Reveille March 2024

R E S P E C T I N G , S U P P O R T I N G A N D R E M E M B E R I N G O U R V E T E R A N S A N D T H E I R FA M I L I E S

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SUB-BRANCHES REACHING OUT TO CURRENT DEFENCE PERSONNEL

IN THE SPOTLIGHT OLD BAR BEACH RSL SUB-BRANCH

GUIDING LIGHT Marc Mathews on connecting veterans with the support and services they need

T H E

P R I C E

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O F

L I B E R T Y

I S

E T E R N A L

V I G I L A N C E

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Contents

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THIS MONTH

20 12

28 34

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FEATURES

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TOGETHER WE STAND How the Old Bar Beach RSL sub-Branch has broken new ground with its attached RSL Auxiliary.

16

RESEARCH VISUALISATION Four graphs that shine a light on the issue of Defence and veteran suicide – and reveal a vital call to action.

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FIRST LINE OF SUPPORT Marc Mathews, Shaun Graham and Bronte Pollard take us behind the scenes of the RSL NSW Wellbeing Support Officer project.

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NEW CONNECTIONS How three RSL subBranches are increasing their membership by engaging current Defence personnel.

NEWS

REGULARS

06

04

RSL NSW NEWS ANZAC Day, the final Royal Commission hearing block, the RSL NSW Sport & Recreation Program launches for 2024, and more.

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SUB-BRANCH NEWS Events and stories from sub-Branches and their members across the state.

WELCOME President Mick Bainbridge and CEO Giles Hurst on ANZAC Day, Veteran Support Fund activity and more.

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LAST POST

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SNAPSHOT NSW Fire Brigades RSL sub-Branch.

rslnsw.org.au

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Welcome

R

SL sub-Branches have launched themselves into preparations for this year’s ANZAC Day commemorations.

Their tireless efforts exemplify an inspiring dedication and service to the occasion.

MICK BAINBRIDGE PRESIDENT, RSL NSW “Having a day for returned servicepeople to come together to provide mateship and a sense of camaraderie is incredibly powerful.

It’s a day to remember friends we have lost, and support each other and our families.”

ANZAC Day is for quiet contemplation, for catching up with mates, and for the community to come together.

That’s why I supported the Botanic Gardens of Sydney’s decision to prevent a large concert at The Domain on ANZAC Day. I love live music and the community it builds – but it has to be at the right time. ANZAC Day is not the day for a music festival. ANZAC Day is a day to reflect on the sacrifices made by approximately 120,000 people from NSW who served overseas during WWI, as well as all who have served since.

I was supported by the Premier to prevent the concert from impacting commemorations, and I will continue to work with the NSW Government to ensure the day is not commercialised. ANZAC Day is not for sale.

Through the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, we’ve seen how important it is to protect and honour our network of veterans and families, and to build opportunities to support each other.

to provide mateship and a sense of camaraderie is incredibly powerful. It’s a day to remember friends we have lost, and support each other and our families through the various personal challenges that can come with being a veteran.

The arrival of the Royal Commission’s final report, due in September, is one we await eagerly. I will ensure that the League advocates strongly to ensure the government implements its recommendations. This includes the establishment of an appropriately funded and resourced National Commissioner for Defence and Veteran Wellbeing, which will continue to support troops and veterans into the future.

We may already be three months into 2024, but I encourage all sub-Branches to make a particular effort when organising community and fundraising activities this year to throw the net wide and consider who else may be willing to attend and what else they can do to encourage widespread participation.

These activities showcase what the League is best at. For it’s not only on ANZAC Day that we have the opportunity to come together, and to show solidarity and respect for the service and sacrifice of others – it’s all year round.

Having a day for returned servicepeople to come together

rslnsw.org.au

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THE RETURNED AND SERVICES LEAGUE OF AUSTRALIA (NEW SOUTH WALES BRANCH) ANZAC House Suite 11.02 Level 11, 175 Pitt St, Sydney, NSW 2000

GILES HURST CEO, RSL NSW

T

he RSL NSW Veteran Support Fund (VSF) has seen an inspiring boost. In the three months to the end of last year, 43 RSL sub-Branches donated a total of $3.2 million to the fund, bringing its overall balance to $5.4 million.

Already, five of the VSF’s initiatives for 2024 have been fully covered, including RSL Scholarships and the RSL NSW Liaison Officer role at the National Centre for Veterans’ Healthcare. And sub-Branches continue to pitch in ahead of the donations cut-off on 30 June.

Nominations close for the next round of VSF initiatives – those for 2025 – on 31 March, and I encourage all sub-Branches to get involved by making a nomination and donating within their means.

Helping others is at the heart of RSL NSW’s charitable purpose, and another way this is accomplished is with an acute focus on policy and advocacy.

Phone (02) 9264 8188 Email support@rslnsw.org.au Web www.rslnsw.org.au President Mick Bainbridge Chief Executive Officer Giles Hurst

Whereas donations via the VSF can have an immediate positive impact on the community via the funded initiatives, long-term change is also a key priority for RSL NSW. Policy and advocacy, such as that in support of the Royal Commission’s recommendations, are areas of growth and potential for the League. You can learn more about how the RSL is calling for policy changes in support of veterans and their families on page nine of this issue.

My focus for the coming months is communicating directly with members. Learning about the unique priorities and concerns of sub-Branch members is key to supporting the organisation, and the ANZAC House team is committed to making the biggest difference to the greatest number of veterans and their families in 2024 and beyond.

State Secretary Jeff O’Brien

Publishing Director Jelena Li Managing Editor Hallie Donkin Editor Lachlan Haycock Creative Director Gareth Allsopp Art direction and design Fiona Robinson, Heath Dunn Creative Producer Jai Chouhan Cover photography David Smyth Advertising Manager Nicole Prioste +61 2 4932 7123 nicole@nkmedia.com.au Advertising Operations Executive William Ryan 0412 747 323 william.ryan@mahlab.co Reveille is published by the New South Wales Branch of the RSL in association with Mahlab. Everything in this magazine is copyright and may not be reproduced unless written permission is granted by RSL NSW prior to its publication date. All rights reserved © copyright by RSL NSW. All contributions are welcome; please contact news@rslnsw.org.au. All care will be taken with material but no responsibility is assumed or accepted by the publisher or RSL NSW for loss or damage. All opinions expressed in Reveille are not necessarily those of the publisher or RSL NSW.

rslnsw.org.au

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News

ANZAC DAY MARCH 2024 The ANZAC Day March in Sydney honours those who have served in the defence of Australia and its interests. Here’s a guide to the day.

Who can march

Formation

Transport

Anyone who has served in the Australian Defence Force is eligible to participate in the march. Veterans’ descendants are invited to march with a unit formation as carers (maximum of one carer per marching veteran), banner parties or flag carriers.

All other descendants are invited to march within the descendants’ contingent. One descendant of a deceased veteran may honour their relative’s service in the march and may wear their medals on the right breast.

The march is not a parade – no vehicle, animal (except registered service animals), weaponry, memorabilia (including historic uniforms) or photographs may be included.

Veterans should assemble with one of the units of which they were or are a member. The choice of where to march is a personal one, however those who served together should march together as an act of remembrance and mateship.

Formations of more than eight should march as close to eight abreast as practicable.

Units should form up as follows: 1. Leader 2. Banner party 3. Veterans 4. Carers The march is three hours long. Veterans who may not cover the whole distance on foot are encouraged to position themselves at the side of their formation so they can fall out independently and proceed to an exit point.

Veterans are entitled to free public transport on ANZAC Day. The NSW Taxi Council has generously offered to place vehicles and drivers at RSL NSW’s disposal for the transport of veterans with a disability or limited mobility through the march. For bookings, please contact the NSW Taxi Council on 02 8339 4644 before 11 April.

Watch from home The march will be televised on ABC TV and can be streamed on iView after the event.

On the day 4:15AM

9AM

12:30PM

5:OOPM

Dawn Service

Sydney CBD March Commences

Commemoration Service

Sunset Service Ceremony

at the Cenotaph, Martin Place

at the Anzac Memorial, Hyde Park

at the Cenotaph, Martin Place

rslnsw.org.au

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AUSTRALIAN HONOURS & AWARDS The annual Australian Honours and Awards system recognises the distinguished and conspicuous service of individuals.

Congratulations to the following RSL NSW members who have been recognised by His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd) with a Medal (OAM) in the General Division for services to veterans.

Each award is a testament to the recipient’s continued efforts to embody the spirit of what it means to wear an RSL badge.

FIND OUT MORE and

Order of March 1. Navy / Army / Air Force 2. Commonwealth troops 3. Civilians in support of Australian troops 4. Descendants of Australian veterans 5. Allies The Order of March cannot be changed without the approval of ANZAC House.

download or request printed copies of route maps and other resources by using the QR code. You can also contact ANZAC Day on 1300 679 775.

Darrell Raymond Hegarty Merimbula RSL sub-Branch

Elizabeth Anne Docksey APM City of Albury RSL sub-Branch

David Allan Williams Merrylands RSL sub-Branch

Noel Henry Moulder The Entrance/Long Jetty RSL sub-Branch

Major Graham William Docksey OAM (Retd) City of Albury RSL sub-Branch

John Edward Glennon Balmain Rozelle RSL sub-Branch

Congratulations also to Grenfell RSL sub-Branch member Peter Butcher, who was named Weddin Shire Senior Citizen of the Year 2024.

MEMBER Access resources relevant members, including PORTAL to member recruitment tools NOW LIVE and marketing collateral, on the RSL NSW member portal, which you can access now on the RSL NSW website.

rslnsw.org.au

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News

NEW VETERANS’ & FAMILIES’ HUB ANNOUNCED IN QUEANBEYAN

T

he new Veterans’ and Families’ Hub is expected to open before June 2026 and provide much-needed services to more than 26,000 veterans and their families in Queanbeyan and surrounds.

The announcement is part of the government’s $46.7 million commitment to deliver 10 additional hubs nationally.

A new hub in Queanbeyan enables RSL LifeCare to implement a ‘hub and spoke’ model, developed in consultation with local

RSL LIFECARE

RSL LifeCare Veteran Services, in partnership with RSL NSW, will receive almost $5.5 million in funding to develop the hub.

Among those present were (left to right): RSL NSW President Mick Bainbridge; RSL LifeCare Executive General Manager, Veteran Services, David Anderson; Matt Keogh MP; Kristy McBain MP; RSL ACT President John King and City of Queanbeyan RSL sub-Branch President Matt Helm.

communities and other exservice organisations, through the network of RSL sub-Branches.

RSL LifeCare CEO Janet Muir emphasised the significance of the successful bid as a pivotal step in the ongoing commitment of RSL LifeCare to assist veterans and their families.

“As an organisation, we are thrilled to have secured the bid and look forward to the opportunity to extend our support to an even greater number of veterans and their families with the new hub.”

A step forward RSL NSW President Mick Bainbridge said the League is committed to supporting the Veterans’ and Families’ Hubs network.

“The expansion of hubs in locations with significant Defence

Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Matt Keogh MP and Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories Kristy McBain MP.

“The expansion of hubs … is a strong step in the right direction to bolstering the support we deliver to Australian servicemen and women, and their families.”

— Mick Bainbridge and veteran communities is a strong step in the right direction to bolstering the support we deliver to Australian servicemen and women, and their families.”

Last year, RSL NSW subBranches donated $3.3 million to RSL LifeCare to ensure that veterans and their families continue to receive free critical services and support, including access to local Veterans’ and Families’ Hubs.

RSL LIFECARE VETERAN SERVICES, with support from RSL NSW, also offers transitional accommodation and wraparound support to veterans experiencing homelessness via the Homes for Heroes program.

Use the QR code to learn more.

rslnsw.org.au

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ADVOCATING FOR VETERANS’ WELLBEING The RSL is calling on the Australian Government to introduce measures to enable veterans to reach their full economic and social potential.

R

SL NSW continues to advocate for the wellbeing of veterans and their families across several key policy areas.

In 2024, these areas include: • Implementing the recommendations of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide •F unding for a business case to develop a peak body for ESOs •C ontinued effort to permanently reduce the claims backlog of the Department of Veterans’ Affairs • Research into veteran homelessness •B etter access to health care for veterans and their families

RSL Australia has made a pre-budget submission, spearheaded by RSL NSW, to the Australian Government outlining these and other recommendations.

“The 2024-25 Budget provides the opportunity for the government to strengthen the health and wellbeing of veterans and their families by including significant funding measures,” said RSL Australia President Greg Melick.

READ THE RSL’s pre-budget submission.

EVENTS CALENDAR FOR VETERANS The 2024 calendar is filling up with events and activities you can take part in – and we’ve compiled a list.

Consider how you can participate in the organisation of commemorative events, or invite a fellow veteran or family member along to a social or recreational activity.

VIEW THE FULL calendar using the QR code.

rslnsw.org.au

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10 News

Members from more than 50 RSL sub-Branches attended the City2Surf event in 2023.

ORGANISE A SPORT & RECREATION ACTIVITY IN 2024

M

ore than 500 activities were held as part of the RSL NSW Sport & Recreation Program in 2023.

This year, RSL sub-Branches are encouraged to organise enough events geared towards social inclusion and community involvement to reach the magical milestone of 1,000 activities.

These events should be submitted to the Sport & Recreation Program calendar to encourage wider participation.

KEEP AN EYE OUT for the opening of registrations for the RSL NSW City2Surf team, and submit your subBranch’s activities to the calendar using the QR code.

SPUR RANCH EQUINE PROGRAM RIDES AGAIN

A

n hour southwest of Sydney is Spur Ranch, co-located at RSL LifeCare’s John Goodlet Manor in Picton. There, a group of volunteers coordinates the Spur Ranch Equine Program, a unique offering designed to improve veterans’ wellbeing.

Course dates for 2024 have been announced, with a two-day Western Handlers Course running on 7–8 March, 27–28 March and 3–4 April, and a four-day Western Riding Fundamentals Course running on 18–21 March and 8–11 April.

The two-day course is mandatory to be eligible for further courses.

MEET THE VOLUNTEERS who make it all possible.

rslnsw.org.au

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19/2/2024 1:41 pm

THE MOBILE FOOT CLINIC THAT COMES TO YOU

ARE YOU A VETERAN? WITH FOOT & KNEE RELATED ISSUES? MOBILE PODIATRIST SYDNEY & ILLAWARRA MAKE AN APPOINTMENT

0493 367 109

INFO@THEMOBILEFOOTCLINIC.COM. AU

General nail and foot care. including corns, calluses and ingrown toe nails Management of foot/ankle/heel and knee pain Prescribed Medical Grade Footwear/Orthotics

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DVA Health Cards (Gold & White) are accepted as payment upon GP referral We also take care of organising your GP referral for a seamless experience.

19/2/2024 1:41 pm

12 Community

TOGETHER WE STAND When Richard and Vickie Jackson retired to Old Bar, volunteering for the local RSL sub-Branch wasn’t part of their plans. A chance encounter on a summer’s day changed that, and now they’re helping set a new standard for how a sub-Branch and its Auxiliary can work together.

As told to Tess Durack

rslnsw.org.au

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and welfare. I’m so proud of the work Vickie is doing.

Richard ‘Rick’ Jackson Richard Jackson served as a Fitter Armourer for the Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers from 1988 to 1995. He served at 101st Field Workshops and 8/12 Medium Regiment Technical Support Troop, and is now Secretary of the Old Bar Beach RSL sub-Branch.

I

didn’t expect to be involved in the Old Bar Beach RSL sub-Branch when we moved up from Sydney after retiring. I wasn’t a member of my local sub-Branch in Sydney, probably for the same reason a lot of veterans aren’t: I had an image of a sub-Branch as a big club with pokies and some stranger demanding I show my ID, and I didn’t know then that a sub-Branch offers something different to a Club. So to begin with, I had no intention of joining the sub-Branch in Old Bar. Then, one morning, not long after we moved up, I was out the front doing some gardening and along came this bloke putting pamphlets in letterboxes. It was hot and he’d obviously been slogging along the streets for a while, so I offered him a bottle of water and we got talking.

There was something about seeing this nice man put in the hard effort on his Sunday morning that affected me. I realised I had nothing to lose, so I went to a meeting. The man

handing out the pamphlets was Jeff Earley, President of the Old Bar Beach RSL sub-Branch, and over the course of the meeting I learned about his and his wife Teresa’s vision to make veterans’ families the beating heart of the sub-Branch – and to bring the Auxiliary to the forefront.

That really struck a chord with me, and by the second meeting I found myself nominated for Secretary. Not long after, Vickie put her hand up to be Coordinator of the Auxiliary.

I reckon we’d be dead and buried without the Auxiliary.

They are critical to our success as a sub-Branch, and Auxiliary members should feel as important and respected as any veteran. The Auxiliary at Old Bar Beach isn’t relegated to making sandwiches in the back room. They play a crucial role in fundraising, events

The more visible you are, the easier it is for people to connect.

Often it’s the wife or partner of a veteran who reaches out for support, and they can do that via the Auxiliary too. Our message to veterans who are unsure about joining is that our support isn’t conditional on their membership. If you’re a veteran, we’re there for you and we’re there for your family.

All ranks are left at the door.

Everyone is treated the same.

Sometimes a family event or sporting event is a good way to break the ice. We have trivia nights, meat tray raffles, intersub-Branch fishing comps, BBQs and pickleball competitions. We help veterans who are moving, we visit the local primary school and we mow lawns for the surf club. And then there are the commemorative events and RSL military tributes that are so important to our community.

If I could say one thing to subBranches wanting to boost their membership, it would be to include veterans’ families and involve the Auxiliary. Jeff and Teresa’s dedication to that vision shows that it works. Three and a half years ago, the subBranch had about 12 members.

At last year’s Christmas party, we filled the surf club, and our Facebook page now has more than 800 followers. »

“I reckon we’d be dead and buried without the Auxiliary.”

— Richard ‘Rick’ Jackson rslnsw.org.au

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14 Community They go behind the cenotaph, and we now have 300. It’s meant a lot to the community.

It’s a lot of work organising the rosters, and setting up and taking down all the equipment, but our volunteers are amazing.

Vickie Jackson Vickie Jackson was inspired to join the Old Bar Beach RSL Auxiliary after noticing a colleague’s dedication to the cause. As the Auxiliary’s Coordinator, she is the driving force behind its administration, community engagement and fundraising.

I

went along to sub-Branch meetings to support Rick but never imagined myself being involved. When I saw Teresa Earley working such long hours to support the sub-Branch and try to get the Auxiliary off the ground while looking after her young family, I knew I had to step up. I was invited to register the Auxiliary and get the ball rolling as Coordinator, and it snowballed from there.

Jeff and Teresa Earley wanted the Auxiliary to be not just an arm of the sub-Branch but an integral part of it, and we’ve been dedicated to fulfilling that vision. Now, in any meeting, our opinion is always heard and respected. We can’t always vote on sub-Branch issues, but we can always be part of the discussion. The activities of the Auxiliary are always acknowledged at every meeting so sub-Branch members are aware of how active we are.

The first thing we did as an Auxiliary was to knit poppies for ANZAC Day to sell in local shops.

So many people wanted to be involved. The local craft group helped us, and we ended up with so many poppies in that first year that we’ve still got some today!

Being visible in the community is important. We want to make it easy for people to connect with us. We hold Sunday morning raffles outside the local butcher, we have a fundraising stall outside Coles, and you can find us at the monthly markets too, as well as at commemorative and special events. We wear our t-shirts so everyone knows we’re there. A lot of Auxiliary members are the wives and daughters of serving members, and there are sons and grandsons too. Anyone who wants to chat can find someone who understands them.

For ANZAC Day we started offering a white cross to anyone in the community who wanted a loved one’s name recognised.

A few of us attended an RSL NSW Wellbeing Support Officer course so we could check on the wellbeing of veterans in the community who might be having a tough time and to figure out who might need extra resources. It’s about helping people feel connected and supported, whether they are members or not.

Wellbeing is about a holistic approach, and sport and recreation is an important part of that. The Back to Balance initiative, organised as part of the RSL NSW Sport & Recreation Program, helps veterans with core strength and balance, and with funding via that program we hold two full classes a week at the Soldiers Memorial Hall. Auxiliary members are also welcome to join; we want all our activities to be inclusive and welcoming.

We’ve met wonderful people, and it’s brought Rick and I closer.

I was a primary school teacher for 41 years before retiring to Old Bar and never pictured myself doing this. Now I can’t imagine my life without it.

Reach out to and work alongside your attached or a nearby Auxiliary to organise activities, and you can bring more people into the fold of the sub-Branch.

rslnsw.org.au

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Member recruitment tools The RSL NSW Member Recruitment Toolkit is a one-stop shop for sub-Branches to engage their veteran communities and attract new members.

The RSL NSW Member Recruitment Toolkit contains resources to empower RSL NSW members reach out to veterans in their community and encourage them to join, including:

AD

Advertising material, including signage, posters and banners, to help you publicise your sub-Branch to local veterans and their families

[image] Mockup

Social media resources, templates and guides so you can put your sub-Branch’s best foot forward Event-in-a-box collateral to help create opportunities to speak with local veterans and build community A new member welcome kit, to turn interest into long-term membership and active sub-Branch involvement

The toolkit is free to download for all sub-Branches.

@

Share how your sub-Branch is using the toolkit to reach out to and engage new members and their families – it can help us develop even more effective tools for sub-Branches.

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Tag RSL NSW on social media or email us using the QR code.

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16 Under the hood

ADDRESSING

DEFENCE & VETERAN SUICIDE Story Lachlan Haycock

Awareness of and responses to Defence and veteran suicide have grown stronger in the wake of the Royal Commission.

Here are four graphs that shine light on a vital issue.

R

SL NSW is committed to supporting the wellbeing of veterans and their families, as well as advocating for recommendations made by the Royal Commission.

The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) has released its latest research outlining the suicide rate for current and ex-serving Defence personnel between 1997 and 2021.

The demographic covered by the report includes members who have served since 1985, with many datasets being split among males and females, and being presented across metrics such as age, rank and length of service.

The AIHW’s findings reveal several insights, such as how, across certain demographic brackets, the ex-serving suicide rate is statistically higher than that of the general Australian population.

HELP IS AT HAND There are numerous support services available to help you, a colleague or a family member in times of crisis: Open Arms 24/7 Support Line 1800 011 046 Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467 Lifeline 24/7 Crisis Support 13 11 14 Beyond Blue Support Service 1300 22 4636

rslnsw.org.au

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The below graph displays the rate of suicide for current and ex-serving Defence personnel, showing the number of deaths per 100,000 population.

expected in some areas due to low total numbers, and that data for current and ex-serving personnel encompasses date ranges – such as 1998–2000 – which may overlap due to reporting conventions.

Pay particular attention to the rate for ex-serving males, which even at its lowest points has stayed above that of other metrics since the beginning of the dataset. Note that, according to the AIHW, fluctuations are

BY SERVICE STATUS & GENDER

The rate for permanent and Reserve females was not statistically signficant, so the results do not appear in the report. »

Per 100,000 population

40

Ex-serving males 30 Ex-serving females 20 Reserve males

10

2019–2021

2018–2020

2017–2019

2016–2018

2015–2017

2014–2016

2013–2015

2012–2014

2011–2013

2010–2012

2009–2011

2008–2010

2007–2009

2006–2008

2005–2007

2004–2006

2003–2005

2002–2004

2001–2003

2000–2002

1999–2001

1998–2000

Permanent males

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18 Under the hood

10

5

2022

2020

Ex-serving males under 30

40

Story Girard Dorney

20

2019–2021

2018–2020

2017–2019

2016–2018

2015–2017

2014–2016

2013–2015

2012–2014

2011–2013

2010–2012

2009–2011

2008–2010

2007–2009

2006–2008

2005–2007

2003–2005

2004–2006

2001–2003

2002–2004

2000–2002

1999–2001

1998–2000

Australian males under 30

1997–1999

Men are often more at risk of suicide. This graph illustrates that the rate of suicide for ex-serving males under 30 is much higher than the general under-30 population, which points to the importance of prioritising mental health support particularly among young male veterans.

Per 100,000 population

60

THE IMPACT OF AGE

2018

2016

2014

2012

2010

2008

2006

2002

2000

2004

Females

1996

For comparison, the male suicide rate among the general Australian population has sat at or below 20 per 100,000 population for more than two decades. This is even lower for females, at a little more than six.

Males

15

1998

THE GENERAL POPULATION

Per 100,000 population

20

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60

<1 year

RSL NSW SUPPORT & SERVICES Veterans and their families can access essential support and services at the statewide network of RSL sub-Branches and at Veterans’ and Families’ Hubs, which are operated by RSL LifeCare Veteran Services with support from RSL NSW.

1–5 years

5–10 years

Two new centres have recently been announced in the Central Coast and Queanbeyan. These are set to provide a new outlet for veterans to access essential support and services in those regions. The centres join those in Nowra, Wagga Wagga, Newcastle and Dee Why. RSL sub-Branches in NSW have heard the call to foster positive mental and physical health among members – indeed, the whole community – by organising

10–20 years

2019–2021

2018–2020

2017–2019

2016–2018

2015–2017

2013–2015

2014–2016

2011–2013

2012–2014

2010–2012

2009–2011

2008–2010

2007–2009

2006–2008

2005–2007

2003–2005

2004–2006

2001–2003

2002–2004

2000–2002

1999–2001

A service length of more than 20 years sees the rate drop to below 20 per 100,000 population, less than half that of the rate for those who have served for less than one year.

20

1998–2000

According to this graph, personnel who have served for less than one year have a higher likelihood of dying by suicide than those who have served for longer.

40

1997–1999

Lastly, here’s an indication of how the rate changes depending on the individual’s length of service.

Per 100,000 population

LENGTH OF SERVICE

20> years

activities as part of the RSL NSW Sport & Recreation Program.

The program, which is open now for 2024, encourages subBranches to get veterans and families together to forge bonds of camaraderie and community.

CHECK OUT the list of upcoming events and get involved.

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20 On the cover WSO and Molong RSL sub-Branch member Marc Mathews.

FIRST LINE OF SUPPORT With the Wellbeing Support Officer project, RSL NSW is training volunteers to help veterans in need, no matter where they’re located.

Story Girard Dorney

E

ight years after joining the Army, where he served in various capacities, including in East Timor, Marc Mathews received terrible news.

“I found out I had two skull base tumours, which had to be surgically removed,” he says. “So I had two massive surgeries to remove the diseased bone. Then I was medically discharged.” »

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“We are a community of veterans and we are a culture. That’s what’s starting to kick in.”

— Marc Mathews, RSL NSW Compensation Advocate and WSO Trainer »

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22 On the cover Marc Mathews with fellow veteran Barry King.

Even if a veteran has no medical issues, leaving the service can be isolating and alienating, not to mention financially fraught. But Mathews had the most serious of medical histories, and found himself in Dubbo trying to navigate the various pieces of veteran compensation legislation to attain financial security. So when he got an offer of help from someone who claimed to know how to apply for support through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA), he took it.

Unfortunately, that person was not qualified.

“They didn’t actually know what they were talking about,” says Mathews. “So they put in an incorrect application, under the wrong [category].”

Mathews wouldn’t learn for years what had gone wrong. From his perspective, all that happened was a typically drawn out, stressful experience took longer and was even more stressful.

His desire to make sure veterans avoided a similar fate saw him become a qualified Compensation Advocate under the Advocacy Training and Development Program (ATDP).

It’s also why he was thrilled to hear RSL NSW would be formalising the Wellbeing Support Officer (WSO) project and immediately agreed to be a trainer. Because when veterans need help, whether they seek it out or someone in the community raises a concern, it’s crucial that the person who responds knows what they’re doing.

Support, not advocacy The essential letter in WSO is ‘S’ – support – because it defines both the mission and its limits.

“It’s intended to be an entrylevel position for those looking to support other veterans,” says Bronte Pollard, RSL NSW Liaison Officer at the National Centre for Veterans’ Healthcare and WSO Trainer.

“If someone walks into their subBranch looking for help, you can be the person who finds out what’s troubling them. Or if there’s a veteran in hospital, you would reach out and see if there’s anything they need. Even if there’s someone the community knows is maybe a concern, you can jump in and do a wellbeing check.”

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Of course, the RSL community has always had people who help others informally, and then there are those, like Mathews, who become accredited through the ATDP as Wellbeing Advocates or Compensation Advocates.

WSOs don’t undertake the many months of learning and casework that advocates do, but neither is the position casual. In fact, one of the success metrics of the RSL NSW Strategic Plan 2021-26 is to staff every sub-Branch with at least one WSO by the end of 2024.

“The training is essentially a one-day course that touches on essential skills and procedures,” says Pollard. “You’re looking at things like communication, active listening, the importance of selfcare when caring for others, visitor etiquette in hospital and aged care facilities, privacy concerns, and how to manage a funeral service.” »

“If someone walks into their sub-Branch looking for help, you can be the person who finds out what’s troubling them.”

— Bronte Pollard, RSL NSW Liaison Officer and WSO Trainer

THE FUTURE OF THE ROLE As outlined in the RSL NSW Strategic Plan 2021-26, the aim is that by the end of 2024 every RSL sub-Branch will have a WSO on board who can “provide connection to camaraderie, support services and the wider community”.

Specifically, they’d be able to connect veterans to: 1. Training and employment pathways 2. Housing providers 3. A full range of counselling and health services 4. Claims, and compensation and wellbeing advocacy Ideally, RSL NSW would like to place WSOs on or near Defence bases so that they can work with the Joint Transition Authority in helping current serving and transitioning Defence personnel address any wellbeing concerns.

Since the role has been explicitly designed to help qualified compensation and wellbeing advocates, and so many volunteers have such qualifications as a future goal, it could also offer a talent pipeline for the ATDP. The truth is, the success of the WSO project – which is really about improving the wellbeing of all veterans – hinges on a high number of members putting up their hands.

“Qualified advocates are not available 24/7,” says Dubbo RSL sub-Branch President and WSO Shaun Graham. “The more people out there doing it, the better the outcomes.”

Marc Mathews is one of a growing number of WSOs in NSW.

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24 On the cover

Crucially, the WSO is not supposed to offer advice or try to directly address a veteran’s core issues.

“The role is to support, listen and refer,” says Mathews. “We’re not saying don’t help – you just need to know your left and right of arc. For instance, as soon as someone starts talking about compensation, the WSOs know they’re not covered by insurance and to pass the veteran on to an accredited advocate, either through a sub-Branch or RSL LifeCare Veteran Services.”

Perhaps the most important tool for a WSO is a network of contacts with the appropriate qualifications, including statewide institutions such as RSL LifeCare and local services for medical issues, counselling, housing services and so on.

This network generation tends to happen organically during training, says WSO and Dubbo RSL subBranch President Shaun Graham.

“The people who were in my course were all from the Central West, and that enabled us to establish a network among the WSOs.” As for what a typical day looks like for a WSO, it varies wildly, because veterans’ experiences are highly unique.

“Every case is different,” says Graham.

Knowing where to turn Leaving the service is difficult in a way civilians can’t understand. For starters, each departure is distinct.

Retiring after serving for decades is not the same as leaving after a shorter career, which is nothing like being medically discharged.

Grim numbers reveal how true this is. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics’ National Health Survey 2020-21, longer service was associated with lower suicide rates. Men who served for less than one year had a rate of 46.4 per 100,000 population per year, compared to 15.4 for those who served over 20 years.

Likewise, between 2003 and 2019, men who left of their own accord had close to an average suicide rate (22.2 per 100,000 population per year, compared to 22.4 in all Australian men). Those who had an involuntary medical discharge had a much higher rate of 73.1.

Dire as they are, such numbers only hint at the struggles facing

“The role is to support, listen and refer. We’re not saying don’t help – you just need to know your left and right of arc.”

— Marc Mathews, RSL NSW Compensation Advocate and WSO Trainer veterans. Leaving Defence is not the same as simply changing your career.

In a paper published in the Journal of Veterans Studies titled ‘The “Transition” to Civilian Life From the Perspective of Former Serving Australian Defence Force Members’, researchers discovered many veterans preferred to use the word “transitioning” rather

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25

than “a transition”, because even many years after leaving the Army they were still adjusting.

Marc Mathews organised a WSO volunteer training session alongside Bronte Pollard.

In talking to Defence members, the researchers found that while serving, many felt compelled to prioritise the job over their personal lives. It’s no wonder then that, beyond overcoming physical and mental burnout, many discharged Defence members struggle with identity issues that don’t resolve quickly.

Indeed, some personnel spoke to the researchers about how “reintegration” was an inaccurate term. They began serving young, before they’d established themselves as adult civilians, so they weren’t returning to a world they understood.

They were establishing a new life in an unfamiliar world – integrating, not reintegrating.

So what helps ex-service members integrate? The paper found “the key theme that benefited the participants’ transition to civilian life was the power of their relationships with military peers”.

Graham says in the past this would have been naturally and locally available. In both World Wars, the recruits for the first allvolunteer battalions were sourced entirely from particular regions.

“Those guys all joined up together, they served together, they went through the difficulties of service together, and then they came home together. They could see each other on a daily basis in a lot of cases, or at least catch up regularly.” »

CONSIDERING BECOMING A WSO? If becoming an WSO sounds like something you’d be interested in, reach out to ANZAC House to learn more.

“You won’t know if it’s for you until you give it a go. It’s a wonderful feeling to give back – that’s the biggest thing.

When you have an outcome for someone that improves their situation, no matter how small, it’s brilliant. That’s why I do it.”

— Shaun Graham, Dubbo RSL sub-Branch President and WSO “If someone wants to support the veteran community, wants to support their mates, talk to ANZAC House and their sub-Branch and say, ‘Hey, I want to do this.’ Just start that conversation now. Because we’re currently looking at when and where we’re running the next course.” — Marc Mathews, RSL NSW Compensation Advocate and WSO Trainer “The beauty of the WSO role is you don’t have to be a subject matter expert on every part of wellbeing. If you’re interested in visiting people in hospitals, for example, you can do that. It’s very flexible and it gives you that entry-level taste of what it means to support veterans.” — Bronte Pollard, RSL NSW Liaison Officer and WSO Trainer rslnsw.org.au

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26 On the cover

That’s not the experience of today’s service people.

“Units are recruited from all over Australia – you’re chucked into a melting pot,” says Graham. “I just came home and that was it. We all went off on postings and never saw anyone. I spoke to a couple of blokes, but it was hard to get a hold of them. That certainly creates a lot of angst, because you’re not around people who went through the same things.”

Talking to former Defence personnel, the journal article’s authors found “it was the participants’ former serving peers, already in the civilian world, who provided the greatest transition support”.

No deed too small Even though the WSO project is in its infancy, this dynamic has already played out in sub-Branches.

“On a daily basis we are getting phone calls asking for help from young veterans in their 20s through to veterans in their 60s, 70s and 80s who are really out there struggling with life,” says Graham. “Particularly at the moment with the cost of living.”

On top of requests for financial assistance of various kinds, there are often simpler requests, such as facilitating a trip to a clinic.

“Our sub-Branch at the moment is helping out as best we can three members on their journeys through cancer treatment,” says Graham. “Getting them to and from medical specialists, helping out

with things back in Dubbo while they’re away [with] mowing the lawn, and anything else they need.”

Graham says he’s chaperoned people to Sydney when they’ve needed to go, because they find it difficult to handle crowds.

“We’ve got other guys who are just struggling with civilian life in general,” he says.

Sometimes the referrals provided

by WSOs can be profound.

Mathews relays the story of a 73-year-old Malaya and Vietnam veteran receiving treatment for cancer in Orange.

“A WSO happened to be in the same clinic in Orange and he overheard the man saying he had been in the Navy. The WSO went up and said, ‘Do you have compensation?’ The man replied he didn’t, and the WSO said, ‘You need

“For every suffering RSL member we help, I probably have another four veterans suffering who aren’t members.”

— Shaun Graham, Dubbo RSL sub-Branch President and WSO

to talk to Marc in Molong, because you’re entitled to something.’ So he referred him to me, we got in touch, and we sent off the claim to DVA to receive his Gold Card.

“The Gold Card meant he could receive the remainder of his cancer treatment in the private sector and he got reimbursed for accommodation and travel, and his wife was able to go with him into treatment. Sadly, he passed away a year and half after. But he did actually say when he got the card that it was one of the most rewarding feelings he’d had – that people went out of their way to help.”

When and how veterans served doesn’t merely change the types of compensation they can receive, it has a marked effect on whether they believe they deserve support at all. Graham says he sees this with both RSL members and non-members.

“For every suffering RSL member we help, I probably have another four veterans suffering who aren’t members,” says Mathews. “A lot of them served in the ‘Great Peace’ post-Vietnam and they don’t feel as though they should be in the RSL, let alone marching.”

Looking forward Why the first batch of volunteers have put their hands up to be WSOs is no mystery.

“The reason a lot of veterans joined Defence in the first place is they have an ingrained sense of camaraderie and a desire to serve,” says Pollard.

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To be sure, for many WSOs the position itself – and the help they provide to their community through it – is the goal. But for others, it’s a stepping stone towards being able to provide even more assistance by achieving accreditation through the ATDP pathways.

“I would say that of the people we had in our first training course, 50 per cent said they had their eye on that,” says Pollard.

The pipeline works the other way too. Those who’ve benefited from RSL NSW support, or from the veteran community in general, are volunteering.

“I have endless lists of people who’ve engaged with RSL NSW and who we’ve provided wellbeing support to, and now they’re starting to put their hands up to be WSOs,” adds Mathews.

“Everyone is starting to work together within the community to make everyone feel welcome and supported.”

— Marc Mathews, RSL NSW Compensation Advocate and WSO Trainer

Given the scope of any particular WSO’s responsibilities and their own limited time to devote to the role, the plan is for there to be crossover so that no sub-Branch is overwhelmed. WSOs will be able to reach any and all veterans living around the local area as part of what RSL NSW calls the ‘hub and spoke’ model of delivery.

If the project is to attain the success RSL NSW seeks, then it’s going to take a groundswell of veterans to fill in all the gaps.

Mathews, for one, is not concerned.

“We are a community of veterans and we are a culture,” he says.

“That’s what’s starting to kick in.

Everyone is working together within the community to make others feel welcome and supported.” rslnsw.org.au

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28 Membership Current Defence personnel at Sydney’s ANZAC Day March.

FRESH CONNECTIONS The Wagga Wagga, City of Orange and Singleton RSL sub-Branches are busy nurturing relationships with their communities of serving personnel. Over time, this should see them serve a wider demographic.

Story Tess Durack

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Six Air Force personnel helped the Wagga Wagga RSL sub-Branch prepare for its first monthly BBQ event of the year.

WA G G A WA G G A Creating space Such is the reputation of its legendary sausage sizzle, and the acceptance of the sub-Branch as a fixture at so many of the garrison town’s events, that on the one occasion the Wagga Wagga RSL sub-Branch wasn’t involved in the Kapooka Christmas party, there were cries of “Where are the sub-Branch sausage sandwiches? They’re the best!”

“Fortunately, at the command level, we have a great relationship with the RAAF Wagga and Kapooka Army Base,” says Rod Cooper, President of the Wagga Wagga RSL sub-Branch. “They support us with commemoration services, and are very obliging and easy to work with.”

And the support goes both ways.

A monthly barbecue put on by the sub-Branch, for example, is a regular opportunity to connect with newer serving personnel.

“The RAAF base and Kapooka bring along their trainees to spend a couple of hours,” says Cooper.

“And we do a sausage sizzle each year for the Defence Member and Family Support organisation when they welcome new Defence families posted into the area.”

Last year saw the inaugural Spring Picnic in the Park, which further cemented the sub-Branch’s commitment to including the families of veterans and serving personnel.

“We worked with the Kapooka Community Group, RANCH and RSL LifeCare Veteran Services to welcome more than 170 people to our first picnic in the park with jumping castles, face painting, acrobats, coffee and ice cream,” says Cooper.

The sausage sizzle pops up again at the Kapooka preschool Christmas party, while regular lawn bowls bring together the over-18s.

It’s all part of making the sub-Branch visible in the community and helping veterans, serving personnel and their families to be aware the subBranch is there for them.

As to how much of this community presence translates into memberships is, says Cooper, hard to say. Though with a 12.5 per cent increase in membership over 2023, it can’t be hurting.

The challenge is to make membership appeal to a younger generation while still supporting older veterans.

“I’m still connected with all the people I served with in the Navy,” says Cooper. “But do younger people want the same connection, or do they just want to move on? I wish I knew the answer.”

It’s a challenge that Charlotte Webb, Manager of the RSL LifeCare Veteran Wellbeing Centre in Wagga Wagga, is also determined to help meet, and the sub-Branch and Wellbeing Centre often collaborate on events together.

“As a veteran, I understand how important it is to educate serving personnel about what the sub-Branch does and how it can support them,” explains Webb. “I know myself I didn’t have enough information about how I could have been involved earlier on, or that I could have included the kids more.

“We talk a lot with the veterans and serving members we support at the Wellbeing Centre about how helpful belonging to the sub-Branch can be. There’s not a lot of consistency in Defence life, and your local sub-Branch can help provide a feeling of stability.” »

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30 Membership

C IT Y O F O R A N G E Building partnerships “One of the big challenges is that a lot of the younger people don’t even know they’re entitled to join RSL NSW,” says Chris Colvin, President of the City of Orange RSL sub-Branch.

“They think they have to have served overseas to be considered a veteran, and that’s just not true. If you’ve been a Reservist, if you’ve worn a uniform for one day, you’re a veteran, and you’re welcome at the sub-Branch. And your family is welcome too – bring your kids, bring your partner.”

One of the most effective ways for the sub-Branch to get this message out has been through forging a relationship with the Commanding Officers and the Regimental Sergeant Majors attached to the 1/19 Royal NSW Regiment based in Orange.

“I first met with them just after COVID, and we decided to work together to raise awareness about the sub-Branch and what it can offer serving personnel now and when they finish their service,” says Colvin.

Jason Jackson, former RSM of the regiment, agrees.

“It’s critical that they know when they leave the service, they can still be part of a community that supports them,” he says.

Important also is the knowledge that a soldier doesn’t need to have ended their service to be able to call on a sub-Branch for support.

“One of the big challenges is that a lot of the younger people don’t even know they’re entitled to join RSL NSW.” — Chris Colvin

Chris Colvin, President of the City of Orange RSL sub-Branch.

“Having regular informal catch-ups with the sub-Branch committee means regiment leadership is aware of what resources are available and can properly refer soldiers who might be in need of those resources,” explains Jackson.

To further strengthen the sub-Branch’s connection with the local regiment, Colvin and his committee created the Perpetual Trophy to be awarded each year to the champion shot of the entire regiment.

“We have enough space for 20 plaques on it, so we’re locked in for at least 20 years!” laughs Colvin.

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The trophy is presented at the annual regimental dinner and, Jackson says, is recognised as a significant link between the subBranch and the regiment.

“It brings home the message that there’s a partnership between us.”

At 40, John Catterson is one of the youngest members of the City of Orange RSL sub-Branch and feels strongly that building these connections is key to helping veterans and serving members become more aware of what the sub-Branch offers.

As the sub-Branch’s Wellbeing Support Officer, he’s helped establish a fortnightly casual coffee club. “It’s not so much a recruiting tool as an opportunity to build connections with the community of veterans and give serving personnel a chance to check in if they want to.”

While Catterson respects that commemoration remains an essential role for the subBranch, he’s keen to see an equal focus on the wellbeing of younger veterans who might benefit from feeling better connected.

“I’m more concerned with looking forward than looking backwards,” he explains.

And doing that means showing serving personnel how subBranch membership provides the opportunity to keep contributing and to connect with valuable support services. »

4 TIPS FOR CONNECTING WITH SERVING PERSONNEL Ruth Rogers, Assistant Secretary at Singleton RSL sub-Branch, comes from a military family and has lived and worked in Singleton for 35 years.

“The Vietnam veterans came home to so little positive acknowledgement, and that pain carries on today,” says Rogers.

“Let’s not allow that to happen with another generation.”

She shares her advice for how sub-Branches can further build their connection with serving personnel and younger veterans:

Recognise and honour veterans from more recent campaigns, including those in Iraq, Timor-Leste and Afghanistan.

Conduct a local Middle East Area of Operations commemoration on 11 July to show younger veterans their service will never be forgotten.

Acknowledge National Peacekeepers’ Day on 14 September to remember the sacrifice and service of the tens of thousands of Australians who have served as members of peacekeeping forces.

Invite younger veterans to lay a wreath on ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day so they feel those days are for them also.

“It’s not about how many people show up to an event,” says Rogers.

“It’s about representation and building trust with all veterans and serving personnel, and with their families.”

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32 Membership

SINGLETON Engaging the community When Mary-Anne Holland, who is a serving Warrant Officer, became President of the Singleton RSL sub-Branch one year ago, she started by establishing a committee in which each position was held by both an older and a younger veteran or partner of a veteran.

“It means there’s a font of knowledge and governance experience that is passed on to the younger member, who typically has the IT and communications know-how that we need to get our message out,” explains Holland.

Moreover, she points out, it widens the pool of possible members to have representation from different generations.

“If someone brings one new person to an event or committee meeting, that’s one person we didn’t have before.”

This recognition of Singleton as a network of potential connections encourages Holland and her team’s focus on engaging meaningfully with the community at every opportunity.

“You have to know and be involved with your community,” she says. “Meet with all the other service providers and community organisations so you can share ideas, collaborate and crosspollinate. Share your schedules with other ESOs so you don’t double up on events and can be present at each other’s activities.”

A school engagement activity marking Remembrance Day in Singleton.

Being so thoroughly integrated with the community also gives the sub-Branch an opportunity to reach serving personnel or veterans who are part of other organisations but haven’t yet connected with their sub-Branch.

“It helps spread the word that your sub-Branch is active and engaged.

If people don’t know you and what you’re doing, then why would they reach out?

“We have a strong presence in the community and are always visible at commemorations and other events. We’ve built trust and rapport, which means people feel more comfortable calling me for a quiet conversation or reaching out on behalf of someone else.

Singleton RSL sub-Branch President Mary-Anne Holland is a serving Warrant Officer.

Secretary Trevor Stewart recalls years when younger veterans didn’t want to march on ANZAC Day because they were alienated from a sub-Branch they felt didn’t value their service equally to that of the older veterans.

“Inviting younger veterans to be involved, lay a wreath or take part in a ceremony honouring their service was crucial to connecting with them and building trust,” says Stewart.

“The tradition is still really important. So it’s not about changing our values, it’s about changing and modernising how we deliver on them.”

“It might take a few months, but eventually they’ll come to an event or a meeting.”

And demonstrating to serving personnel that the sub-Branch is there for them means resources can be accessed or support offered before a crisis arises.

DOWNLOAD free marketing materials to use when organising your sub-Branch’s next community event.

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Join RSL NSW No fees, simple sign-up, open to serving members and veterans There should be no barrier for any current serving member or veteran of the ADF to join RSL NSW. That’s why we’ve made membership fee-free.

Members receive: A membership badge Reveille magazine Access to RSL services and support Connection to community Mateship and connection to others who have served Opportunity to volunteer and support veterans and coordinate commemorations

Join instantly now.

Scan code to learn more

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34 Sub-Branch news

BALGOWLAH-SEAFORTH-CLONTARF

SPORT, RECREATION AND A SAUSAGE SIZZLE Balgowlah-Seaforth-Clontarf RSL sub-Branch is steaming ahead with its schedule of activities organised as part of the RSL NSW Sport & Recreation Program.

More than 20 people enjoyed a morning wellbeing walk from Clontarf to the Spit Bridge and

back, before tucking into a sausage sizzle meal in the park.

“Well done to John Quick for organising the walk,” the subBranch posted on Facebook.

Credit also went to Dave O’Brien for doing such a great job cooking the BBQ breakfast for those in attendance.

A sausage sizzle was just one of the highlights of a recent day out for BalgowlahSeaforthClontarf RSL sub-Branch members.

FIND a Sport & Recreation Program event near you.

WINGHAM

FROM GYM TO SWIMMING POOL

The Wingham RSL subBranch made getting active in a social setting one of its New Year’s resolutions with the return of its interactive gym program.

The sub-Branch is encouraging members, their families and veterans in the local area to get together at Body Strength Health & Fitness Wingham.

The sub-Branch also boasts a self-driven summer lap swimming challenge, whereby members can start counting their laps alongside other members.

These events follow the recent unveiling of a time capsule in Wingham, a historic occasion of which the sub-Branch was proud to be part.

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Submit your sub-Branch news and images news@rslnsw.org.au

35

ERMINGTON | NOWRA

YARD CLEANUP FOR VETERANS IN NEED

The National Centre for Veterans’ Healthcare (NCVH) has facilitated another impactful collaboration to benefit its veteran clients.

The NCVH, working with volunteers from Disaster Relief Australia, recently organised yard cleanups for veterans living in Ermington and Nowra.

The veterans were connected to these services by RSL NSW Liaison Officer Bronte Pollard.

“Words can’t accurately describe the impact of this combined effort,” he explained.

AUXILIARY

GIFT HAMPERS FOR DEFENCE Malabar RSL Auxiliary Coordinator Thelma Gardner joined volunteers from other RSL subBranches at Randwick Barracks to pack gift hampers for Defence personnel overseas.

The volunteers were joined by Matt Thistlethwaite MP, Assistant Minister for Defence and Veterans’ Affairs.

STATEWIDE

VETERANS’ LAWN BOWLS ORGANISATION COMPETES AT NATIONAL LEVEL

LEARN MORE about how Bronte Pollard connects veterans with services and support in their local community, including RSL NSW sub-Branches.

The yard cleanup efforts have made a lasting impression.

Veterans across NSW are joining forces as part of the NSW RSL Lawn Bowls Association.

The organisation consists entirely of former or current serving individuals who are members of RSL NSW. Veterans as far north as Yamba and as far south as

Howlong are part of the association, which boasts approximately 800 members in total.

The NSW RSL Lawn Bowls Association competes in an annual tournament against other states, which is usually held around ANZAC Day. rslnsw.org.au

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36 Sub-Branch news

GOSFORD

CENOTAPH RESTORED IN TIME FOR CENTENARY

Who doesn’t love a good before and after photo?

The Gosford Cenotaph has undergone a stunning restoration bringing new life to this historic landmark – and just in time for a momentous milestone.

The restoration was supported by the Gosford RSL sub-Branch, which had been awarded three Community War Memorials Fund (CWMF) grants

from 2021 to 2023 ahead of the cenotaph’s centenary this year.

The sandstone war memorial, which is located in Gosford Memorial Park, was designed by famed architect and WWI veteran Gordon Samuel Keesing in 1923 and was later unveiled on ANZAC Day in 1924.

Two honour rolls, one for each world war, adorn its sides alongside an inscription.

“There was lots of laughter and many stories told.”

The Gosford Cenotaph before and after the restoration.

BEFORE

HIGH TEA IN MANILLA Manilla RSL Auxiliary Coordinator Sue Grant and member Janet Boyce hosted a high tea for their special guests from Legacy: Grace Franks, Enid Rampling, Denise Willson, Jo Cruickshank, Joyce Forward and Lynne Martin.

“The ladies lunched on macaroons, scones, butterscotch cake, chocolate strawberries, finger sandwiches, potted tea and a drop of pink bubbles,” explained Grant.

“There was lots of laughter and many stories told – it was a most enjoyable [and] memorable day.”

AFTER APPLICATIONS for the next round of CWMF grants have closed, but to keep an eye on future rounds, use the QR code. Grants of up to $10,000 are available.

BEFORE

AUXILIARY

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

READ THE LATEST Auxiliary news in the monthly Auxiliary newsletter. rslnsw.org.au

34-37 ReveilleV107_Mar24_Sub-Branch news.indd 36

20/2/2024 10:45 am

FORD MUSTANG HIGH PERFORMANCE STYLE

• Officially licensed • Spectacular Ford Mustang images • Quality crafting in 5 sizes Capturing the traffic-stopping good looks of the original Pony car, the “Ford Mustang Hoodie” is a spectacular combination of power and functionality. It offers you comfort and versatility in a go-anywhere design you’ll be proud to wear. Handcrafted in an easy-care, cotton-blend knit, the hoodie showcases a dynamic Ford Mustang logo on the back, Ford Mustang-inspired patches on the sleeves and the official Ford Mustang logo on the chest.

A lined hood with contrasting drawstring tippets, ribbed cuffs and hem and roomy front pockets add the perfect finishing touch.

PAY NOTHING NOW YES! Please reserve the “Ford Mustang Hoodie” for me as described in this advertisement. I understand I need pay nothing now. I have indicated my size below:

❏ M (38”-40”)

❏ XXL (50”-52”)

❏ XXXL (54 – 56)

YES. Please accept myRESPOND order for the Daughter, Wherever Life Takes PLEASE PROMPTLY

You Musical Egg. I need send no money now. I will be billed with shipment.

Need more than one? Please indicate quantity:

Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms ____ First Name: ____________________________ Surname:_______________________________________________

Not available in stores. Order now!

Address: _______________________________________________

Available in 5 men’s sizes, M – 3XL, you won’t find this officially licensed design anywhere else. It’s available only from The Bradford Exchange for just 3 easy instalments of $49.99 or $149.97, plus $14.99 postage and handling, backed by our 365-day guarantee. To reserve your hoodie, send no money now. Just return the coupon indicating your size or go online today at www.bradford.com.au/134479

____________________________________ Postcode: __________

SCAN THE CODE TO ORDER NOW! For Christmas delivery, place your order with us by: Non-Personalised : Eastern Seaboard: Monday 18th December, Regional: Thursday 14th December Personalised: Friday 10th November Ford Motor Company Trademarks and Trade Dress used under license to The Bradford Exchange Ltd. ©2023 The Bradford Exchange Ltd. A.B.N. 13 003 159 617 478-SHA04 Promotion code: 134479

34-37 ReveilleV107_Mar24_Sub-Branch news.indd 37

Email: _________________________________________________ Phone:_______________________ Signature: __________________

RESERVE YOURS TODAY – 3 WAYS TO SECURE YOUR ORDER 1. MAIL: The Bradford Exchange, Reply Paid 3344 Parramatta NSW 2124 (no stamp required) 2. PHONE: (02) 9841 3311 Lines open 8am – 5pm AEDT Mon to Fri 3. ONLINE: www.bradford.com.au/134479 quoting promotion code:

134479

Please allow between 2-10 business days for delivery. All sales subject to product availability and reservation acceptance. Credit criteria may apply. Our privacy policy is available online at www.bradford.com.au. You must be over 18 years old to apply. From time to time, we may allow carefully screened companies to contact you. If you would prefer not to receive such offers, please tick this box. ❏

19/2/2024 2:01 pm

38 Last post

“LEST WE FORGET” Remembering the service and bravery of those who have served our country.

rslnsw.org.au

38-41 ReveilleV107_Mar24_Last post.indd 38

19/2/2024 2:02 pm

39

NAVY ANDREWS, AJ R96010 BALFOUR, BDW 46098 BAYLISS, EJ R49423 BELLMAN, DW R118393 BUCKLEY, EB R57022 BURDORF, TA O1477 CLARK, GA R58546 COOPS, BI S9475 CROFTON, R R43439 DAWES, RM 5355 DULHUNTY, PJ R46885 EDGAR, AJ R64512 FILMER, R R57385 FITZGERALD, FB R93404 HARRIS, TF R45799 HARROLD, BR R56950 HARRY, JRL NS2044 HIGGINS, RJ R57867 HOPKINS, SJ R109198 KEATING, N R39938 KENNEDY, WR A41066 LIPMAN, NM R53990 MAYES, GJ S121971 MCKAY, J R114545 MCLEOD, R R54146 MILLER, GG S9657 MILLS, AS 115297 MILLSTEED, RK W104250 NETTLE, DS R39000 NORRIS, B 35895 ROBERTSON, WJ R28037 SAUNDERS, GE R50977 SENNITT, PD R130809 SIMM, PC R44549 STEWART, RC R62160 UNICOMB, LJ 38407 WATTS, FE R95485 WELSH, PE R105317

WHITING, RJ S123685 WILLEY, AS R65049 WILLIAMS, TD S117123 WINNER, TJ R63854

ARMY ADAMS, EC NX178491 ANSPACH, DJ 48569 ASTRIDGE, PC 2243082 BAKER, BJ 2786232 BAKER, BF R54211 BARNETT, LV 210819 BARTLETT, IR 2783918 BEUZEVILLE, PJ 2784709 BROWN, KR 3793725 BUCKLAND, C 2786873 CALLOW, EW 5/1143 CARROLL, OM 52680 CHILDS, MJ 213709 CLARKE, TJE NX167771 CONNOR, CF 242839 DASS, PS 5717279 DAVIES, DW 215419 DAVIS, PT 219991 DAVIS, PE 2798811 DEANE, M 2786601 DIXON, DP NX178982 DORSMAN, HJ NX85061 DOVER, WT 42111 DOWD, A 41772 DRISCOLL, PJ NX206989 DUNKERLEY, CM 8617011 ECHIN, RA NX152899 EDWORTHY, IJ 2745212 EVANS, FW 2116393 FISHER, GH 2267007 GATEHOUSE, BH 224676 GEBHARDT, RF QX42177 GIBSON, D 2189680

GLENNON, JE 2791975 GOUGH, A 2105130 GREEN, EH NX164944 GROVE, DJ 2798658 HAGERTY, AG 226903 HALL, TE 2243018 HANSEN, GC 2792902 HANSFORD, DN NX167490 HAYDON, RE 2/713840 HINTON, HG NX205583 HOBAN, JT 2782583 HOBBS, SJ N437424 HOPE, ME 2136847 HUMPHREYS, JW 1/7008 HUNTER, JE 212681 JAQUES, MK 2793529 JENKINS, DR 46634 JOHNS, RJ 1/4839 JOHNSON, SJ 219928 JORDAN, LJ 35447 KAMINSKI, LS 216912 KENT, AJ NX190034 KIDMAN, GW 318311 KING, KD 2787725 LE BARS, MF 3/11468 LEWIS, SG NX172832 MCBRIDE, MJ 219567 MCCREADIE, GK 235174 MCDONALD, GT 2794153 MCGREGOR, CJ N318662 MCKENZIE, AD 214916 MCLENNAN, LJ 27861 MCMAHON, G 1410761 MILNE, JR NX181043 MINGAY, COS NX116889 NOBILIA, B 2794555 NOBLE, RG 2782740 NORRIS, HS NX118914 NORTON, HR NX148517 O’BRIEN, FW NX500555 OLIVE, AL 255847 »

rslnsw.org.au

38-41 ReveilleV107_Mar24_Last post.indd 39

19/2/2024 2:02 pm

40 Last post

OLIVER, RA 2750919 O’SULLIVAN, JA QX47438 OWENS, FJ 4411098 PAGET, LK 218908 PARK, FW NX101473 PASSMORE, A 2782840 PEEL-DAVIS, TN NX201156 PERRY, RW 2/400653 PETTET, RA 2/13075 PLICHOTA, B 2784047 PRACY, RR NX174650 PRITCHARD, HJ NX171030 PRIVETT, GR 2790032 PROSPER, EA NX205808 PULLEN, RT 236474 RALSTON, GC 2/400615 RANDALL, CC 229306 ROBERTS, AJ 224637 ROBERTS, P 2104532 ROBINSON, AL 2781512 ROSS, GM 2785611 ROSS, JM NX201053 RYAN, J 214690 RYAN, RA NX206525 SANDERSON, G 2784935 SCHWILK, OR NX172531 SCOTT, GD 2787588 SEARS, JR 2781578 SHANAHAN, CJ 214331 SHEARIM, RV NX180133 SIMS, J 187258 SMITH, JB CHX114795 SNART, BJM 3/2200 STEWART, VJ 218252 STEWART, L 56962 STIEN, AWJ NX203689 STIFF, KA 219515

TAYLOR, MR 2788172 TERREY, AS 2147650 WALSH, TM 216437 WARWICK, CR 227498 WATSON, TE 2791456 WEBER, RS NX119717 WESTGATE, DP 219648 WHITE, AW 214183 WICKERSON, NJ 14594 WILLIAMS, DM 234568 YEAMAN, SW NX115652 YOUNG, RG NX139585 ZALUNARDO, D 276738

RAAF

GIBSON, J A228672 HALL, DB A225244 HARDGE, HA A121179 HELBY, VE 440073 INCH, N 432516 JOHNSON, RW A216277 JOICE, KB 440448 KEOHANE, KF 137748 KINCH, HJ 133011 KRANTZ, VT 66419 LEWIS, BL L513198 MANNING, TC A223444 MARTIN, PA 139017 MASCORD, NS 165011 MATHEWS, RK 428998 MCHUTCHISON, DH A224084

ASH, DW 168102 BOYCE, GM 119824 BRADY, JW A14734 BRUCE, K 165415 CHALKER, JE A220831 DOWNIE, A 156270 ECKFORD, GJ A59524

MCKENNA, PM 85563 MCNAMARA, RN A25038 MOHR, R A24722 NEWMAN, GJ A112235 O’KEEFFE, TE A310825 PENNELL, JB L230625 PLOWMAN, DR 72930

POYNER, LJ 132899 PRENDERGAST, JJ 130217 RILEY, GE A227715 SCARD, FW 67436 SCHULTIES, RL 36293 SCOULLER, BS 445259 SHORT, M 4189075 SULLIVAN, CW 445985 SWAN, AG 63470 THOMAS, KJ 443218 THORNTON, EI 174727 TRAVES, IS 433481 WAYE, EJ 444162 WELLING, AP 8161987 WILLIAMS, SD A25305 WINLEY, AJ A221032 WOOLLETT, MK 74341

AUSTRALIAN MARINER SHARDLOW, SM

The information contained in the Last Post has been provided by the DVA and RSL members.

Where possible we have attempted to provide all service details. We regret any missing information.

rslnsw.org.au

38-41 ReveilleV107_Mar24_Last post.indd 40

19/2/2024 2:02 pm

Lest We Forget A delicately hand-crafted brooch honouring those who served our nation courageously

Hand-applied 18-carat gold plate Genuine Sparkling Crystals

Arrives in a handsome presentation case with a Certificate of Authenticity

An elegant symbol of life’s fragility, the poppy makes a fitting tribute to those who laid down their lives in service of our great nation. Now you can honour a loved one who served with the “Flanders Fields Poppy Brooch”, a tasteful fine jewellery exclusive from The Bradford Exchange.

A moving first-of-a-kind design Inspired by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae’s epic poem In Flanders Fields, this stunning treasure brings its poppies to life again to honour our diggers in a truly meaningful way. Hand-applied 18-carat gold-plate accents the finelycrafted brooch to create a truly opulent look. Six radiant crystals rest in the centre of the bloom which is hand-enamelled in red to capture the lifelike vibrancy of the poppy. Wear this elegant brooch next to your heart and know that our diggers will be remembered always. The brooch is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity reproducing McCrae’s In Flanders Fields poem as a beautiful finishing touch.

Superb Value. Satisfaction Guaranteed.

This exclusive brooch is exceptional value at just $149.97, payable in three easy, interest-free instalments of $49.99, plus $14.99 postage and handling and backed by our 365-day guarantee. This touching Anzac tribute is only available from The Bradford Exchange for a limited time, so don’t miss out. To reserve your brooch, send no money now. Just return the Reply Paid coupon or go online today at www.bradford.com.au/134478

Shown larger than actual size of 7cm in length

PAY NOTHING NOW YES! Please reserve the “Flanders Fields Poppy

Brooch” for me as described in this advertisement.

I understand I need pay nothing now.

YES. Please accept myPLEASE order for the Daughter, Wherever Life Takes RESPOND PROMPTLY

You Musical Egg. I need send no money now. I will be billed with shipment.

Need more than one? Please indicate quantity:

Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms ____ First Name: ____________________________ Surname:_______________________________________________

Address: _______________________________________________ ____________________________________ Postcode: __________ Email: _________________________________________________ Phone:_______________________ Signature: __________________

RESERVE YOURS TODAY – 3 WAYS TO SECURE YOUR ORDER 1. MAIL: The Bradford Exchange, Reply Paid 3344 Parramatta NSW 2124 (no stamp required) 2. PHONE: (02) 9841 3311 Lines open 8am – 5pm AEDT Mon to Fri

SCAN THE CODE TO ORDER NOW! ©2023 The Bradford Exchange Ltd. A.B.N. 13 003 159 617 503-SAN51.01 Promotion code: 134478 For Christmas delivery, place your order with us by: Non-Personalised : Eastern Seaboard: Monday 18th December, Regional: Thursday 14th December Personalised: Friday 10th November

38-41 ReveilleV107_Mar24_Last post.indd 41

3. ONLINE: www.bradford.com.au/134478 quoting promotion code:

134478

Please allow between 2-10 business days for delivery. All sales subject to product availability and reservation acceptance. Credit criteria may apply. Our privacy policy is available online at www.bradford.com.au. You must be over 18 years old to apply. From time to time, we may allow carefully screened companies to contact you. If you would prefer not to receive such offers, please tick this box. q

19/2/2024 2:02 pm

© SAM RUTTYN, THE SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

42 Snapshot

NSW FIRE BRIGADES RSL SUB-BRANCH OPENS ITS DOORS 23 DECEMBER 2023 More than 400 current and former Defence personnel who work for Fire and Rescue NSW now have access to an enhanced support network as RSL NSW re-establishes the NSW Fire Brigades RSL sub-Branch to support veterans in the fire and rescue community. The sub-Branch was first formed in the 1920s following WWI, when its main purpose was to facilitate repatriation and medical support.

rslnsw.org.au

42-44 ReveilleV107_Mar24_Snapshot.indd 42

19/2/2024 2:03 pm

Fund the future Commemoration. Mateship. Advocacy.

As vital now as they were in 1916.

As important now as they will be in 2036.

“My Future Fund experience showed me the value of alignment of purpose with the pattern of investing and spending to achieve an organisation’s objective.”

The future of RSL NSW is not assured. Mobilising the combined resources of sub-Branches is critical to supporting veterans and their families, and ensuring the RSL brand is recognised and respected by the whole community, so the community knows who we are, what we stand for and what we do.

That’s why we have launched the RSL NSW Strategic Plan which includes a new funding model for the future. Colloquially called the ‘Pooled’ funding model, it has two parts: the Aggregated Investment Management Service and the Veteran Support Fund.

Invest in the future of the League in NSW.

WB21266_RSL-House-Ad_Reveille_v4.indd 1 42-44 ReveilleV107_Mar24_Snapshot.indd 43

David Murray AO, is the Inaugural Chair of the Australian Government Future Fund Board of Guardians.

David acted in an advisory capacity to the selection process of the competitive market tender. He provided insight into the assessment of risk, governance, and other qualitative factors on the selection of the preferred investment manager for RSL NSW and its sub-Branches.

Please contact Patrick Regan at Morgan Stanley on (02) 9775 2902 Scan the QR code to read about the funding model on the RSL NSW website.

22/2/22 12:45 pm 19/2/2024 2:03 pm

Senior living to make you smile

RSL LifeCare's warm and dedicated team will bring a smile to your face. As a well known and trusted leader in providing high quality personal Home Care, Retirement Living and Residential Aged Care in over 60 sites throughout NSW and the ACT, our team helps create proud communities, living their best lives.

For over 110 years, we have also been proudly serving veterans, providing comprehensive

and veteran-centric services aimed at supporting the wellbeing of veterans and their families.

So if you, or someone you know is looking for more information about a little extra help at home, senior living options or even veteran support services, look no further and contact our team today!

1300 232 564 rsllifecare.org.au 42-44 ReveilleV107_Mar24_Snapshot.indd 44

19/2/2024 2:03 pm