Chris Gee’s smile sparkles through his eyes but, after 10 years in the army and 12 years as a paramedic, he’s the first to admit those eyes have seen some terrible things.

He was in the armoured cavalry regiment of the Australian Army and, like many of his fellow veterans, witnessed the carnage of war.

“I’ve had some issues with mental health,” he said.

The Townsville local and father of three said he realised he needed to do something drastic to clear his mind and help him heal from an accumulation of past traumas.

So, on Sunday after the city’s Anzac Day commemorations were over, Mr Gee set off on his bike to cycle around Australia on his Resolute Ride.

‘I’m absolutely terrified’

The 20,000-kilometre journey is expected to take six months.

“I’m excited, but I’m also absolutely terrified by the prospect of doing this — it’s a large challenge … mixed emotions,” Mr Gee said.