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Abstract
The emergence of pilgrimage tourism across the Kokoda Trail has brought some unlikely bedfellows together.
Two of these, Chris Dyer, founder of the Zero 79 Foundation, and Wayne Wetherall, founder of Kokoda Spirit have carved a beneficial niche for themselves from it.
They were not drawn to ‘Kokkda’ as a result of any previous military service because neither one had ever served.
Nor were they drawn by its military heritage because there is no record of any prior involvement with the veteran community by either one.
It seems they were drawn to it because of the opportunity it presented to create an identity for themselves and make a dollar at the same time.
Before then Wetherall was an air-conditioning salesman in Sydney and Dyer was a fireman from Melbourne.
Kokoda Spirit: Let the Buyer Beware!
Wetherall built his Kokoda trekking business on a series of false claims and slick sales-marketing skills which have been exposed on the following link:
Chris Dyer – Cams Cause
Chris Dyer’s involvement began with a well-intentioned tribute to a childhood mate, Corporal Cameron Baird who was posthumously awarded a Victoria Cross for his actions in Afghanistan.
He established a charity, ‘Cam’s Cause’ to raise funds by organizing groups to trek across the Kokoda Trail.
He seemed to use the same marketing techniques as Wayne Wetherall by creating the perception that Cams Cause was linked to the Commando Welfare Trust even though it was registered as a separate charity.
When he saw an opportunity for using treks across the Kokoda Trail as a fundraising vehicle for Cams Cause – he chose Wetherall’s company, Kokoda Spirit, which had emerged as a leading Kokoda trekking operator.
Queensland Industrial Relations Commission: Wetherall Vs Mrs Kelly
Wetherall’s bubble burst when his long-term female manager lodged an appeal in the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission (QIRC), after she found she had been shortchanged on her entitlements. During the course of the four-day hearing the sordid nature of his character was exposed when it was revealed he had:
• bullied and harassed his female staff;
• stalked vulnerable female trekkers;
• coerced one into having group sex with his mates;
• traded sexual favours with his female staffer in Port Moresby;
• fathered an illegitimate child in PNG;
• engaged in group sex with other men; and
• exploited his PNG guides and porters.
It’s probable that corporal Baird’s parents, Doug and Kaye Baird, probably realised the reputational damage Cams Cause would suffer through any further association with Wetherall’s company, Kokoda Spirit.
Zero 79 Foundation
Rather than cut ties with his mate, Chris Dyer announced Cam’s Cause was embarking on a new journey with the establishment of a Zero 79 Foundations after ‘the successful fulfillment of its mission ‘to support the commando and veteran community in honour of Corporal Cameron Baird, VC MG’ on 14 September 2023.
In response to a FB query as to why he was no longer associated with Cams Cause on 14 March 2024 he adbised:
‘The name was changed as we were legally directed that we were not able to use the name ‘Cameron Baird VC, MG as of the 31st of October, 2023’. Therefore, it made no sense to keep the name ‘Cam’s Cause’, so we became the Zero79 Foundation. We now honour all fallen commandos with our work serving the commando community.’
He then used the Wetherall technique of making a bogus claim to justify the establishment of a Zero 79 Foundation which ‘holds the distinct honour of being the sole registered charity in the country dedicated exclusively to providing support for current and former serving Commandos and their families.’
A noble thought indeed – but bogus nevertheless!
The Commando Welfare Trust was established for this specific purpose 13 years earlier, and had already raised $5 million to meet their objective of ‘providing ‘Special Operations Command soldiers, veterans and family members with instant access to emergency funding and long-term financial support where the system cannot.’
The Commando Welfare Trust Board of Trustees includes a Major-General, three Brigadiers, a professional tax advisor and a selection of successful professionals in various fields – their Patron is the Hon Joel Fitzgibbon.
On the other hand the Zero 79 Foundation team seems to be more of a family affair which includes Chris Dyer, Rebecca Dyer, Justin Dyer and Cara Dyer and a couple of former veterans – there are no links to their profiles on their website.
Comments on the Zero Foundation website relating to the change indicated that some of his past supporters smelt a rat:
Due South
‘Interesting way for supporting organisations to find out’
Naughtious Maximus
‘Was Cams Cause not about raising awareness and money for all fallen commandos and their families? I never thought it was just about Cam. He literally gave everything for them. That is who he was. He loved his brothers and their families like they were his own.
‘To say I’m saddened his name is being removed is an understatement.’
Dee Ewor
‘Why remove Cameron’s name and identity? He encompasses the heart, spirit and soul of what Cams Cause is.‘Poor judgement call. In fact, its bloody shameful!!!’
Glenn Marskell
‘The utmost Respect to Founder an Father of the late VC MG Cpl Cameron Baird Doug Baird an The Team Have Done an Achieved So Much over The Time second to Nune !! This Is very concerning as the Old Saying Goes “If it Broke Don’t Change It ” seam a Roge Element has Disire for Change ! This Make Zero Sence and Is Extremely Concerning , Good Luck ,’
Craig Blanch
‘Sorry to hear that politics has begun to steer the ship, mate. But Cam will continue to serve and inspire generations come.’
Dean Parkinson
‘Yeah, I’m not sure about this. Unsure as to why the name needs to change?‘We already have the Commando Welfare Trust… are these two organisations in direct competition with each other?
‘Hoping that the Baird family has been properly consulted about all aspects.‘Also… if it’s a name change then not sure if the organisation should be using Cams name and image moving forward.. my two cents.’
Glenn Marskell
‘The utmost Respect to Founder an Father of the late VC MG Cpl Cameron Baird Doug Baird an The Team Have Done an Achieved So Much over The Time second to Nune !! This Is very concerning as the Old Saying Goes “If it Broke Don’t Change It ” seam a Roge Element has Disire for Change ! This Make Zero Sence and Is Extremely Concerning , Good Luck ,’
Baird Family Statement re Cams Cause
A week after Chris Dyer announced his Zero 79 Foundation, on 21 September 2023, Cameron Baird’s father Doug Baird, published the following statement:
| ‘Dear family, friends and supporters of Cam’s Cause, ‘The first thing we would like to do is thank you for the support you have given Cam’s Cause and for the role you have played in honouring the memory of our son and brother. ‘You may have recognised from a recent social media post by the charity that they are embarking on a new journey that is no longer associated with Cameron or our family. ‘Over the past nine years, inspired by Cameron’s motto of ‘aspire to inspire’, we have, with your support, played a significant role in helping the 2nd Commando Regiment brothers and sisters who Cameron gave his life for; sparking important conversations about the service and sacrifice of Australia’s military veterans, serving members and first responders; and inspiring the thousands of school students and young Australians who have heard Cameron’s message of finding their passion through study, music, sport, or whatever path they choose, committing to always trying their best, and enjoying life. ‘Preserving this as Cameron’s legacy has been our passion and it will remain so for as long as we live. ‘Organisations will change over time, but the memory of Cameron, of what he stood for and what he wanted to achieve will not. ‘After careful consideration of some changes and decisions within the charity this year, we feel that our values and Cameron’s values, and the organisation’s values are no longer aligned and, sadly, a little over two weeks ago we made the difficult decision to withdraw from Cam’s Cause. ‘ We will look for other avenues to honour Cameron’s memory and legacy in ways that we, as a family, and those who knew him best feel are in keeping with the ideals he expressed to us over a much-cherished lifetime. We will keep in touch with any developments as they arise, and until then, we again thank everyone who has been part of our Cam’s Cause journey. Your dedication, energy, kindness and compassion are the reasons we have achieved so much in Cameron’s name, and you will always have a special place in our thoughts and our hearts. Doug and Kaye Baird and family |
The response to the Baird’s family statement confirmend many had indeed smelt a rat:
Cameron Wood
In a world where people are doing their best to use smoke, mirrors and lies to make personal benefit of the word “Veteran” you are doing Cams legacy so proud by owning the decision and providing people with full clarity on the matter. Much love and respect to you and Kaye and may Cams name and legacy live on however you choose for that to be, you have our supportLest We Forget
Response from Doug Baird:
Cameron Wood No amount of misinformation put out will change our thoughts, our work is not complete. !!
Anita Hogan
Sorry to hear that your family’s wishes, were no longer respected and you decided to leave Cam’s Cause. It shows courage to do that and realise that better things will come out of this, ones you will have autonomy over. Very proud of you Doug (and family) That is where Cameron got his bravery from. You. Always at your family’s service
Daniel Burrowes
Sorry to hear Dougy It’s a real sick world we now live in Run by f****** clowns Keep strong and keep in touch legend Paul Grimley I don’t know what has happened but it must have been something pretty big to lead you to leave Cams Cause. Obviously a lot of thought will have been given to your decision and l am sure that it has not been taken lightly. Wherever you go from here, your integrity and drive will shine through. Charities are a minefield and their direction often changes to suit current managers perceptions, and often these changes are disagreeable to others involved in running them.
Vanessa St-Ha
In the last 11 months, 3 out of the 4 original founding members have left Cams Cause. There are multiple and varied reasons. When this charity was started in memory of Cameron, it was set up with your family’s blessing and operated under the way in which Cameron presented and lived his life. He stood for all, gave rather than took and was extremely humble. Recent changes that have taken place in the Cams Cause team, have gone against how Cam lived his life. Cam was inclusive, respectful, supportive, protective, generous and did not tolerate bullying. The focus of Cam’s Cause has narrowed to supporting only 079 Commandos rather than all members of 2nd Commando Regiment. Funds raised in the memory of your son, should be redirected as per the Baird family’s wishes and not used to rebrand the charity. They should start from scratch, like Cams Cause was. In the first 9 years, the charity experienced growth and success in the memory of Cameron. In last 11 months this charity has lost its way. Know you always have our support xxx
Mike Wells
Why does power go to the head of those least deserving. Doug and Kaye have selflessly devoted their lives to Honouring their Son Cameron, who gave his life supporting his Soldiers/Mates. They will always have my unquestioned support in everything they do. I will comment no further.
Ron Davis
Just over 5 years ago I made my first donation to the Cams Cause Team, it touched my heart when I learned about Cameron, what he stood for, just inspired me to continually help.. and over the years many of the team have become close loyal friends. I noticed a changed last October at the Charity event and how I was treated with disrespect by a certain member. But the night became a success with much needed funds being raised.. Its sad to see what has happened, I will always support you Doug, and your family and the new chapter that you take to keep honouring Cameron’s mission..
Rick Green
A sad day Doug, As a founding member of Cams Cause and personal friend of Cameron we set out to honour his legacy. Ever since you have stepped down as president, founding members have been pushed out – many things have changed and not for the better. Respect, honesty and common decency isn’t so common these days.
Alice Harrison
Thank you for providing the use of your son’s name and image for the last 10 years and the awareness you have raised for Commando welfare. I do wonder though … what lead you to the point of removing permission?What direction is the charity now going in and the issues surrounding what happens with the funds raised in Cameron’s memory? A huge brave move to retract Cameron’s name and image and one that you felt you really must do.
Rachel Cooper
Doug you have raised an extraordinary Australian and one of Our Countries bravest The Baird value systems is exemplified in Cam’s legacy as an authentic human with an unwavering moral compass. It will always remain a privilege to have stood along side Yourself, Kaye and the Cam’s Cause team to honor Cameron and generate change through education and assistance. A lot of great memories and opportunities over almost a decade of commitment. Stepping away from my own role within Cam’s Cause earlier this year was an incredibly heavy decision but as you’ve so gracefully illustrated ; when integrity, accountability and respect are no longer being served – it’s time to leave the table. The charitable vehicle that remains today absolutely dose not align with the purpose in which it was created, and the honorable path would have been to farewell Cam’s Cause in the spirit it was born. The remaining decision makers should hang their heads. The untouchable fact is that history will forever recognise Cam amongst the best of the best, and his legacy has a strength and following that will allow him continue to #aspiretoinspire for many generations to come! Lest we forget
Craig Blanch |
Sorry to hear that politics has begun to steer the ship, mate. But Cam will continue to serve and inspire generations come.
Cams Cause: Annual Information Statement 2023
The Balance Sheet for Cams Cause as at 30 June 2023 reveals the assets for the charity totalled $178,214.34 with total liablities of $181,555.48.
The Annual Information Statement advises that Cams Cause had one part-time employee and 14 casual employees.
Significant expenses for the reporting period included:
- Accommodation: $6,580.38
- Advertising and Promotion: $21,669.83
- Airfares/Team & Board Members: $6,425.89
- Consulting & Accounting: $14,211.82
- Fundraising Expenses: $18,868.39
Australian Charities & Not-For-Profits Commission Links for Cams Cause:
- ACNC: Cams Cause Inc – Profile
- ACNC Annual Information Statement 2023
- ACNC: Cams Cause – People
- ACNC: Cams Cause History
