Welcoming a New President

Size: px

Start display at page:

Download "Welcoming a New President"

Mabel Alicia Garrett
5 years ago
Views:

Introducing Rod White AM RFD On 7 June 2016 at the RSL Annual General Meeting Mr Rod White AM RFD was elected as RSL National President.

He has been a member of the RSL for 45 years. I joined the RSL in 1971 and have been a champion of its work and Australia s veteran community ever since, Mr White said.

He was Chair, ANZAC House Trust, RSL LifeCare, RSL Welfare and Benevolent Institution (RSL Defence Care) and a Director with the Army Museum of NSW Foundation.

1 NATIONAL PRESIDENT S NEWSLETTER Issue 13 National President s Newsletter Issue 13 June 2016 RSL CENTENARY LAUNCH IN THIS ISSUE Welcoming a New President This month s newsletter provides a summary and many photos of the Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL) National Centenary Conference for those who may not have been able to attend. The Conference was held in Melbourne on 6 June Introducing Rod White AM RFD On 7 June 2016 at the RSL Annual General Meeting Mr Rod White AM RFD was elected as RSL National President. Mr White is a Vietnam veteran who rose to the rank of Major having served 29 years in the Royal Australian Infantry Core. Previously, Rod held the position of RSL NSW State President. He has been a member of the RSL for 45 years. I joined the RSL in 1971 and have been a champion of its work and Australia s veteran community ever since, Mr White said. Within the RSL, Rod has had extensive experience including State President and Treasurer, Councilor and Sub- Branch President. He was Chair, ANZAC House Trust, RSL LifeCare, RSL Welfare and Benevolent Institution (RSL Defence Care) and a Director with the Army Museum of NSW Foundation. For his service to the RSL and the broader ex-service community, Mr White has received the Australian Centenary Medal and been appointed a Life Member of the RSL. Recently, he received the NSW Government Community Service Award. Rod White AM RFD succeeds Rear Admiral Ken Doolan AO, who served as RSL National President from RSL National Office RSL National President Mr Rod White AM RFD looks forward to working with RSL National CEO, Sam Jackman to continue executing the strategic plan. Launching RSL Centenary The Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition put the election campaign on hold to support RSL Centenary.

While it is important that the RSL evolves to connect with younger veterans, we must take with us those who have been loyal members for decades.

My RSL journey started 45 years ago and over that time my level of involvement has steadily increased as other responsibilities with work and family decreased.

2 NATIONAL PRESIDENT S NEWSLETTER Issue 13 2 National President s Update by Mr Rod White AM RFD Vision for the Future I am excited and honoured to lead the League into its second century. The efforts of RADM Ken Doolan over the last seven years have set the foundation for the RSL to stay relevant and meet the needs of a new generation of veterans and their families. While it is important that the RSL evolves to connect with younger veterans, we must take with us those who have been loyal members for decades. The commencement of a new century of service is a journey where all members must be brought forward. My RSL journey started 45 years ago and over that time my level of involvement has steadily increased as other responsibilities with work and family decreased. It is great to see younger veterans getting involved and working with longer term members on the way forward. A challenge for the RSL and many other membership based organisations is creating realistic models for the changing levels of engagement that is feasible for the members. For example, many people are highly engaged with the RSL on ANZAC Day and for some, work commitments prevent deeper involvement throughout the year. My vision is for the broader community to become more engaged with the RSL. While many associate us with offering a great service through Clubs, we have been providing meals, grants and housing for veterans for 100 years. Each month the RSL meets the financial expenses for veterans and their families in need across Australia. I am very concerned about the number of younger veterans that are sleeping rough each night. In Sydney alone, 8% of homeless people are veterans. In Sydney the RSL Homes for Heroes program offers emergency and longer term accommodation for veterans and their families. Currently this program is supporting men and women who served in recent conflicts. Historically the RSL has not talked about the help it gives veterans, it s just what you do to help your mates. It is now time we get the message out that if you need help or you want to volunteer to help then come to the RSL. You do not need to be a member to receive support. If you do want to become a service member you only need to have served with the Australian Defence Force for at least six months. In some States, members of Australian Emergency Services or Community Support organisations or family members of a service member can join the RSL as affiliates. There are also social memberships offered in some locations. The RSL has an enormous footprint and this enables us to provide unique support that makes a difference. Recently, I received a letter from a family that had been gifted with three nights accommodation at RSL s Hyde Park Inn along with vouchers for children s activities. While the ADF member received medical treatment in Sydney his family enjoyed some much needed relaxation. The letter said that this small act of kindness had literally kept their family together through a difficult time. The RSL National constitutional changes have now been passed and will ensure that the RSL is positioned to continue our service to the veteran community across Australia. While technology and the way we deliver services is changing, the purpose and spirit that founded the RSL is the same: As in 1916 the strong help the weak. Those who were able, formed the RSL as they saw those coming home needed help. My priority is ensuring serving and former serving members receive the care and respect they are entitled. I also hope to further enhance society s knowledge and awareness of our military heritage, so Australians never forget the sacrifices that have been made to preserve our freedoms.

Their aim was to ensure that through appropriate commemorative ceremonies the sacrifices of their fallen comrades were not forgotten; and that they cared for those wounded, injured or suffering as a

One hundred years on the RSL continues as the Nation s foremost and most respected activist organisation caring for the serving and former members of the Australian Defence Force and their families.

3 NATIONAL PRESIDENT S NEWSLETTER Issue 13 3 Wreath Laying Ceremony The Returned, Sailors, Soldiers Imperial League of Australia from which today s Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL) originates was founded by those returning from combat in World War I. Their aim was to ensure that through appropriate commemorative ceremonies the sacrifices of their fallen comrades were not forgotten; and that they cared for those wounded, injured or suffering as a consequence of the War. They set out to look after their mates and their mates families and to forcefully advocate the need for their care. One hundred years on the RSL continues as the Nation s foremost and most respected activist organisation caring for the serving and former members of the Australian Defence Force and their families. On 6 June 1916, the first meeting of what is now known as the RSL was held in Melbourne. This year the 100 th RSL National Conference was held in Melbourne to mark this milestone and officially launch a year of celebrations. The program commenced on 5 June at The Shrine of Remembrance where a simple wreath laying ceremony was held to remember the fallen. The national leaders attended the service to honour the 100-year legacy of the Returned Services League and its assistance to veterans and families of fallen diggers. A catafalque party made up of Victorian Police shrine guards stood holding their rifles around the Stone of Remembrance during the ceremony. Wreaths were laid by The Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition along with a number of national and international dignitaries. "The RSL honours our warriors, their families, and cares for them, it has done the most remarkable service over 100 years," Mr Turnbull said. Mr Shorten said the RSL had assisted millions of Australians and he was proud to participate in the ceremony with his political opponent. It was seen as a sign of great respect that the leaders put their election campaign on hold to attend the service and the Conference the following day. Recreation of the 1916 photo of the National Board members photo includes: back row left to right - Major General David McLachlan AO (Retd), Brigadier Tim Hanna AM, Peter Eveille, Stewart Cameron CSC, Rod White AM RFD. The front row from left to right - Robert Dick, Rear Admiral Ken Doolan AO RAN (Retd), The Hon. Graham Edwards AM photo includes: back row from left to right are - Corp. Murray, Corp. Clifford, Sgt. Pearson, Lt. Col. Plesants, Capt. Cohen, Wt. Officer Palmer, Sgt. Fairbarin, Sgt. Morrell and Capt. Maddock. The names of the people in the middle row from left to right are - Wt. Officer Podmarsh, Miss Thorp, Corp. Evans, Miss Royce and Sgt. McCoy. The people seated at the front left to right are - Sgt. Burns and Sgt. Collins.

The audience were led in the singing of the national anthem by Greta Scarlett who is currently starring in Singin in the Rain.

Following his address, the Governor- General presented Peter Greste with the annual RSL ANZAC Peace Prize.

Each State/Territory branch presents an ANZAC of the Year award to groups and individuals who have made significant

Peter was humbled to receive the award and spoke about the value of mateship that is embodied by the RSL.

4 NATIONAL PRESIDENT S NEWSLETTER Issue 13 4 Opening Ceremony RSL National was pleased to have Sir Peter Cosgrove, Governor-General of Australia open the Centenary Conference. The audience were led in the singing of the national anthem by Greta Scarlett who is currently starring in Singin in the Rain. She generously donated her performance. Following his address, the Governor- General presented Peter Greste with the annual RSL ANZAC Peace Prize. The prize is awarded to a group or individual who has made a significant contribution to world peace. Each State/Territory branch presents an ANZAC of the Year award to groups and individuals who have made significant contributions to their community. Peter was humbled to receive the award and spoke about the value of mateship that is embodied by the RSL. He suggested the concept of mateship be broadened to achieve world peace. The Governor-General then stayed to enjoy morning tea with the delegates. He met many of the 320 delegates and commended the lifelong service many give to the RSL in their local communities. The Governor-General encouraged the RSL to continue its work to improve and modernise the ways and means of care for veterans. A copy of the transcript of his speech is available on our website.

understanding. He insisted that Government s must do better to support returned service personnel.

than offering decent support for the living.

supporting our veterans, said the Hon. Malcolm Turnbull.

5 NATIONAL PRESIDENT S NEWSLETTER Issue 13 5 Leaders Addresses The Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition addressed the audience and both outlined the importance of continuing to improve services to veterans and their families. The Hon. Bill Shorten commented on the long history of the RSL being a welcoming place of camaraderie and quiet understanding. He insisted that Government s must do better to support returned service personnel. He said, The uncomfortable truth is that as a nation we have been better at honouring the memory of our dead, than offering decent support for the living. RSL Centenary Guest Book All dignitaries and delegates were invited to sign the RSL Centenary Guest book at the Conference. The Returned and Services League too has always sought to unite Australians and their leaders in respecting and supporting our veterans, said the Hon. Malcolm Turnbull. He noted that the RSL has helped all Australians to better focus on commemorative activities, including the Anzac Centenary. The Prime Minister also announced that if elected he would establish a new jobs program for veterans. Message from the Hon. Malcolm Turnbull As the RSL grows and evolves the qualities achieved in your years of service to Australia will ensure that you will persevere, adapt and succeed. A copy of the addresses made by the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition are available on the RSL national website. Message from the Hon. Bill Shotern Congratulations on 100 years of outstanding service to veterans, their families and all Australians.

He also provided insights in to the changes in the broader Australian community as the RSL has evolved over the last 100 years. Session 2. Where are we now?

Sam provided an overview of the changes to the way the National Office is communicating and encouraged sub-branches to try a variety of channels, including social media to engage

RSL Victoria CEO, Brigadier Mike Annett and Vice Chief of Defence Force (VCDF), Ray Griggs AO CSC RAN provided the delegates with information on the needs of current serving

VCDF encouraged the RSL to embrace social media as it is another way to reach out to younger members.

We need to work together, especially if we want to connect those who are still serving with the RSL, and make their eventual transition to civilian life as smooth as possible, he

6 NATIONAL PRESIDENT S NEWSLETTER Issue 13 6 Afternoon Program Session 1. Where have we been? Leslie Carlyon AC provided a comprehensive and entertaining view of the history of the foundation of the RSL. He also provided insights in to the changes in the broader Australian community as the RSL has evolved over the last 100 years. Session 2. Where are we now? Sam Jackman, National CEO and Major Dan Cairnes provided an overview of the current status of the RSL. Sam provided an overview of the changes to the way the National Office is communicating and encouraged sub-branches to try a variety of channels, including social media to engage with members and prospective members. Session 3. Where are we going? RSL Victoria CEO, Brigadier Mike Annett and Vice Chief of Defence Force (VCDF), Ray Griggs AO CSC RAN provided the delegates with information on the needs of current serving members. Mike has just returned from a 12 month tour of duty in Afghanistan. He was able to offer a range of ideas on the things that are important to current serving members. VCDF encouraged the RSL to embrace social media as it is another way to reach out to younger members. As other speakers had commented this needs to complement the existing channels and is not a replacement for face-to-face contact. We need to work together, especially if we want to connect those who are still serving with the RSL, and make their eventual transition to civilian life as smooth as possible, he said. He touched on the structure of the RSL and how the move to one Defence could offer some ideas for the RSL. Further, that a more collaborative approach by the Ex Service Organisation community would serve the common goal of helping veterans and their families. Session 4. Governance Geoff Wohlsen and Tom Streeter presented the Governance session. They provided advice on the changes to legislation and key issues for subbranches to be aware. Dan has recently taken on the role of Senior Vice President of the Combined Tramways & East Melbourne RSL sub branch. He shared his experiences being a veteran under the age of 40 years and the types of things that are attractive to his generation.

Department of Veterans Affairs Department of Defence Heart Health RSL Money

Returned Services Association of New Zealand (RSA) at the Conference.

Mint. Tony Ralph AOM, Chairman of Legacy Australia presented RADM Ken Doolan AO

of the 100 Jerseys for 100 Years activity in Victoria.

7 NATIONAL PRESIDENT S NEWSLETTER Issue 13 7 Exhibitors Exhibition Stands RSL National was delighted to have the following exhibitors at the Conference: Department of Veterans Affairs Department of Defence Heart Health RSL Money Centenary Gifts RSL National were honoured to receive gifts from Legacy and Returned Services Association of New Zealand (RSA) at the Conference. Centenary Keepsakes The Perth Mint released the RSL Centenary collector coins in March Each guest attending the Gala Dinner received a coin as a gift from the Perth Mint. Tony Ralph AOM, Chairman of Legacy Australia presented RADM Ken Doolan AO RAN (Retd) with a gift following the wreath laying service at The Shrine of Remembrance. The Australian War Memorial also provided a banner to show their support for the RSL. State and Territory Exhibits Every State and Territory was able to showcase their programs at the Conference. Delegates enjoyed watching video footage and seeing the jerseys that were part of the 100 Jerseys for 100 Years activity in Victoria. Australia Post launched their Centenary Stamp range on 1 June and samples were on display at the Conference. Barry Clarke QSM JP, National President, RSA NZ gave RADM Ken Doolan AO RAN (Retd) a gift during the day program at the Conference. The Right Honourable Lord Mayor of Melbourne, Robert Doyle gave RADM Ken Doolan AO RAN (Retd) a Certificate of Commendation from the City of Melbourne.

Thank you to all who attended the various activities that formed the Conference.

RSL Centenary Keepsakes To mark the special occasion of 100 years of service, the RSL and its supporting

The Perth Mint Coin collectors can remember the RSL centenary with a limited edition coin.

au Member Exclusive Pins In July 2016 RSL will release a range of Centenary pins that are only available

au Australia Post Stamp collectors can purchase a range of Centenary stamp products for their collections.

8 NATIONAL PRESIDENT S NEWSLETTER Issue 13 8 Gala Dinner Over 300 guests attended the Gala Dinner and were entertained by the Royal Australian Navy Band. Thank you to all who attended the various activities that formed the Conference. The early feedback has been very positive and suggestions will be factored into future events. RSL Centenary Keepsakes To mark the special occasion of 100 years of service, the RSL and its supporting partners have created Centenary souvenirs. The Perth Mint Coin collectors can remember the RSL centenary with a limited edition coin. RSL members receive 15% discount. Call or visit perthmint.com.au Member Exclusive Pins In July 2016 RSL will release a range of Centenary pins that are only available to members. They will be for sale at Australia Post Stamp collectors can purchase a range of Centenary stamp products for their collections. The range is available until November 2016 from Australia Post stores, via mail order on and online at auspost.com.au/stamps The funds raised will be used by National, State and Territory branches to help veterans and their families in those local communities. Later in the year the range will expand and can be ordered via the RSL Shop. The supporter range will also be made available for purchase through a selected number of gift store retailers across Australia. The next edition of the National Presidents Newsletter will be available on Friday 29 July 2016.

2018 RSL NSW Committee Structure and State Council Appointments. 24 th January 2018

2018 RSL NSW Committee Structure and State Council Appointments. 24 th January 2018 2018 RSL NSW Structure and State Council Appointments 24 th January 2018 State Council appointments and external responsibilities Entity RSL State Council appointees Description RSL Custodian Pty Ltd James