and defence families. Whether it’s guiding veterans through civilian transition, advocating alongside organisations like RSL Victoria, or showing up as caregivers and active participants in the veteran support network, our team is deeply embedded in the community.
We’ve served our country; now, we’re here to serve our community—building connections, supporting families, and helping fellow veterans.
Jimmy (Luthier): Served 11 years in the Australian Army before a medical discharge. After rehabilitation, he trained as a luthier, combining his military background and crafting skills to support fellow veterans through music therapy.
David (Project Management): Served 15 years in Australian Army member also medically discharged now with an MBA, who transitioned into social work and business leadership. He brings clinical insight, project management, and business expertise to the Warfrets board.
Scotty (Luthier): Served a 25-year career in the Australian Air Force. An expert in various guitars ranging from bass to acoustics, he now focuses on family life, future course development, and hand-building guitars for the charity.
Carolyn (Secretary, Finances, and Event Planner): Has a professional background in banking and a lifelong connection to the defence community (including experience as a caregiver, Legacy, and DVA). She manages Warfrets’ finances, events, fundraising, and public relations.
David (Luthier): An expert luthier specializing in precision guitar inlays and guitar theory, bringing strong technical skills and a passion for honoring and supporting veterans.
Matthew (Overseer and Board Member): Served 25 years in the Australian Army. After transitioning, he has dedicated himself to helping veterans navigate the path back into civilian life through RSL Victoria and charities like Warfrets.
A Community-Driven Effort
Our commitment to the veteran community extends far beyond our core team. For our projects—whether it’s specialized electrical work, intricate painting, or crafting custom slings—we make it a priority to collaborate with other veterans and veteran families whenever possible. Keeping this work within the defence community is at the heart of what we do. I would personally like to extend my greatest thanks to everyone who lends their hands and talents to help us bring these projects to life.
MATES OF WARFRETS
Mates
WARFRETS would like to sincerely thank the following individuals and organisations for their generous contributions and support towards our mission of helping veterans.
Your support plays a vital role in improving the lives of those who have served our country, and we deeply appreciate every donation, act of service, and word of encouragement.
Thank you for standing with us, Please support these businesses that supported us.