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Download PDF version of the Sub-Branch Signal

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President’s Update

As ANZAC Day comes around for 2024, I would like to open by thanking each and every one of you for your tireless commitment in bringing this day together. ANZAC Day remains etched in the soul of Australia. The RSL continues to hold the role of leading our community on this day, an incredible responsibility we all share. I am certain you are all going above and beyond, again, and I am truly humbled by everyone’s commitment and effort. Thank you in advance for what I am certain will be another very successful ANZAC Day.

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Key to our RSL is providing an environment that welcomes all veterans, families and the wider community. The role of the Board of RSL WA is to oversee this, to make sure that the League in Western Australia provides not only what we expect of ourselves but what our community expects of us. Should this standard not be met, the Board has a responsibility to act. This has been the case with the Nollamara Sub-Branch, where the Board and Executive have acted by withdrawing the charter in accordance with our rules. I want to reassure members that the outcome sought is the re-establishment of the Nollamara Sub-Branch with stable and accountable leadership and operations.

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However, this has been complicated by the role played by the Veterans Motorcycle Club. Many members of the Veterans Motorcycle Club are also members of the former Sub-Branch. RSLWA has worked very hard to engage productively to resolve differences. This has not been successful and as such RSLWA will commence formal legal action. Further complicating this matter has been the public commentary run by both the former Sub-Branch and Veterans Motorcycle Club. This commentary has consistently used half-truths and falsehoods to disparage the League. I welcome all opportunities to outline facts in response.

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The Board sought to resolve this matter prior to ANZAC Day to enable a service to be held at the Nollamara Sub-Branch. However, the Veterans Motorcycle club efforts have obfuscated the situation and not allowed this to happen. I would like to recognise the Nollamara Sports and Recreation Club who have stepped in to host a morning service, with RSLWA providing advice and funding. I would like to stress that the Board is committed to re-establishing the Nollamara Sub-Branch. For any enquires regarding the Nollamara Sub-Branch please contact admin@rslwa.org.au.

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I am looking forward to State Congress this year. A revised program seeks to provide greater benefit to members who are travelling and opportunities for mateship. I would like to encourage Sub-Branches to put forward motions for consideration to allow for a fulsome discussion on matters impacting the League now and for generations to come.

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Duncan Anderson‍

State President, RSLWA

CEO’s Update

To enable us to achieve our shared vision of helping WA veterans and their families to thrive, we need to effectively engage with our whole community. So, identifying new and improved ways to do this has been a real focus. A great example is the Family and Mateship Event that RSLWA is running for the first time ever after the ANZAC Day March through Perth City. From 10:00am to 4:00pm, veterans, families and the whole public are invited to Langley Park for military displays, kids’ rides, entertainment, a licensed bar area and food trucks.

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Housing availability shortages are a significant challenge – including for veterans. Generously supported by Mrs Gina Rinehart AO and Hancock Prospecting, RSLWA and RAAFA WA are teaming up to deliver nine units as affordable short-term accommodation for veterans. With the renovation of the unit block well underway, we’ll be seeking expressions of interest for tenants at Sir Valston Hancock House from mid this year.

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In key State Branch staff movements, we farewell outgoing Chief Operating Officer Allison Stephens as she now looks to apply her skills and experience in another organisation. We are extremely grateful for the many achievements Allison has led, including our successful bid to lead delivery of the south west metropolitan Veterans’ and Families’ Hub, with $5m of federal funding support. And we welcome Army veteran Janine Gardner to the team in her role as the Manager of that hub, which will open in the second half of this year. This will significantly boost our engagement with the significant number of veterans who live in and around the Rockingham area.

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Vince Connelly

CEO, RSLWA

ANZAC Day 2024

Keep up with ANZAC Day updates online at rslwa.org.au/events/anzac-day

For ANZAC Day enquiries, contact events@rslwa.org.au

All-Abilities Sunset Service 

Location: Flame of Remembrance, Kings Park, Perth WA

Date: Wednesday, 24 April 2024

Time: 4:45 pm - 5:40 pm

On the eve of ANZAC Day 2024, RSLWA will be holding an inclusive Sunset Service to remember and reflect on the brave men and women who have made so many sacrifices. This ceremony, with additional accessibility measures including audio description, wheelchair access, Auslan, low sensory facilities, ACROD parking, and DADAA assistance is open to all who wish to share the sunset and commemorate ANZAC Day.

Dawn Service 

Location: State War Memorial, Kings Park, Perth WA

Date: Thursday, 25 April 2024

Time: 5:30 am - 7:00 am

On ANZAC Day 2024, thousands of Western Australians will gather at sunrise to remember those who lost their lives in conflict. In the half-light people of all ages and backgrounds will listen to inspiring words, sing, and pause in silence to reflect and remember the sacrifices made by our brave men and women. The Dawn Service is open to all who wish to join together in the beauty of Kings Park, share the sunrise, and commemorate ANZAC Day.

Gunfire Breakfast 

Location: Government House Gardens, St Georges Terrace Perth

Date: Thursday, 25 April 2024

Time: 7:00 am – 9:00 am

On ANZAC Day 2024, the Government House Gardens will host a barbeque breakfast. Connect with the WA veteran community at the annual ANZAC Day Gunfire Breakfast before heading to St Georges Terrace for the March.

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The Gunfire Breakfast tradition dates back to the 1890’s, where ‘gunfire’ referred to an early morning mix of rum and black tea, to provide a dash of courage before a day on the battlefield. The concoction started with English Army Soldiers and was quickly adopted by the Australian and New Zealand soldiers. RSLWA in collaboration with the Rotary Club will provide breakfast for a gold coin donation.

The March

Location: St Georges Terrace, Perth WA

Date: Thursday, 25 April 2024

Time: 9:00 am – 11:00 am

With more than 62,000 veterans in Western Australia, the ANZAC Day March in the City of Perth is a chance to recognise our service people as they march alongside their mates in a show of camaraderie and commemoration. ANZAC Day marches are held around the country, from the smallest towns to our largest.

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Join us as we acknowledge the families of service men and women who have served and died in all conflicts and peacekeeping operations. The public is encouraged to come and watch the March and pay their respects to the service people marching and those they represent.

Family & Mateship Event 

Location: Langley Park

Date: Thursday 25 April 2024

Time: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

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Journey on to Langley Park to relax with family and friends after the ANZAC Day March. This is a free entry event open to veterans and the wider public. Enjoy live music, food vans, drinks, and activities for children. This family-friendly event presents interactive military vehicles and commemorative activities for all ages.

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Len Hall Tribute Match

Location: Optus Stadium

Date: Saturday, 27 April 2024

Time: 5:30 pm

The Len Hall Tribute Game has been a very important element in the Fremantle Dockers fixtures for the last 27 years. The Game is named in honour of Western Australia’s last Gallipoli veteran Len Hall (1987 – 1999), a member of the 10th Light Horse Regiment.

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On behalf of the Fremantle Football Club, The Department of Veterans Affairs would like to invite veterans to attend and participate in the Len Hall Tribute Game.

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Veterans attending the game will be asked to participate in a parade around the oval and/or to stand with a team member during the opening ceremony.

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To secure your spot at the game, please email  DCWA@dva.gov.au. Please note tickets are limited to the first 100 veterans who respond.

WAFL ANZAC Game

Location: Mineral Resources Oval, Lathlain

Date: Thursday, 25 April 2024

Time: Bounce down 1:10pm ANZAC Day Commemoration 3:50pm

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The WA Football Commission would like to offer free tickets to RSL Members for this week’s ANZAC game, Perth Demons vs. East Perth at Mineral Resources Oval in Lathlain.

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Book your tickets and use the code RSL.

MEMBERSHIP EARLY BIRD WINNERS

We would like to congratulate the winners of our membership renewal promotion. Your early commitment has not only secured your spot in our community but also earned you a $100 Coles Myer gift card. And the winners are:

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James Smithers – City of Mandurah Sub-Branch

Olwyn Banks – City of Perth Sub-Branch

Barry Lehmann – North Beach Sub-Branch

Edward Thompson – Port Kennedy Sub-Branch

John Myles – Joondalup City Sub-Branch

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ANZAC Appeal 

RSLWA held its annual ANZAC Appeal on Friday, 12 April 2024in the Perth CBD. The ANZAC Appeal has been running for more than 100 years and is one of RSLWA’s most important fundraisers. We collect funds that enable us to deliver essential support services to veterans and their families living in Western Australia. It was a fun day for RSLWA staff and volunteers working alongside our ADF volunteers to collect these vital funds. The day was filled with moments of connection as people of all ages came together to show their support. Thank you to everyone who gave their time on the day.

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RSL Active

Your gateway to connecting with fellow veteran families across Western Australia, offering an array of exciting events and activities tailored just for you. RSLWA is on a mission to simplify your journey back to civilian life by creating opportunities for you and your family to bond with like-minded people.

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Meet-up at Kings Park to do ‘Blue Hour’ and night photography

Location: State War Memorial, Kings Park

Date: Saturday, 11 May 2024

Time: 4:30pm

Bring along some drinks, snacks and a sense of humour and learn how to do ‘Blue Hour’ and night photography at Kings Park overlooking the city.

Hydrotherapy Class with Avanti Physiotherapy

Location: Avanti Physiotherapy, 3 Doncaster Road, Mirrabooka

Date: Wednesday 1 May, 8 May and 15 May 2024

Time: 9:00am

Guided by physiotherapist, Frank Furfaro, the hydrotherapy classes will focus on promoting general good health, range of movement, lower and upper limb strength and cardiovascular fitness through water-based exercise.

Golf Day at Wembley Golf Course

Location: Wembley Golf Course

Date: Friday, 17 May 2024

Time: 9:00am

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Join the RSL Active Golf Day for a fun 18-hole game on Friday, 17 May 2024 at Wembley Golf Course.

Wheelwork at ClayMake Studio

Location: ClayMake Studio, Maylands

Date: Saturday, 4 May 2024

Time: 1:30pm

Try wheelwork at ClayMake Studio! The class is suitable for total beginners and will be guided by an instructor.

Mindfulness Sessions Online

Location: Online

Date: Wednesday, 22 May and 19 June 2024

Time: 6:30pm

RSL Active will be hosting mindfulness sessions online each month to help veterans self-regulate through guided breathing and meditation exercises.

Veteran Yoga at Drop in Centre

Location: Heathridge Community Centre

Date: Tuesday, 30 April

Time: 9:00am

Join a six-week beginner-friendly yoga program which provides a gentle introduction to the fundamental principles and postures of yoga.

Sailing On

Location: South of Perth Yacht Club, 1 Coffee Point Road, Applecross

Date: Monday and Wednesdays every week

Time: 9:00am

RSL Active has teamed up with Sailing On to provide opportunities for RSLWA members, their families, veterans and ADF members to learn new skills and be part of a team through the repair and sailing of yachts.

Find out more and sign up for any of the above activities.

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EVENTS

Costco VIP Shopping Event

Location: Costco

Date: Saturday, 27 April 2024

Time: 8.30am

Costco Perth Airport would like to invite current Defence personnel, veterans and their family members to our VIP Shopping Event at 8:30am on Saturday, 27 April 2024.

Costco will open 1 hour early exclusively for those invited to this event to enjoy shopping at Costco plus a complimentary breakfast. This event is for both current Costco members and for those who are looking to sign up.

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Please bring the invitation and verification that you are/were Defence personnel or a family member of Defence personnel and show to staff at the entrance door. Verification could include a payslip, badge, veteran’s card etc. (something that indicates the person works in the field and includes that person's name).

For Defence personnel who join as new members at the membership desk during this event, you will receive a complementary $20 shop card that can instantly be redeemed on shopping that day.

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IODS Defence and Industry Dinner & The Better Together Ball

Location: BelleVue Ballroom, Level 3, Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre

Date: Thursday, 25 July 2024

Time: 6:30pm to 10:00pm

Tickets: $250

This year, the Better Together Ball will be held in collaboration with the IODS Defence and Industry Dinner.

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The Dinner will be held on the first night of the IODS conference on Thursday, 25 July 2024 and is an opportunity to network with senior representatives from defence, industry and government while supporting Western Australian veterans and their families.

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The Better Together Ball 2024 is presented in a partnership between RSLWA, Legacy WA and Police Legacy WA as a major fundraiser to support defence and police veterans and their families through advocacy and welfare.

Experience an evening of gourmet dining, conversation and entertainment all while helping to fundraise for an important cause.

For more information visit IODS.

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Royal Australian Navy Band Western Australia Covers Band Concert

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Location: The Paddington Ale House, Mt Hawthorn

Date: Sunday, 19 May 2024

Time: 1:00pm to 3:00pm

Join an enjoyable afternoon of music and community spirit! The Royal Australian Navy Band Western Australia will be performing a lively mix of cover songs to entertain you, all in support of the Mt Hawthorn Sub-Branch.

RSL Dawesville Golf Day

Location: The Cut Golf Course, Dawesville

Date: Thursday, 9 May 2024

Time: 12:30pm

Includes 4-ball, 18-hole Ambrose tournament (cart included) followed by buffet dinner with live music, special guests, silent auctions and raffles.

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$120 per person for golf & dinner

Current & Ex-Service Personnel $110

Dinner only $55

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For bookings contact Pip on 0411 030 766

‍State Congress 2024

Location: ANZAC House Veteran Central

Date: Friday 5 July and Saturday 6 July 2024

The RSLWA Annual State Congress is the premier event to promote our achievements in the preceding year and to present its future plans. A program guide has been sent out to all members.

FUNDRAISING

Mayday Campaign

The RSLWA Mayday campaign is dedicated to funding our vital veteran advocacy services. The aim of this vital service is to empower veterans to navigate the complex DVA claims system, eliminate backlogs and offer essential support to those who have served our country. The DVA claims system and backlog has been raised as an issue in the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide. The campaign will run from 1-31 May 2024 and watch this space for more information after ANZAC Day.

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GULF WAR SYNDROME STUDY

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Gulf War Syndrome, also referred to as Gulf War Illness (GWI) is used to refer to unexplained illnesses occurring in veterans of the Gulf War (1991). Symptoms of GWI include unexplainable fatigue, musculoskeletal pain, cognitive difficulties, and autonomic disturbances (cardiovascular & gastrointestinal in nature). The symptoms of GWI overlap with other fatigue-related illnesses. For example, Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) and long COVID.

The pathological mechanism of ME/CFS, GWI and long COVID remains unknown and there is currently no diagnostic test nor nationally recognised treatment. Immunological dysfunction is a consistent feature of fatigue-related illnesses, and many patients report onset following an infection or external exposures. Transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels have been implicated in the pathomechanism of ME/CFS, Long COVID, and GWI. Further, recent data suggests this channel provides a potential therapeutic target and may improve health outcomes.

This project aims to investigate the pathomechanism of ME/CFS, GWI, Long COVID patients and fatigue-related illnesses as potential diagnostic and therapeutic targets.

The following participants are being recruited:

GWI group: veterans of the 1991 Gulf War experiencing a range of persistent symptoms.

ME/CFS group: participants who have received a diagnosis of ME/CFS (where diagnosis was made using the CCC 2003 or ICC 2011 definitions).

PVS group: participants reporting chronic symptoms following a known viral infection but have not received a diagnosis of ME/CFS nor other medical explanation for the symptoms.

Long COVID group: participants meeting the World Health Organisation definition.

Control group: participants who report no health concerns.

The inclusion criteria are as follows:

Australian residents aged 18 to 65 years old

Non-smoker

No current diagnosis of serious chronic illness,e.g. autoimmune, cancer, cardiovascular, diabetes or primary psychiatric diseases

Not pregnant or breastfeeding

This study involves:

Completion of an online questionnaire; and

Donations of up to 84ml of blood for ion channel and immunological investigations; and/or

Attend MRI appointment at University of Queensland Neuroimaging Facility, St Lucia, Brisbane

Participants will receive a $25 Coles e-voucher and enter the draw to win $75, $100 and $150 Coles e-voucher drawn half-yearly.

If you are interested in participating, please contact ncned@griffith.edu.au or call on (07) 5678 9283.

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