RSL NSW Auxiliary Newsletter - April 2024

AUXILIARY NEWS

Welcome to the latest Auxiliary News! We hope that you’re enjoying reading the newsletter in its new format. We have also decided to transition to a quarterly publication schedule. Moving forward, you can expect to receive newsletters in March, June, September, and December. We thank you for your continued support.

All Auxiliary members whose details are registered on the sub-Branch Portal will receive a copy of the newsletter by email, as will each RSL NSW sub-Branch. It is important that contact details are kept current, so if you have any changes to your address, phone or email, please advise your sub-Branch Secretary.

The Auxiliary Newsletter will continue to be published on the Auxiliaries page of the RSL NSW website, but for those who prefer to read a hard copy, please click the ‘download’ icon in the bottom right corner to produce a PDF copy that you can read or print. Sue

IMPORTANT UPDATES

New Auxiliary: Mungindi

We are delighted to welcome the new Mungindi Auxiliary! Last Sunday, the Mungindi RSL sub-Branch formally welcomed 11 new Auxiliary members (with two more applications still pending) and presented them with badges and certificates. It was a wonderful event that saw Service, Affiliate and Auxiliary members all gather together to also commemorate a diamond wedding anniversary, and honour several members with special presentations.

The Mungindi Auxiliary have already been busy fundraising in the community, hosting weekly meat raffles and selling ANZAC biscuit tins and badges. So far, they’ve raised more than $5000 from meat raffles and $1000 from tin and badge sales to support local veterans and families.

Last week, the Auxiliary joined sub-Branch members for a working bee, to collectively tidy the local grounds ahead of the planned ANZAC Day commemorations.

Accessing circulars via the Member Portal

Auxiliary members can access all ANZAC House communications, including Circulars, Board Communiques, DPC Outcomes and digital issues of Reveille, through the RSL NSW Member Portal. Simply visit the Member Portal homepage, and under ‘Administration’, click on ‘ANZAC House Communications ’ to stay informed about the work RSL NSW is doing.

Administration

To avoid confusion regarding Auxiliaries administration, please read the information below:

• Membership applications: Download the RSL Auxiliary Membership Application form from the Auxiliaries page of the RSL NSW website. Completed forms should be sent to your sub-Branch Secretary, and once approved, emailed to support@rslnsw.org.au to be processed. The new member’s details will then be added to the sub-Branch Portal and their membership badge sent out.

• Membership badges: Badges are issued to all members, but remain the property of RSL NSW and must be returned if membership ceases. Life Membership Badges, however, remain the property of the recipient. Faulty badges will be replaced free of charge, but members will incur a fee for the replacement of a lost badge.

• Life Membership: The Life Membership eligibility criteria and application form can be downloaded from the Auxiliaries page of the RSL NSW website.

• Auxiliary functions: Though Area Groups no longer exist, that shouldn’t stop local Auxiliaries from getting together. A list of Auxiliaries can be found on the Auxiliaries page of the RSL NSW website, and contact can be made via the sub-Branch. Please chat to your sub-Branch Secretary to ensure they are forwarding on Auxiliary invitations – and, if you are hosting a function, invite other Auxiliaries in your area. Note: You can share details of upcoming events in the Auxiliary newsletter by emailing auxiliaries@rslnsw.org.au.

• Garden of Remembrance: If an Auxiliary member passes, please let us know via email auxiliaries@rslnsw.org.au. Sharing a short bio and photograph helps us to honour and remember valued members of our Auxiliaries in the newsletter.

New fundraising tokens

A selection of new tokens, including backing cards, is now available for purchase from our RSL NSW supplier, including:

• Rosemary pins – $1.05 each plus shipping

• Poppies – $1.05 each plus shipping

• Pens – $2.15 each plus shipping

A limited number of free tokens, formerly owned by Welfare and Benevolent Institution (WBI), are still available to sub-Branches and can be ordered online. You will be required to pay a small packing ($0.25 cents per token) and freight charge, however there is no charge for the tokens. Please note that these tokens will have outdated WBI details on the reverse side of the backing cards, and these details must be covered before fundraising in the local community.

To place an order for tokens, please visit the Fundraising page on the RSL NSW website.

SAFETalk and START courses

RSL NSW is committed to supporting the wellbeing of veterans and their families, and encourages interested members to participate in suicide prevention skills training, currently funded by the NSW Government. All RSL NSW members are invited to attend safeTALK (a half-day, in-person workshop) to learn the critical skills required to identify someone with thoughts of suicide, ask direct questions, and refer them to ongoing professional support.

ANZAC House will host a workshop in Sydney on Tuesday 4 June. This course is open to RSL NSW members, the wider veteran community, and their families, and will provide a supportive space to participate in the training. If anyone would like to attend this session, please complete this expression of interest form and details will be sent to you.

Any members who cannot attend an in-person workshop, can complete the 90-minute online Start training, designed to increase skills and confidence around suicide intervention, and provide helpful resources. Click here to register and commence the self-paced online course.

Extended term for Governor Beazley

NSW Premier Chris Minns has confirmed Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC has agreed to a two-year extension as the Governor of NSW following the approval of his recommendation by His Majesty the King. This will extend Governor Beazley’s term to 1 May 2026 and means her husband, Mr Dennis Wilson, will continue as our Patron during that period. We have passed on congratulations on behalf of RSL NSW Auxiliaries to both of them.

Auxiliary orders from the Merchandise Store

The RSL NSW Member Merchandise Store provides exclusive access to a range of merchandise at a wholesale price with fixed-price shipping. New items have been added in response to feedback from members, including short- and longsleeve business shirts, neck ties and scarfs, wide-brim hats and knit pullovers.

If your Auxiliary wishes to order from the catalogue, we recommend inserting ‘Auxiliary’ under the RSL NSW logo and sub-Branch name to customise your garments, as pictured here.

UPCOMING EVENTS

MEAO Commemoration on 11 July

RSL NSW will honour those ADF personnel who served in conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan during 2001 – 2021 with the inaugural Middle East Area of Operations (MEAO) commemoration on 11 July. The MEAO commemoration marks the date the Minister for Defence confirmed all ADF personnel had departed Afghanistan, bringing our nation’s longest war to a close.

An official service will take place in Sydney. All RSL NSW members, the wider veteran community, and members of the public are welcome to attend.

Where: Cenotaph, Martin Place in Sydney

When: Thursday 11 July 2024, from 11am

Contact: RSL NSW via 1300 679 775 or events@rslnsw.org.au

In the meantime, sub-Branches are encouraged to consider how they can facilitate a commemoration in their communities, and ANZAC House will pilot a school-based ‘Postcards of Honour’ campaign as a way to engage with local schools, and boost awareness of the MEAO commemoration.

Fairfield RSL Magpie Luncheon

Join Fairfield RSL Auxiliary for an afternoon of socialising with old and new friends. There will be a trading table, raffle and a prize for the best-dressed attendee!

Where: Fairfield RSL Club, 14 Anzac Ave, Fairfield NSW 2165

When: 6 July 2024, from 11am – 3pm

Cost: $50 per person

Dress code: Black and white

Contact: Toni Lord via 0419 013 589 or cityoffairfieldrslsubbranch@hotmail.com

AROUND THE AUXILIARIES

Baradine RSL Auxiliary

On 14 February, Baradine RSL Auxiliary marked National Servicemen’s Day by paying tribute to the sub-Branch’s two remaining Nashos with an afternoon tea and certificate presentation.

John King and Ian Eastburn were both recognised for 70 years of service to the RSL as a Nasho. They served from 1954 and have been active members of the Baradine RSL sub-Branch ever since.

Both John and Ian were thrilled to have their service recognised, as their army connection is still a big part of their lives. And the presentation was featured in the local Coonabarabran Times.

Doyalson/Wyee RSL Auxiliary

Recently a High Tea was given at Doyalson/Wyee RSL sub-Branch for the wives of deceased veterans and Auxiliary members.

Forestville RSL Auxiliary

Forestville RSL sub-Branch commemorated Service Animals in War with a Purple Poppy Day Walking Group, including dogs on a leash. Members laid a Purple Poppy Wreath, made by the Forestville Auxiliary, on the Purple Poppy Dog Park plaque, adjoining the Forestville RSL Club. This was followed by a walk around the ANZAC Memorial Pathway.

All participants then enjoyed morning coffee at the club, where Auxiliary members had laid out purple tablecloths and purple napkins. Thanks to all who joined in, to commemorate animals who served and lost their lives, as well as those animals serving today. This activity was coordinated as part of the RSL NSW Sport & Recreation Program.

Volunteers from the Forestville Auxiliary also visited ANZAC House this month to help pack corporate fundraising boxes for the ANZAC Appeal. The funds raised from the sale of these tokens will help RSL LifeCare Veteran Services to continue delivering life-changing support to veterans and their families.

The Auxiliaries’ help was much appreciated!

Castle Hill and District RSL Auxiliary

Recently, the Castle Hill and District RSL Auxiliary had the pleasure of joining a session at the Hills Women’s Shed, an initiative of the Positive Vibes Foundation. Some of their talented members, including Jan, Dianne, Daphne, and Michelle (who is also a member of the Hills Women’s Shed), carefully explained the intricate art of creating beautiful crocheted flowers.

Also, Castle Hill and District RSL sub-Branch organised a morning tea for their senior members to coincide with NSW Seniors Week. It was a heartwarming gathering with 46 attendees. Auxiliary and sub-Branch volunteers played an integral role, assisting with set-up, welcoming guests, and ensuring impeccable service throughout the event.

Sawtell RSL Auxiliary

Members of the Sawtell RSL Auxiliary have been busy wrapping up Easter Raffle prizes! They recently enjoyed a lunch at the Sawtell RSL Club, where they celebrated the birthday of an Auxiliary member, and snapped this lovely photo.

East Maitland RSL Auxiliary

East Maitland Coordinator June Campbell pictured with Auxiliary members this month.

For Every Drop Shed in Anguish

Let us know what’s happening at your Auxiliary.

We love to see what all the RSL Auxiliaries around NSW are up to, whether it’s events, fundraisers or Sport & Recreation activities.

Please share your photos and stories via auxiliaries@rslnsw.org.au to be featured in the next newsletter.

Recently, Pauline James had the privilege of attending the Australian War Memorial in Canberra where his Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd) dedicated the For Every Drop Shed in Anguish, a new sculpture recognising and commemorating the suffering caused by war and military service.

The Memorial commissioned the artwork in consultation with veterans and their families who have experienced or witnessed service-related trauma. The sculpture, by Alex Seton, is made up of 18 unique droplets of marble, weighing up to 3,000 kgs, which represent the blood, sweat and tears shed by those affected by their service and their families.

After the dedication Pauline and Ray attended an afternoon tea at Government House before meeting over dinner with the mothers and fathers of the service men and women who have taken their lives. An emotional day.

LIFE MEMBERSHIP

During a visit to East Maitland RSL Auxiliary, Pauline was delighted to present Narell Sattler and Lorraine Rutherford with their Life Memberships. Congratulations to both!

Narell Sattler

Narell Sattler has been an Auxiliary member for more than 20 years. In that time, Narell has held the positions of Vice President, President and Deputy Coordinator.

Lorraine Rutherford

Lorraine Rutherford has been an Auxiliary member for more than 20 years. In that time, Lorraine has held the positions of Assistance Secretary and Treasurer.

How to recommend a member for the Award of RSL NSW Auxiliary Life Membership:

The award of Life Membership is an exceptional honour for RSL NSW members. To view the Life Membership eligibility criteria and complete an application form, please visit the Auxiliaries page of the RSL NSW website.

‘THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE’ QUILTS

On 6 April, at East Maitland sub-Branch, the RSL NSW Auxiliaries surprised Albert Ditton, Judith Gargosky and Anthony Mulguiney by awarding them ‘Thank You For Your Service’ Quilts – for the first time, the Navy, Army and Air Force were all included in one presentation.

Albert Ditton

A former sailor, 90-yearold Albert does an amazing amount of work for the East Maitland RSL sub-Branch.

Judith Gargosky

Judy is an active member at East Maitland, serving as the sub-Branch Secretary and Pensions Officer.

Anthony Mulguiney

Vietnam veteran and President of the East Maitland RSL subBranch, Tony was honoured to receive his quilt.

Nominate a quilt recipient from your sub-Branch:

‘Thank You For Your Service’ quilts are hand-crafted by volunteers from the RSL NSW Auxiliary network, and awarded to recognise the dedication of past and current-serving ADF members, who offer ongoing support to the veteran community.

If you would like to nominate someone from your sub-Branch to receive a ‘Thank You For Your Service’ Quilt, please email your nomination directly to support@rslnsw.org.au

GARDEN OF REMEMBRANCE

Joy Dine - South Hurstville RSL Auxiliary

28/01/1924 – 17/02/2024

Joy joined South Hurstville Auxiliary on 8 May 1991. Small in stature and big in heart, Joy was a beloved member of the Auxiliary, participating in Tuesday Market Days and often picking up extra rosters. At ANZAC Day breakfasts, when the Auxiliary used to do the cooking, there was Joy with a smile on her face, interacting with everyone. Joy’s son Robert also participated in carrying the water for the urns of tea and coffee. Remembrance Day would see Joy manning her table for merchandise sales with a smile for all.

Joy also filled the important Welfare Officer role from 2001-2011 and did a fantastic job visiting hospitals and homes and checking in on the other members of the Women’s Auxiliary. “Her girls”, she called us. A very well-deserved Certificate of Appreciation was presented to Joy on 17 July 2016.

On 28 January 2024 ,Joy and her family in Queensland had a wonderful celebration for her 100th Birthday. Joy will be sadly missed by all her friends in the Auxiliary and sub-Branch. To Robert, Louise, Jennifer and all their families, our thoughts and love are with you all.

Rest in peace, dear friend.

Correction: In our March newsletter, we inadvertently said that the late Margaret Jones was a member of East Maitland Auxiliary when in fact she was a very valued member of Maitland Auxiliary. Our heartfelt apologies.

Mim Bulmer & Helen RaeMaitland RSL Auxiliary

It is with sadden hearts that we farewell two of Maitland RSL Auxiliary’s valued Life Members.

Mim and Helen (pictured left) were volunteers of our Auxiliary for decades, they manned stalls, sold badges, assisted with catering for functions, such as funerals, birthdays, etc.

Both Mim and Helen will be missed by everyone.

Yvonne Baker - Doyalson/Wyee RSL Auxiliary

Yvonne sadly passed in November 2023, and is missed by all.

Auxiliaries with Facebook pages

Ingleburn

ANZAC House RSL NSW

St George

Bundeena

Leeton

Port Macquarie

Woonona Bulli

Doyalson Wyee

Toukley

Woy Woy/Ettalong/Hardys Bay

If your Auxiliary has a Facebook page and is not listed here, please email us so we can add your details to the next newsletter.

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

For those who use Facebook, did you know we have both an Auxiliary Facebook page and group? Click on the links below to join us!

RSL NSW Auxiliary Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/ groups/163434587113422

Auxiliary Facebook Group:

https://www.facebook.com/ groups/3455036824555520

Battlefields from WWII, Gareth McCray OAM has regular posts, poems from Bill Charlton, and so much more.

Helping Our Veterans Craft Group

Heicke Keefe has set up a Facebook group for all of the crafters amongst us. Pop over and join! There are great ideas to help raise funds:

https://www.facebook.com/ groups/3455036824555520