Scott Reynolds

Scott Reynolds’ story is one of resilience, leadership, and a deep commitment to helping others. Through Saltwater Veterans, he has transformed his personal struggles into a powerful force for good, creating a community where veterans can find support, connection, and purpose.

Military background and education

Scott’s naval career began with his education at the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) from 1998-2000, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in both oceanography and computer science, with a sub-major in physics. His time in the Navy saw him serve on several warships, including operational deployments to Iraq 2003 and on border protection missions. Scott also became a qualified Mine Warfare and Clearance Diving Officer, with postings on mine hunters and at a clearance diving team, as well as instructional roles.

Transition to civilian career

Despite his accomplishments, Scott’s military career took a toll on his mental and physical health, leading to a medical discharge in 2016. Reflecting on that difficult time, Scott shared, “I was suffering from significant mental health and physical injuries and experienced the darkest depths of depression. Thankfully, with the support of my family, I realized that I needed to do something to pull myself out of that very dark hole, and that’s when I was introduced to sailing—it has contributed to saving my life.”

Scott’s introduction to sailing through Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club quickly evolved into a passion. He began participating in sail racing twice a week and volunteered his time to encourage other veterans to discover the therapeutic benefits of sailing. This passion led to his co-founding of Saltwater Veterans in 2018, with the Saltwater Veterans Sailing Project now an ACNC registered charity, a social network of military veterans and their families who use sailing to stay physically and mentally active.

“Saltwater Veterans Sailing Project is about building a community, and it’s not as simple as having a ride on a sailing boat,” Scott explained. “It’s about reducing social isolation. The advocacy and support networks on the sailing boats are incredible. As you sail, you talk and share experiences. The sharing of knowledge and peer guidance supports our veterans with asking for help and navigating the support networks that exist.”

Advice to student veterans

Scott’s journey to recovery was deeply supported by his family, particularly his wife, Jen. “Jen has been my greatest supporter and has been by my side throughout my recovery. She has also been integral to the success of Saltwater Veterans. None of what we’ve achieved could have been done without the incredible support and tireless work of my wife,” Scott said.

Encouraging others to seek help, Scott emphasized, “That first step—asking for help—is often the hardest, but once you’ve done that, it can really set you down the path of recovery. I urge veterans who are struggling to ask for help, especially from family.”

Personal reflection

Scott believes that the ongoing social connections fostered through the Saltwater Veterans Sailing Project are key to its success.

“Saltwater Veterans works because of the social connections. It is like-minded people with different backgrounds coming together. Our military service is the common thread that connects us, but the most important thing is being around people who have come from different places and experienced different things. Saltwater Veterans Sailing Project brings together good people who are doing good things.”

For more information on how you can participate, sponsor, or donate to the Saltwater Veterans Sailing Project, visit Saltwater Veterans, opens in a new window.