26 August 2025
Private Corey Sharp switched his career eight years ago from a boilermaker working in Queensland mines to joining the Army, and ended up as a signaller with 3rd Combat Signal Regiment (3CSR) in Townsville.
While the change provided many benefits, especially with financial security, it also brought personal challenges.
“It’s going OK now, but when I started out, there was some bullying,” Private Sharp said.
This, combined with ankle and shoulder injuries during training, took a toll on Private Sharp’s wellbeing, and without friends or family in Townsville, he sought help from medical staff, who recommended the Arts for Recovery, Resilience, Teamwork and Skills (ARRTS) program.
ARRTS is a four-week live-in program at the University of Canberra that runs twice per year. It involves experienced mentors teaching music, creative writing and visual art techniques to help participants discover new outlets and enhance their wellbeing.
“My commanding officers at 3CSR were totally supportive of me attending, for which I’m very grateful,” Private Sharp said.
Having played the guitar for many years, the music stream was a natural choice for Private Sharp, which provided an environment where he could blend in with the other musicians.
“I’ve never liked the spotlight, so for me it was always going to be about being a band member, and the mentors were fabulously encouraging in letting me stay within my comfort zone,” he said.
'It’s a program I’d recommend to anyone who wants to deal with personal challenges in a supportive environment with people who really do care.'
At the end-of-program showcase concert, which was watched by friends and family online, Private Sharp played guitar on Riders on the Storm and Over the Milky Way.
“Doing this helped me to grow my confidence, and being part of such an amazing team has made me feel a whole lot better than before,” he said.
“Living together with people who’ve faced similar struggles, sharing stories and doing social events has helped to bring me out of my shell and given me new connections that have lasted beyond ARRTS.
“It’s a program I’d recommend to anyone who wants to deal with personal challenges in a supportive environment with people who really do care.”
Looking forward, Private Sharp will be joining the staff of the 4th Health Battalion at Lavarack Barracks in Townsville, as he continues his journey of recovery.
The next ADF ARRTS program will be held in Canberra from October 26 to November 21. The application period is open until September 22.
For more information, visit defence.gov.au/arrts, email adf.arrts@defence.gov.au or call 02 6127 6505 during business hours.
