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Download PDF version of the Sub-Branch Signal

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President’s Update

Congratulations to everyone involved in ANZAC Day 2024. All reports that I have received show increasing interest across the State. While positive weather certainly played a part, I am confident that the outstanding work being done throughout the League to increase engagement is starting to pay dividends. I would like to remind all Sub-Branches that there was a significant financial contribution from the Western Australian Government for ANZAC Day services this year. If there have been additional costs incurred, please let RSLWA HQ know and we will do our very best to cover them.

2024 marks 25 years since Australian forces landed on East Timor. RSLWA will commemorate this significant milestone with a service to be held at Kings Park. This service will recognise that this operation was Australian led. An evening function will be hosted by the Cottesloe Sub-Branch to bring veterans, their families and friends together to remember Australia’s largest peace keeping mission to date. I encourage all members to engage with their networks to promote and support this event.

State Congress will be held in July this year. There is a change to the format with presentations, awards and a social event on the Friday evening. Saturday will see Congress conducted with motions currently being considered by the Board. There are several matters that I will be raising in general business. The purpose of raising issues for discussion in this way is to gain the views of delegates on matters impacting the League. A brief paper will be released on these issues in the lead up to Congress so there will be time for you to discuss them with your members and prepare feedback in advance.

RSLWA hosted the Repatriation Commissioner and Secretary for DVA at ANZAC House. The discussion covered many topics with a focus on the Hubs, outcomes of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide and our collaboration with other ex-service organisations in Western Australia. It was noted by both the Commissioner and Secretary that there is a much higher level of cooperation in our State than elsewhere in Australia. Our collective hard work and focus on working together to support veterans and their families is being recognised.

Many of us were incredibly privileged to attend the consecration of the Battle of Crete War Memorial in Kings Park last weekend. For those able, I encourage you to visit this incredible memorial. The service was attended by Arthur Leggett OAM and a host of other dignitaries including the Governor, Premier and Ambassador to Greece. On behalf of RSLWA, I would like to sincerely congratulate the team working behind the scenes. Your unwavering passion and dedication to building the memorial was evidenced by a truly remarkable outcome.

As many of you are aware, the recruitment process is underway to replace the Chief Executive Officer as Vince was successful in his bid for preselection for the upcoming Federal election. We have received many strong applications and the Board is hopeful to be able to decide on a replacement in early June.

Thank you again for the amazing preparation and work across the State to commemorate our most important day. The personal commitment and professionalism demonstrated by everyone in the League continues to be truly humbling and does not go unrecognised.

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Duncan Anderson‍

State President, RSLWA

CEO’s Update

Throughout the State, RSLWA have again fulfilled our solemn duty as custodians of ANZAC Day commemorations. Whilst exact numbers are still being gathered, reports so far show significantly higher attendance numbers. Your efforts help us share the ANZAC spirit and its important principles of mateship, courage and service with all Western Australians.

To help deliver the exciting new federally funded Veterans’ and Families’ Hub in the South West Metropolitan area, RSLWA has recruited Janine Gardner as Hub Manager. As a veteran herself, and having worked in a veterans’ hub in Queensland, Janine will be instrumental in establishing this important new hub.

The tireless and essential work of our RSLWA advocates is being directly supported through a new DVA Claims Lodgement Assessment (CLA) pilot program. This sees experienced DVA delegates pairing with our RSLWA Advocates to jointly assist clients lodging their claims. Almost 200 claims have already been smoothly lodged. I extend my thanks to the City of Cockburn Sub-Branch for hosting the CLA program. To further help finance RSLWA advocacy services, the Mayday campaign has been launched, with a generous matched giving commitment already in place from Hancock Prospecting and Roy Hill.

For a fifth year, benefactor Ms Sarah Beale has provided 100 ANZAC Day hampers for veterans. Along with pantry staples and treats, each hamper contained a $50 Woolworths gift card and a handwritten letter from Sarah’s children thanking them for their service.

RSLWA and Working Spirit partnered recently to deliver another ‘Military to Civilian Career Summit’ at 10 Light Horse, Irwin Barracks. This helped employers access the wonderful skills and attitudes of veterans, and connected veterans to meaningful post-service jobs.

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‍Vince Connelly

CEO, RSLWA

ANZAC Day 2024

This year’s ANZAC Day commemorations in Western Australia were widely attended by veterans, families, and the wider community. Thank you to all volunteers, members, and Sub-Branches who worked to deliver these important events to recognise and commemorate service in war and war-like conflicts.

There were more than 90 ANZAC Day events this year throughout Western Australia. A full rundown of Sub-Branch events will be included in the upcoming June edition of the Listening Post. Sub-Branches will also receive a survey that will support further development of ANZAC Day activities for 2025. If you have additional feedback on ANZAC Day activities in your area, please share this with events@rslwa.org.au. So far North Beach RSL Sub-Branch reported an attendance of 20,000 at their event. The City of Cockburn RSL Sub-Branch has reported 7,000 attendees to their commemorative activities.

The ANZAC Day Dawn Service in King Park drew a significant crowd of around 30,000 people to commemorate at the State War Memorial on a crisp but clear Thursday morning. The service included a commemorative address from Mr James McMahon and readings from Ms Jenine Riches AM, Mr Philip White AMRFD, and Mr Barrie Yesberg Principal Chaplain at RSLWA.

Among those laying wreaths at the Dawn Service were senior Australian Defence Force Officers, Hon Chris Dawson AC APM Governor of Western Australia, Hon Roger Cook MLA Premier of Western Australia, Hon Paul Papalia CSC MLA, and the Right Honourable Lord Mayor of Perth Mr Basil Zempilas.

Following the Dawn Service, almost 2,000 WA veterans and their families gathered for a complementary Gunfire breakfast at Government House Gardens, enjoying breakfast rolls before the ANZAC Day March commenced through Saint Georges Terrace. More than 131 groups and 21 bands proudly marched this year in the Perth CBD. Once again, the March was broadcasted by the ABC and is available to view at your convenience online.

The March concluded at Langley Park, followed by a new addition this year, the Family & Mateship event. This event was well-received by veterans and families featuring live entertainment, rides, kids' activities, food trucks, and, of course, games of two-up.

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Len Hall Tribute Match

For nearly three decades, the Len Hall Tribute Game has been a cornerstone of the Fremantle Dockers' season, paying tribute to Western Australia's last Gallipoli veteran, Len Hall, of the 10^th Light Horse Regiment.

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This year marked the 27^th anniversary of this ANZAC Day tradition and there was a strong spirit of commemoration throughout the Optus Stadium. Veterans in attendance participated in a special on-ground march and players from both the Bulldogs and Dockers stood shoulder to shoulder with our WA honoured veterans.

Beyond the game itself, as part of the ANZAC Appeal, our dedicated volunteers roamed the ground, engaging with fans and collecting donations to assist our veterans in need.

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We would like to thank everyone who contributed, attended, and supported this special occasion. we extend our heartfelt gratitude. As we look ahead, we hope to continue this tradition next year!

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Working Spirit/RSLWA Career Summit

At RSLWA, one of the most impactful ways we support our veterans and their families is through employment support. We recognise the value of the skills, experience and attitudes gained through service, and we're dedicated to helping veterans find meaningful employment opportunities that can truly transform lives.

In collaboration with Working Spirit, RSLWA hosted a Career Summit at Irwin Barracks on Friday the 10^th of May 2024, giving veterans the chance to connect, learn, and explore opportunities in various industries. Thank you to everyone who attended and to Working Spirit for working with us to organise this event.

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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.

3D Printing

Location: ANZAC House Veteran Central

Date: Wednesday, 5 June 2024

Time: 1:30pm

Looking for a new hobby? Join us for a 3D printing workshop hosted by Matt Woodhead from Veteran Gaming Australia! In this workshop, you'll get an introduction to 3D printing and discover how simple the process can be.

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Art Workshop with Army Art

Location: Osborne Park RSL Sub-Branch

Date: Saturday 29 & Sunday 30 June 2024

Time: 8:30am

Unleash your creativity at a two-day Art Skills workshop with Army Art (WA) at Osborne Park RSL Sub-Branch. This unique opportunity invites you to dive into the world of art alongside talented instructors from Army Art, known for their Defence Art Skills Development program.

Strava Club

Location: Strava Online

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Would you like to get active with other Veterans from around the country? RSL Active Strava Club is a nationwide initiative with more than 200 members who run, walk and cycle their way to fitness with like-minded peers. Strava is a virtual platform for all our RSL community to join in and connect, no matter where you are located.

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If you enjoy getting out and getting active, sign up to an RSL Active Strava Club and enjoy the motivation and camaraderie of sharing your fitness journey.

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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.

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

Nashos WA Group Reunion

Location: Gosnells Hotel

Date: Saturday, 1 June 2024

Time: 12.00pm

On Saturday 1 June the national servicemen in the Nashos WA Group will be having their mid-year reunion and this one will be their 16^th anniversary as a group. All current and former Nashos and their partners are welcome.

The group formed as only 5 members in 2008 and have a growing membership from all states around Australia. They help to bring ex-servicemen together and form a long-lasting mateship.  

Please email for more information and to confirm your attendance.

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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

Dress Code: Black Tie/Mess Kit with Medals

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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ANZAC Club

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Our very own ANZAC Club at ANZAC House has unveiled a lineup of incredible and exciting events that you won't want to miss! Check them out below and don’t forget to book as these events are booking fast:

Location: ANZAC Club, Level 1, 28 St Georges Tce Perth WA 6000

Date: Friday, 31 May 2024

Time: 6.00 pm

Cost: $130pp

Includes arrival canapés and 4 courses with paired wines.

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Location: ANZAC Club, Level 1, 28 St Georges Tce Perth WA 6000

Date: Friday, 13 September 2024

Time: 6.00 pm

Cost: $130 pp

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Includes 4-course meal with paired Houghton wines.

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Location: ANZAC Club

Date: Tuesday, 5 November 2024

Time: 10.30am

Cost: $110pp

Includes 3 course meal and 3-hour beverage package. Plus, there will be sweeps, a raffle, live entertainment and prizes for the best dressed!

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To book, visit the ANZAC Club Website.

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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.

State Congress 2024

Location: ANZAC House, 28 St Georges Terrace, Perth, WA 6000

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 to all members via their Sub-Branch delegates. The format will be slightly different this year with a Congress Eve Welcome Function and Award Ceremony on Friday 5 July 2024 and the Official Opening and Annual General Meeting to follow on Saturday 6 July 2024. Both events will be held at ANZAC House Veteran Central.

A provisional program guide has been sent out to all Sub-Branch Presidents and Secretaries and the Agenda and Annual Report will be made available prior to Congress in accordance with by-law 9.38. The Delegate Nomination Form specifying attendance for both events needs to be returned by Friday 21 June 2024. The Sub-Branch Committees need to submit their Motions on or before Friday 24 May 2024.

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Please direct any questions to our Executive Assistant, Dominique Harris at admin@rslwa.org.au.

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FUNDRAISING

Mayday Campaign

This May, we have launched our Mayday fundraising appeal, dedicated to supporting our Veterans’ Advocacy Service.

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As veterans, we understand the overwhelming challenges of physical and psychological trauma that can result from service. Many of us struggle to access the help needed to recover fully.

Our partners, Hancock Prospecting and Roy Hill, will generously match the first $50,000 of donations. Every dollar donated in May will have double the impact in aiding a veteran to access our advocacy service, ensuring they receive the support they rightfully deserve.

Our RSLWA Veterans’ Advocates are committed to standing up for returned service men and women in need. With expertise in navigating complex claims processes, they ensure veterans receive the vital support necessary so they can enjoy fulfilling lives. This life-changing service depends on the generosity of donors, that’s why we need your help.

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If you are able, please consider making a crucial donation this May to increase your impact in helping our veteran community. You can also support this campaign by sharing and having conversations with your family and friends to let them know about this important fundraiser.

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Visit the Mayday website for more information and donate.

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Honouring Heroes: Seeking Descendants of Korean War Veterans

In a heartfelt initiative to honour the service and sacrifice of those who served in the Korean War, the Korean Government has struck the "Ambassador for Peace Medal" for qualifying veterans or their descendants. As part of this initiative, efforts are being made to locate the relatives of the following veterans of the Korean War:

1. Ernest William Back

2. Joseph Bastow

3. Wally Beckett

4. Dudley Cassidy

5. Alex Croll

6. Derek Donnelly

7. Ronald Duff

8. Colin Edwards

9. Alex Fairfull

10. Ernest Giles

11. Edwin Gordon

12. Norman Hanscott

13. Bill Jamieson

14. Norman Jones

15. Brian Lawrence

16. Walter Mackay

17. John Myatt

18. Allan Newbey

19. Donald Piper

20. Kenneth Plane

21. Robert Leslie Roberts

22. Anderson Sandford

23. Peter Sewell

24. Bill Sharpe

25. Max Sojan

26. Kevin Watson

27. Harold Whitehurst

28. Nathanial Whyte

29. George Wragg

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If you are a descendant or know of any relatives of the veterans, you are invited to please come forward and get in contact with evidence of your connection.

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Updates to RSLWA By-Laws

Our By-Laws have recently been updated and amendments 38 and 39 can be found in the table on page 5. The Returned & Services Leagues across the country are governed by the rules set out in both the National and States Specific Constitutions and supporting By-laws.  As the needs of RSLWA and the veterans and families we support change over time, we must keep our governance framework current.  Changes to the Constitution require approval by State Congress or an Extraordinary General Meeting but the RSLWA Board may approve changes to By-laws. 

These changes are chronologically recorded in the amendment table at the front of each document. Two amendments have recently made and the most up to date version will always be accessible from the About Us > Governance page on our website.