Lifting the bar on wellbeing

Building muscle 

Stephens RSL Sub Branch member David Forth served in the military for eight years before launching his career as a crane and rigging specialist, eventually settling on the Gold Coast as a FIFO worker. While his time in the Army set him up well for civilian life, David noticed a few years ago that he needed something extra to fulfil him. 

“I’m an avid reader of magazines and articles, and am particularly interested in health, wellbeing and drug-free rehabilitation,” David explains.  

David (center, back row) during his time in the Army. He served for eight years.

“I knew through reading that I needed to change my lifestyle, and I tried working out at a commercial gym, but found my motivation there was limited. 

“Everything changed when I joined a Mates4Mates paddleboarding day at Hinze Dam. I met strongwoman and Army nurse veteran Red Windle and started chatting to her about her journey. She recommended I reach out to Panthers Gym at Coorparoo.” 

David followed Red’s advice and has been training at Brisbane’s Panthers Powerlifting under the guidance of coach Merinda O’Brien since January 2022, crediting her support for his steady build-up of confidence and athleticism. Over the past few years, he has been blown away by the results. 

“Powerlifting and strongman events are addictive; you can see why by watching videos of the sport on social media” David says.  

“I’m stronger now at 45 than I was at 25, and I can bench-press more than when I was in the Army. 

“I love the challenges of the sport, as it gives me great focus but also lots of failures to learn from and build upon along the way. I thrive off climbing the mental and physical mountain to hit new personal bests.” 

Community and competition 

Along with hard work, perseverance and grit, David attributes his athletic success to a tight-knit community of drug-free strongmen and strongwomen who train and compete alongside him.  

“Strength sports may not look like a team sport, but it’s like a family,” David says. 

“You meet some wild characters, but there are so many dedicated people who support you. I have met some inspirational and life-changing role models and made new best friends. 

David competing (photo by Tony Farrell)

“I truly believe that these social benefits – as well as psychological and physical benefits – have saved many people’s lives.”  

Propelled by the Panthers family’s unwavering support, David has grown from novice to elite. In August, he represented Australia at the Natural Strongman World Championship in Ireland, competing alongside 150 other athletes from 19 countries.  

David was especially honoured to join ranks with fellow Australian veterans Conor Reilly, an Army medic currently serving at the Joint Health Command Squadron in Toowoomba, and Luke Keiger, an Army driver serving at the Combat Training Centre in Townsville. 

“I felt privileged at the chance to compete,” David says.  

“To represent Australia in the master’s division filled my cup, and going up against bigger gyms and more experienced strongmen was a massive thrill. 

“The rush on stage is amazing because you cheer as much for your opponents as you do your teammates. I felt the strong bonds that draw athletes together, and I can’t wait to experience it again.” 

Image by Tony Farrell - The Australian team, from left, Tanita Northcott (SA), Kim Prince (3rd master’s division) (Qld), Camilla Fogagnolo (winner of the U64 and U73 divisions) (SA), Megan Clarke (winner U82 division) (WA), Matthew Rooney (Qld), Luke Keiger (Qld), David Forth (Qld), Conor Reilly (Qld) and, front and centre at the bottom, Robert Marlow (NSW).

The Australian athletes were very successful in Ireland. David placed 10th in the master’s division, Conor placed 13th in the under 105kg class, and Luke won the log ladder event and placed 7th in the under 90kg class. Conor was also commended for offering medical assistance to injured athletes during the competition. 

“A big pat on the back to the nine Aussies who competed, especially Luke and Conor for representing the Australian veteran community,” David says. 

Fuelling the fire 

Following his success in competition, David is looking forward to his future with the Panthers and hopes to play a part in developing the sport for more veterans and civilians to enjoy. 

“Competing in Ireland confirmed that I want to make a career of this – to represent Australia more and show other veterans that they can do this too,” he says.  

“While I won’t be a rich man for it, I’ll be having a lot of fun. 

“I’d love to see strongman, powerlifting and strength sports recognised as professional and pushed as much as other dominant sports, especially in the ADF – maybe even included in the Invictus Games to unite all services, showcase its positivity and put on a great show.” 

David competing (photo by Tony Farrell)

For service personnel and veterans who might be curious about powerlifting and strongman sports, David has some advice. 

“Our gym’s motto is ‘We rise by lifting others’ and ‘Where community builds strength’,” David reflects.  

“Through these mantras, I have grown so much, learned so much, seen so much, and felt so much. 

“So, give it a go! I hear too many people say, ‘I’m too broken’ or, ‘There’s no way I can do that’ – but don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.  

“As my coach would say, ‘Grab the bar, lift and push the floor away’!” 

Learn more 

Staying active can help veterans and their families feel happier and more connected. RSL Queensland offers a diverse calendar of recreational events through Rec Connect or email David via davidforth@y7mail.com if you want to chat about strength sports.