War veteran and Judo black belt Scott Steer launches veterans martial arts on Gold Coast

The gym’s opening was attended by current servicemen and veterans who served in Vietnam, Afghanistan, Iraq, Timor and Somalia

A VETERAN who found solace in martial arts upon returning home from war has opened a studio in Molendinar to help others heal.

Veteran Grappling will offer veterans free classes in Judo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Wrestling and yoga.

Its founder Scott Steer, who served in Afghanistan and Iraq, also brought together a medical team to help its members.

Free martial arts classes have started for veterans to help them beat mental health issues at a new centre called Veteran Grappling. Its founder Scott Steer is picturing throwing Luke Meir. Photo: Richard Gosling

The team includes a yoga instructor who is also a psychologist specialised in trauma.

The gym’s opening today was attended by both current servicement and veterans who served in Vietnam, Iraq, Timor and Somalia.

The explosions and shotguns of the war zone left Mr Steer with injuries all over his body including a fractured spine and face.

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He suffered severe PTSD when he returned to Australia in 2010 and struggling adjusting to civilian life.

“I think the biggest issue had been seeing children being abused,” Mr Steer said.

“I had worked with youth before going overseas.

“When I came back, I was angry.”

Luke Meir on the mat with Veteran Grappling founder Scott Steer (front).

The father tried different sports to help his rehabilitation but it was rekindling his love for martial arts which proved most beneficial.

He has a Judo black belt and started in the discipline as a six-year-old.

Mr Steer met his wife after returning home and the couple are expecting their third child.

The classes offered at Veteran Grappling suit all ages and abilities.

“It’s a place for veteran to heal both mentally and physically,” Mr Steer said.

“It gets them active and socialising, gaining self-confidence and new skills in a fun and save environment.”

The studio, which is community funded, is located at 33 Expansion St, Molendinar.