The annual Ipswich Show is one of Southeast Queensland’s most cherished community events - bringing together families, farmers, businesses, and organisations to celebrate everything that makes Ipswich life so special. From May 17th to 19th, the Ipswich Showgrounds were once again buzzing with excitement, and this year, Wounded Heroes Australia was proud to be part of it.
Our mission - to provide urgent financial support to current and past ADF personnel and their families in crisis - came to life through community interaction, awareness, and of course, our Coffee4Heroes coffee bags, sold at our stall to raise funds and start conversations.
Why We Were There
Wounded Heroes Australia is a community-funded organisation with a national reach. But it’s events like the Ipswich Show that remind us of the importance of grassroots connection.
Being at the show gave us the opportunity to:
- Educate the public on veteran and Defence family support
- Engage with veterans and families in the community
- Fundraise through merchandise and coffee sales
- Inspire a new wave of local support and awareness
Most importantly, it gave us a chance to listen to the stories, struggles, and triumphs of those with military backgrounds who live among us, often quietly and without recognition.
Coffee4Heroes Coffee
One of the highlights of our presence at the show this year was the sale of Coffee4Heroes -our specially branded coffee bags, created as both a fundraising initiative and a tribute to service.
These aren’t just any coffee beans. Coffee4Heroes represents more than just a caffeine kick; every bag purchased directly supports veterans and families in immediate crisis situations - those facing homelessness, mental health challenges, or financial hardship with nowhere else to turn.
Over the three-day event, dozens of showgoers stopped by our stall to grab a bag (or two!) of Coffee4Heroes to take home. Some were attracted by the bold packaging, some by the rich aroma - but all were moved by the purpose behind the product.
The support we received was overwhelming, with many returning later in the day to grab more bags to give to family and friends. Several visitors told us they’d be switching to Coffee4Heroes permanently, not just because it tastes great, but because it does good.
The Stall: Where Conversations Brewed
Our stall at the show wasn’t just a point of sale - it was a hub of connection. Decorated with banners, service photos, and information about our mission, the space drew in veterans, Defence families, and supporters alike.
We had heartfelt conversations with people from all walks of life - some who had served, others who were currently serving, and many who just wanted to help. With every coffee bag sold, we shared our story, explained where the funds go, and reminded people that the battle doesn’t always end when the uniform comes off.
For those who weren’t familiar with Wounded Heroes Australia, the show was a perfect entry point. We offered brochures, sign-up sheets for volunteers, and flyers showing how Coffee4Heroes supports frontline help - paying for emergency accommodation, food, transport, mental health support and more.
Highlights from the Weekend
💬 Veteran Voices
We had several local veterans stop by - some who had received help in the past, others simply expressing gratitude for the work we do. Their stories reinforced why we continue to push forward, no matter how tough things get.
☕ Coffee with a Cause
The coffee bags were a hit! Many were surprised to learn they could enjoy their morning brew while supporting veterans in crisis. Some bought a few to share with mates or gift to loved ones.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Engagement
Kids loved the military displays, and we handed out stickers and wristbands to little visitors. Parents appreciated the chance to talk about service and sacrifice with their children in a meaningful and accessible way.
Why Coffee Matters
Selling coffee bags might seem simple - but for us, it’s strategic. Coffee brings people together. It creates a moment to pause, to talk, and to connect. And when every bag funds something as vital as emergency accommodation or immediate financial help, it becomes a powerful tool for change.
Coffee4Heroes is more than a product. It’s a conversation starter, a fundraiser, and a tribute. With each bag sold, we honour the courage of our wounded heroes - and remind the community that help is only ever one action away.
Thank You, Ipswich
To the organisers of the Ipswich Show - thank you for creating a space where community and causes can connect. To the visitors who stopped by - thank you for sharing, supporting, and standing with our Defence families. And to our incredible volunteers - thank you for making it all happen, one conversation and coffee bag at a time.
How You Can Help After the Show
Missed us at the Ipswich Show? No worries - there’s still plenty you can do:
- Buy Coffee4Heroes online and have it shipped straight to your door.
- Donate to support veterans in urgent need.
- Volunteer to help at events or behind the scenes.
- Spread the Word - talk about veteran support, share our mission, and encourage others to get involved.
You can find everything at www.woundedheroes.org.au or follow us on social media to stay updated.
From the showgrounds to your home - thank you for supporting our heroes, one coffee bag at a time.
- The Wounded Heroes Australia Team
