Who we are
and what we're all about
History and Evolution of TJF
TJF was born in 2019, after Cleve was medically retired from a job he once lived and breathed. Like so many who leave under tough circumstances, he was hit with a deep sense of loss — no longer able to serve, struggling with PTSD, anxiety, depression, and the personal toll that comes with it all. In that darkness, he began writing — not for anyone else, but to survive. That writing became the Tango Juliet Foxtrot blog.
For those in the emergency services community, TJF has long stood for The Job ’s F*cked — a phrase that hits hard because it’s true. It speaks to the frustration, burnout, and moral injury many carry. But over time, that raw honesty evolved into something more. Officially, TJF now stands for The Journey Forward. We don’t deny where it started — in fact, we honour it. Sometimes, recognising how messed up it feels is the first real step toward healing. Accepting those emotions is what makes progress possible.
As Cleve’s blog gained traction, he began hearing from others who were feeling the same — current and former emergency service workers, veterans, and frontline mates struggling in silence. What began as one man's outlet turned into a movement: a way to start real conversations, check in on each other, and promote early intervention. Because sometimes a message or a call can literally save a life.
In 2023, Cleve and his good mate Dave — also medically retired after psychological injury — took things further. Over a beer, they decided to build something practical: a way for people to reconnect with life, identity, and community. That’s when The Journey Forward officially launched, starting with a humble peer support catch-up in the back room of a café in Carrum.
Since then, TJF has grown organically into a powerful community. We’ve hosted everything from moral injury discussions to dragon boat races, ice bath breathwork, BBQs at stations, and visits from assistance dogs. It’s not about fixing anyone — it’s about reminding each other we’re not alone, and that life after the job can still have meaning.
TJF is more than a name. It’s a story — and wherever you are on that journey, you’re welcome here.
Because those who know, just know.
Where we are headed
TJF – The Journey Forward Limited – is a registered charity built by and for those who’ve served. Whether you're a Cop, PSO, PCO, Paramedic, Firefighter, Frontline worker, or one of the many who support them — in uniform or out — we see you. We’ve lived it too.
Our mission is simple: to make life better for those who’ve carried the load for others. We’re not here to preach or patch you up — we’re here to walk beside you, offer a steady hand, and remind you that you’re not alone.
It starts with peer connection. Through honest conversations, shared stories, and real camaraderie, we offer a safe space where the masks can drop. Our Peer Discussions and Activities help cut through the isolation and reconnect you with people who just get it.
For those needing extra support, we offer one-on-one Peer Support and Counselling — confidential sessions focused on helping you process the emotional weight of the job and navigate your personal path forward.
We also stand shoulder to shoulder with those going through WorkCover claims, return-to-work challenges, or the often-confusing process of ill-health retirement. It's a tough system to face alone — so don’t.
But we’re not stopping there. We’re pushing for systemic change. As advocates, we speak up for those who can’t, working to improve the structures meant to support our people. Because it’s not just about healing individuals — it’s about fixing what’s broken in the system too.
TJF is more than a charity — it’s a growing movement. A community of people from all walks of service who’ve had enough of suffering in silence. Together, we’re finding a new way forward.
Because those who know, just know. And we look after our own.
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