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Download PDF version of the Sub-Branch Signal

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President’s Update

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Much has occurred in the broader veteran community since the last Sub-Branch Signal. Of incredible significance, the Royal Commission into Defence and Veterans Suicide was finalised. 122 recommendations were made, with views formed from thousands of submissions and evidence. As uncomfortable as many recommendations may be, it is our collective duty to respect these views and do whatever we can to meet their desired outcomes. RSL WA is looking at how we ensure that as an organisation we do everything we can to play our part. Along with the Board and Executive, I will continue to communicate how RSL WA is taking action, in a considered and sustainable manner.

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Many Sub-Branches have completed or are about to complete their Annual General Meeting. I would like to take this opportunity to recognise all outgoing office holders across the League. I am incredibly comfortable in thanking you all on behalf of all members of RSL WA. Your continued service to others has ensured the RSL in WA is moving from strength to strength. You should all be incredibly proud of your service to your Sub-Branch and the League more broadly.

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To all new committee members, I would like to take this opportunity to recognise you and your commitment to our combined vision: “We believe in enabling veterans and their families to thrive in the community.”

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RSL WA is a proud organisation that does so much, and collectively we can do more. I look forward to meeting you all in the future and encourage you to keep an eye out for the planned committee conference in October 2024. This will be a great opportunity to network and gain insight into the “how to” of your role.

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I encourage all committee members and members more broadly to consider our strategy and what you can do in its delivery. While the strategy is being continually reviewed, it provides the goal posts and objectives we strive to achieve every day.

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https://www.rslwa.org.au/about/vision-mission-and-strategy

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The Board of Directors will be holding its next meeting at the Busselton Sub-Branch on 4October 2024. Immediately following this meeting, a Presidents Forum will be held. This will provide an opportunity for members in the South West to join myself and the Board for an informal question and answer session, update and fellowship. Of note, members of the Western Australian Veterans Advisory Committee will also be in attendance. These members form a critical sub committee to the Board and consider matters of policy. Along with Board Directors, these members will be available to all in attendance. Finally, I will be working to re-establish Presidents Forums between myself and Sub-Branch Presidents and will communicate what this looks like in the near future.

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All the best.

Duncan

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Duncan Anderson‍

State President, RSLWA

CEO’s Update

As some of you are aware, ANZAC House has been experiencing some significant disruption with an urgent ICT upgrade. The upgrade was necessary; however, it has been complicated and seriously affected business continuity. I recognise this has been frustrating for those of you trying to contact us. As it stands now, all staff have their email access restored, however, we are still in the process of restoring old emails and files. We also have some extant issues with telephones. I’d like to thank you for your patience and urge you to email if the matter is urgent.

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The State President has underscored the highly significant release of the report of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veterans Suicide. The 2021 ABS Census has given us data on veterans which speaks to the positive aspects of service, but what the Royal Commission makes clear is that the unique occupational stressors and experiences of the profession of arms give risk to factors to current serving members and veterans. I was particularly struck by the concession made by Air Marshal Robert Chipman AO CSC, when he said, “I think the biggest revelation for me has been that the issues of suicide and suicidality that affect our veterans community arise as a result of their service.” The care, camaraderie and advocacy that the RSL provides has a clear role to play in addressing many of the issues raised by the Royal Commission. Over the coming weeks we will be reviewing the final report in detail and determining how we can play our part.

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As many of you would be aware, the Government has announced it has closed its response to the Brereton Report. Like many of you, and as a veteran of the Afghan conflict, I read the report closely. I was among those that found it confronting, compelling, and alas, convincing. Of public interest was the decision to rescind decorations for distinguished leadership from commanders at the unit, squadron and troop level. RSL National has issued a statement highlighting the importance of natural justice. The full statement can be found on the RSL National website. I recognise that members and veterans will all make their own reckoning with the decision of the Government and the Brereton Report more broadly. In so doing, honourable and reasonable people may disagree with each other. We must take great care to do so in a way that reflects our values of care and camaraderie.

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Stephen

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Stephen Barton

CEO, RSL WA

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ICT Outage Update

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As you may be aware, we have experienced a significant ICT outage since 27 August 2024. The outage has impacted our phone systems, which remain offline. However, we are pleased to report that email contact is now available for those needing to get in touch.

If you sent an email to State Branch between 27 August – 10 September, it's likely that this has not been received due to the outage. We ask that you please resend or follow up so we can resolve as soon as possible. 

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By way of background, earlier this year, our new IT services provider, Vescient, strongly recommended urgent changes to ensure the security and compliance of our systems. These changes included migrating our emails and file storage to a secure cloud server. 

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Acting on this advice, we proceeded with the upgrade as a matter of priority. It was during this process that we became aware of further matters that required urgent remediation.  

We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work diligently to restore full operations. 

We will continue to provide updates as we make further progress. 

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Timor-Leste 25th Anniversary Commemorative Service

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Location: State War Memorial, Kings Park

Date: Friday, 20 September 2024

Time: 2:00 pm to 2:45 pm

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Join us at the State War Memorial (Kings Park) to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Australian service in Timor-Leste.

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After East Timor voted for independence from Indonesia in August 1999, pro-Indonesian militia responded with violence against civilians and personnel of the United Nations mission to oversee the ballot (UNAMET). In September, Australia led an international peacekeeping force (INTERFET) to stop the bloodshed and oversee the transition to self-rule. In 2000, a United Nations transitional administration took over (UNTAET) the first of five further missions of support in which Australian participated. The last Australian peacekeepers left East Timor in 2013.

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If you are unable to make the WA service at Kings Park, the Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) will be broadcasting a commemorative service at The Australian Peacekeeping Memorial in Canberra on 20 September 2024.

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Timor-Leste Peacekeeper Pins

In honour of the 25th anniversary of Australian service in Timor-Leste, we're offering special Peacekeeper Pins for just $5 each.

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Now available at the ANZAC Club on Level 1 of ANZAC House, this Antique Brass Lapel Pin is more than a simple accessory – it represents the strength and courage of the people of East Timor in their journey toward independence.

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This elegant pin is a reminder of the triumph of peace over violence. Wear it proudly on your lapel, tie or bag to show your support for peace and resilience.

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Stocks are limited so hurry, and don't miss out!

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Expression Of Interest for RSL WA State Tribunal Membership

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RSL WA are leaders in the care of the veteran community through their pursuance of dynamic Welfare and Advocacy programs to the benefit of its members. These programs form the core responsibilities of RSL WA’s activities. To achieve these activities, a number of subcommittees work within their allocated remit reporting to the Board of Directors when and if required. To ensure continuity in these committees, succession planning is vital.

Due to the retirement and reorganisation, we seek Expressions of Interest (EOI) from suitably qualified persons to fill five vacancies on the State Tribunal.

As per the Constitution, the Tribunal shall hear all matters referred to it by RSL WA. These matters include:

1. appeals on decisions of Sub-Branches, both disciplinary and administrative;

2. disciplinary matters referred to it by RSL WA;

3. appeals or hearings in relation to eligibility for memberships, transfers of membership, as set out in the Rules; and,

4. other such matters referred to it by the Board of Directors to deal with complaints, disputes and grievances from individuals arising within the jurisdiction of RSL WA.

Members of the State Branch Tribunal shall be selected through a recruiting process conducted by the Nominations Committee. A recommendation will then be forwarded to the Board of Directors for their approval. At the next AGM/EGM, the membership/attendees will be requested to confirm the appointment of the newly selected Tribunal members, plus those who are already on the Tribunal.  Tribunal membership is for a period of three years and may be extended for further three-year periods.

The successful applicants will commence their term from November 2024.

Applications should be by letter outlining the skills and experience the candidate would bring to the Tribunal. Applications should be typed and no more than 400 words.  

Applications – should be sent to the Chairman, RSL WA Nominations Committee, C/- admin@rslwa.org.au by COB Monday 14 October 2024.

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Expression Of Interest for RSL WA Veterans Affairs Committee (WAVAC)

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RSL WA are leaders in the care of the veteran community through their pursuance of dynamic Welfare and Advocacy programs to the benefit of its members. These programs form the core responsibilities of RSL WA’s activities. To achieve these activities, a number of subcommittees work within their allocated remit reporting to the Board of Directors when and if required. To ensure continuity in these committees, succession planning is vital.

The role of the WAVAC is to represent the broad views of the veteran community. In doing so the Committee will support the Board of RSL WA to develop and review strategies; identify issues of importance to veterans and their families; integrate the veteran voice and priorities into our activities and canvass opinions from the wider veteran community. In doing so WAVAC will inform the National Veteran agenda through the National Veterans Advisory Committee.

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We seek applications from veterans who are RSL WA members. Members are asked to attend approximately six meetings per year, either online or in person at ANZAC House. This is a pro bono position. Members of WAVAC shall be selected through a recruiting process conducted by the Nominations Committee. A recommendation will then be forwarded to the Chair of WAVAC for approval.

The successful applicants will commence their term from November 2024.

Applications should be by letter outlining the skills and experience the candidate would bring to the Committee. Applications should be typed and no more than 400 words.

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Applications – should be sent to the Chairman, RSL WA Nominations Committee, C/- admin@rslwa.org.au by COB Monday 21 October 2024.

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Veterans Day at Perth Royal Show

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Get your discounted tickets to Veteran’s Day at the Perth Royal Show on Thursday 26 September.

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·      $5 discount off Concession tickets (normally $12.50). Booking fees still apply – more info is available here 

·      Valid only for Perth Royal Show Veteran’s Day on Thursday 26 September 2024

·      Up to four free children’s tickets can be added to each concession ticket ordered

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Tickets cannot be made available at the gate as they need to be pre-purchased online using the discount code below:

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·      Discount code: VETERANS2024

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All concession ticket holders must provide a valid concession card upon entry.

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Don’t forget to visit the RSL WA display on the day to receive a free show bag (pending stock availability).

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Poppy Appeal 2024

The Poppy Appeal is one of RSL WA’s largest annual fundraising events, both locally and across the State, with the funds raised going directly to providing support to veterans and their families who may be facing an array of challenges resulting from their service for our country.

RSL WA preparations for the 2024 Poppy Appeal are well underway. All Sub-Branches should have received an email communication with important dates and details, links to RSL WA’s Sub-Branch online merchandise store, and general information regarding arrangements for the Poppy Appeal.

Mark the Poppy Appeal date on your calendar now: Friday 1 November 2024, throughout WA.

Our dedicated members, Sub-Branches, volunteers, RSL WA staff and Defence Force personnel, along with local businesses and community groups, will be out in the community and at many of Perth’s train stations to raise funds to support our veterans in need.

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Remembrance Day 2024

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 RSL WA’s official Remembrance Day service will take place at the State War Memorial in Kings Park on Monday 11 November. More details will be added to our website and published in future editions of the Sub-Branch Signal.

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Free training for veterans

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 In partnership with the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Mental Health First Aid International is launching Mental Health Protect™, a fully funded mental health literacy and suicide prevention training program available to all members of the veteran community.

Join a nationwide initiative to improve mental health literacy and prevent suicide within the veteran community.

This fully funded training program is open to:

·      Veterans who are ex-serving Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel.

·      Families, friends, carers, employers, and colleagues of ex-serving and current ADF personnel.

·      Health care professionals and community members supporting veterans and their families.

·      Current ADF personnel.

Enrol in a course to gain the knowledge, skills and confidence to recognise and respond to signs of mental health problems, suicidal thoughts or other crises.

Learn more and enrol: www.mhfa.com.au/protect

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Northam Compensation Claims Consults

Location: Northam RSL Sub-Branch

Date: Tuesday, 1 October, 5 November and 3 December

Time: 9:30 am

Consults with a Compensation Claims Advocate will be conducted at the Northam RSL Hall on the first Tuesday of the month, with the first appointment commencing from 9:30 am.

In the event that we don’t have a minimum of two appointments, we will not be attending, but we can still provide the advocacy service without doing face-to-face interviews.

To book an appointment, please email Advocacy@rslwa.org.au

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RSL Active

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Your gateway to connecting with fellow veteran families across Western Australia, offering an array of exciting events and activities tailored just for you. RSL WA 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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Strava Club

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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.

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.

Sailing On

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

Date: Monday and Wednesday every week

Time: 9:00 am

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

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

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EVENTS

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Sub-Branch Committee Conference 2024

The RSL WA Committee Conference will be held on Thursday, 24 October 2024 at ANZAC House and serves as a forum for Sub-Branch committee members and RSL WA team leaders to collaborate, share insights and shape the future of our RSL Sub-Branches.

Offering keynote addresses, RSL WA department initiatives and networking opportunities, this conference is designed to help new and existing committee members actively participate and collaborate on strategies to support our veteran community.

We want to extend a warm welcome to all our current and new committee members to participate in this event and look forward to welcoming you all to ANZAC House on Thursday 24 October.

For more information, please email membership@rslwa.org.au

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ANZAC Club Functions

Whether you're looking to host a meeting, luncheon, dinner, sundowner, cocktail party, conference or anything in between, ANZAC Club offers three floors of flexible modern event spaces with state-of-the-art facilities and a unique atmosphere that’s perfect for your event!

Located on the 5th, 6th and 7th floors of ANZAC House, ANZAC Club offers stunning views of Government House gardens, the CBD and the Swan River. Our private function spaces feature floor-to-ceiling windows and spacious private balconies, creating a picturesque backdrop for any occasion.

For smaller gatherings, our two intimate meeting rooms on Level 1, just off the Club Restaurant, provide the perfect setting for productive meetings or luncheons.

Discover tailored experiences with our versatile function packages designed to suit every occasion. From celebratory cocktails to plated dinners, our culinary team ensures every dish is a masterpiece. Our dedicated team will make sure your event is unforgettable.

Contact us today at events@anzacclub.org.au to discover how ANZAC Club can make your next occasion exceptional.

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ANZAC Club

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Location: ANZAC Club

Date: Tuesday 5 November 2024

Time: 10.30 am

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!

To book, visit the ANZAC Club Website.

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