RSL Victoria Community Benefits Report 2017

Transcription

1 RSL Victoria Community Benefits Report 2017

2 Introduction RSL Victoria s key mission is to provide support services to current and former service men and women and their dependents in times of need. This has been our core mission since our establishment in 1916 and now, over one hundred years later, we continue to uphold our mission during significant Commemorative events throughout the year supporting our volunteers, staff and extended community. There are over 280 Sub-Branches throughout the state of Victoria and it is likely that when travelling from the most north east point to the most south west point of the state, you will come across numerous sets of RSL signage, Cenotaphs and Avenues of Honour. Our presence represents the outpouring of support for the Returned & Services League by Victorians of all ages in these communities. In 2017, our licensed Sub-Branches collectively donated over $7.7 million in support of their communities and contributed over $89 million in community benefits. Heading into our second century, we hope that it will be one which would stand out as a time of inspiration, motivation and collaboration. Our network of more than 11,000 volunteers, over 2,200 staff and 190,011 members will ensure that it will be a fabulous year for the RSL and its community throughout Victoria. The 2017 Community Benefits Report provides an overview of successes throughout the year. We are thankful for the support of our volunteers and cannot underestimate the significant role they play within the community, having donated more than 710,000 hours in 2017 alone. Dr Robert Webster OAM State President, RSL Victoria 2. Community Benefits Report 2017

3 Contents Commemoration 4 Veteran Support 7 Community Support 8 More for Members 10 Our Volunteers 12 Governance 13 Employer of Choice 14 The Future 15 RSL Sub-Branches 16 Thank You 19 Cover: 5,000 Poppies Project, Shrine of Remembrance 2017, Photographer: Claire Takacs Background Photograph: Shrine of Remembrance, ANZAC Day 2017, Photographer: Marcus Thompson Community Benefits Report

4 Commemoration This evening, we are delighted to acknowledge your new State President, Rob Webster OAM, to congratulate him on his recognition in the recent Australia Day honours, and to say how much Tony and I look forward to spending time with him and Jenni. He is in for a busy year, as the RSL continues its good work supporting its members, and prepares to mark many particular anniversaries, including the 75th anniversaries of The Battle of the Coral Sea, the Kokoda Track Campaign and the Battle of El Alamein, as well as the 100th anniversaries of the Battle of Polygon Wood and the Battle of Beersheba. Speech by the Governor of Victoria, The Hon. Linda Dessau AC, RSL Remembrance Reception at ANZAC House. The RSL remains the key facilitator and custodian of Veteran commemoration throughout Victoria and in doing this we fulfil a key part of our mission. We foster respect and thanks from the nation for all those who have made sacrifices in Australia s name. On a wet day throughout much of the state on ANZAC Day 2017 we had a smaller Dawn Service at the Shrine and March than in recent years, but the occasion was well supported, and the spirit of all participants was clear to see. Many of our Sub-Branches reported very strong attendances at services and marches, which, given all of the hard work of our volunteers, was very pleasing. Our Second World War veterans, despite dwindling numbers in the March itself, did get a great deal of deserved focus this year. The 75th Anniversary of the Battle of the Coral Sea, Milne Bay and the Kokoda campaigns and the proper observance of the Anniversary of VE and VP Day at the Shrine this year, which the State Branch helped to organise, also played a part in reinforcing our debt to this great generation. The 99th Anniversary of Armistice was marked by strong attendances at RSL activities around the state as we approach the Centenary in 2018, and the very large Remembrance Sunday Service at the Springvale War Cemetery was also a highlight in Other significant commemorations supported by the RSL this year included the 50th Anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan which marks a milestone for all our Vietnam Veterans, and many other Veteran commemorations, including the Indigenous Veteran Service were also supported by the RSL at the Shrine in Together with our contribution to the 100th Anniversary of the Australian Light Horse charge at Beersheba on 31st October 2017, the Victorian Branch of the RSL has had a very extensive and successful year of Veteran commemoration in Brigadier Michael Annett CSC State Secretary, RSL Victoria Approx. 30,000 Shrine of Remembrance Dawn Service attendance ANZAC Day Service Shrine of Remembrance 4. Community Benefits Report 2017

5 RSL Victoria support each of our Sub-Branches in responding to community feedback when conducting commemorative events on significant days such as ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day and making these days special. Darebin RSL have inherited a large amount of commemoration activities since the closure of Fairfield- Alphington RSL and the Northcote RSL. Since 1974 the Northcote RSL provided a commemorative service in partnership with the Northcote Police to commemorate the execution of Corporal Rodney Breavington by the Japanese in WWII. Corporal Breavington was an Acting Sergeant at Northcote Police Station prior to enlisting in the Australian Army. A Rodney Breavington Award has been presented to a serving Northcote Police Member since This ceremony was held at the Northcote RSL until its closure then the Fairfield/Alphington RSL and subsequently the Darebin RSL now proudly continues this tradition. Epping RSL hold their pre-anzac service and March on the Sunday before ANZAC Day. With the support of the Police and the City of Whittlesea, the road is blocked off and Veterans and their families march down High Street to the original site of the RSL, which is now the Epping Community Hall. It is very moving to see the ex-diggers march with pride with elderly Veterans riding in army jeeps. Many other groups also march including cadets, scouts, police, CFA and SES. In August 2017, Keilor East RSL held a Long Tan Vietnam Veteran s Commemorative Service and Lunch that drew a great crowd. Wreaths were laid at the Long Tan Cross, as this is the recognised symbol for Vietnam Veterans. The Sub-Branch put on a free lunch for all service members. Keilor East RSL had a large attendance at their ANZAC Day 2017 march and Dawn Service. The Light Horse Brigade lead the marchers behind the Rats of Tobruk pipe band, followed by 12 Light Horsemen from Creswick Light Horse Troop. This was followed by Veterans, cadets, scouts, guides and members. At Rosebud RSL, ceremonial activities on ANZAC and Remembrance Day continue to grow and Rosebud RSL embrace local community participation. Record numbers braved the cold on ANZAC Day to attend the Dawn Service where attendees were silenced by the sounds of the lone piper. Following the Dawn Service, volunteers served breakfast to over 500 people with meals in the bistro along with an outdoor sausage sizzle. Over 1,000 people attended the Seaford Cenotaph on ANZAC Day Joined by guest speaker LCDR Tristan Hertier, along with the Kananook Primary School Choir, Senior Vice President of Seaford RSL, Peter Kerley conducted a sombre and reflective service that honoured the nature of the day. Three hundred people attended the service on Remembrance Day which included a wreath laying ceremony, speeches from Veterans and local school children. The Phillip Island RSL ANZAC Day service has grown significantly over the years. From a handheld microphone, a portable PA and about 200 people back in 2006 to today averaging between 5,000 and 7,000 people a full scale event with sound systems, video cameras, big screen, choirs, poetry and exhibitions attracting the local community and visitors. Commemorating at Epping RSL Yarra Glen RSL ANZAC Day service Community Benefits Report

6 The RSL was founded in 1916 to provide comradeship and support to Australia s Veterans and their families. That core mission has never changed but has continued to evolve to meet the needs of each generation of servicemen and women. We have a Sub-Branch network that covers Australia and any Veteran who needs help will get it, as every serving ADF member and Veteran will be warmly welcomed by their local RSL. We will continue to advocate for the best possible conditions for our serving men and women. ANZAC House 6. Community Benefits Report 2017

7 Veteran Support Veteran Support Sub-Branch volunteer Advocates, Pensions Officers and Welfare Coordinators provide specific assistance to Veterans in need. These services are free of charge to all current and former members of the ADF and their families. RSL Victoria supports its Sub-Branches with professional and qualified Advocates and Pension Officers who are trained under the Training & Information Program (TIP) and where required can complete Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) courses. This training enables their skills and qualifications to be transferred across to the Advocacy Training & Development Program (ADTP). Throughout 2017, RSL Victoria Advocates supported over 185 new Veteran Appeals and 403 requests for financial assistance. Over $1.2M in financial assistance was provided to the serving and ex-service community directly from the office of ANZAC House alone. Veterans are always our priority Dandenong-Cranbourne RSL provide funding to Young Veteran programs where the aim is to encourage young Veterans to take ownership of the programs and to run them themselves. The Sub-Branch vision is to support the Young Veterans to become self-sufficient with programs creating employment through skill learning and sharing. The Smoke Alarm initiative at Seaford RSL took on the project of updating Veterans smoke alarms and electricity meter boards. Sixty-eight Veterans homes smoke detectors were updated with the installation of long life lithium batteries ensuring the smoke alarms will be working in these houses for the next 10 years. Keilor East RSL arrange for Veterans and war widows lawns to be mowed on a regular basis, which is funded by their General Appeals account. At the end of September in 2017, Keilor East RSL had paid for 774 lawns to be mowed, 7 trees to be chopped down, 43 shrubs to be trimmed and several other garden and maintenance issues have been taken care of. The staff at Bentleigh RSL Sub-Branch encorporating Cheltenham-Moorabbin RSL are experienced in Agedcare matters and are able to provide information about health issues, particularly those related to the ex-service community. Bentleigh-Cheltenham RSL provide individuals, family members and the broader community with information and advice including exercise programs, friendship programs, taxi vouchers, emergency services programs and counselling services. Former RSL Victoria State President David McLachlan OAM with Jeff Jackson OAM, Manager Pensions, Advocacy and Welfare Support and Wendy Bateman, Manager Aged and Health Support Support group at Bentleigh RSL Veteran support, Keilor East RSL Community Benefits Report

8 Community Support Each RSL recognizes the importance of maintaining a strong relationship with their community. Sub-Branches work with local organisations and schools to provide facilities and opportunities through sponsorships, and grants as well as access to RSL Sub-Branch facilities. Our Sub- Branch network prides itself on supporting a diverse community across the state. $7.7M+ in community support donations $89M total community benefit Epping RSL continues to provide community support providing scholarships and bursaries for local schools to assists children with reading disabilities and also sponsorship for disadvantaged children to attend Portsea Camp. The Epping RSL Good Samaritan Award is given each year to a pupil at a local school to assist a family with the purchase of a school uniform. The Keilor East RSL has a formidable reputation for its fundraising efforts through their very generous members. In 2017 the Sub-Branch raised $20, which was donated to various charities, including the Royal Children s Hospital Appeal. Their commitment to the Very Special Kids appeal continues to gain momentum raising $10,842 in The Joey s Kids Club at Phillip Island RSL has been an integral tool in promoting the family friendly message to members. The school holiday programs are primarily for Joey s Kids Club members nevertheless, non-member children also attend. Home visits were introduced in late 2016 at Phillip Island RSL. Policy and volunteer training was a major factor when re-establishing this program to ensure that the volunteers were well equipped with the skills and the understandings of new government policies in regards to visiting individuals at home. Traralgon showing their support on ANZAC Day 2017 Bentleigh-Cheltenham RSL continues to deliver services to the community in their support of over 30 local sporting and community partnerships. Since the amalgamation of the two Sub-Branches in 2016, the commitment to excellent customer service, member support and Veteran services continues to develop. Local mosaic artist Sankar Nadeson was commissioned by Sunshine RSL to create 14 mosaic pictures depicting the history of Australian Service which will be on permanent display throughout the main shopping district of Sunshine. A phone application will soon be available explaining each mosaic piece and the history behind the person or scene involved. Each picture will have the logos of the RSL, Victorian Government and Centenary of ANZAC. Families support the ANZAC Day March 8. Community Benefits Report 2017

9 Peter Burquest and Murray Lewis from Caroline Springs RSL raising money for the ANZAC Appeal with Bunnings staff. The value and volume of support each Sub-Branch provides within their local community, along with their not-for-profit presence cannot be underestimated. Revenue from commercial activity provides these amazing communities services and support Veterans, their families and the local community. Community Benefits Report

10 More for Members RSL Almost 190,011 members in Victoria Member growth of 12,128 $9.1M+ in redevelopment costs $2.2M+ in RSL Reward Points awarded to members The RSL is a special place for our many members. It is a place they come to be social, to be entertained and to be supported in their local community. In September 2017, RSL Victoria conducted a member survey, to gain an understanding into our members perception of the RSL. Here are some of the reasons our members joined the RSL: The meals are fantastic and I look forward to eating there every Sunday evening. The RSL is a gathering of people who share common beliefs. As an Ex-Service member, the RSL has always supported me and now I can support it. Listening and responding to members needs Over the past year, we have learned a lot about our members. We can see that members are responding in a positive and proactive manner to our member website, which was launched in November Members are actively using rslrewards.com.au to make purchases and renew their membership online. To ensure that the website is meeting consumer demand, products are continuously updated. The Darebin RSL has worked to provide a point of contact for its Service Members with the implementation in 2016 of Service Member Mondays. This initiative is a series of monthly dinners provided free of charge to Service Members and their dependents to continue to foster the feeling of comradery. This also provides the Members, the Committee and Employees of the Sub-Branch, a chance to come together and look in on one another regularly ensuring nobody drops off the radar without being noticed. Monthly Morning Melodies at Keilor East RSL is renowned around the area and broader community. Each month Keilor East RSL have over 180 people attending who are provided with a light lunch of sandwiches and pastries. Guests are entertained for 2 hours with music of a by gone era, with many residents and visitors dancing with our volunteers. In April 2017 Keilor East RSL celebrated 17 years of Morning Melodies. Dandenong-Cranbourne RSL offer a range of member activities such as themed member night s on Tuesday s and Thursday s and Friday night raffles. Sunday Sippers attracts large amounts of younger members and guests with a modern approach to live entertainment. The Spring Racing Carnival is very popular with Ladies Oaks Day and Melbourne Cup Day allowing our female members and guests the opportunity to frock up and enjoy the Fashions on the Field contest. The RSL Rewards program provides all members with the opportunity to be involved in promotional activities and member draws simply by swiping their card. Brian Cairns Chief Operating Officer, RSL Victoria RSL Rewards June 2017 promotion Sandra Mitchell, winner of our August 2017 promotion with Waverley RSL Manager, Chris Toohey 10. Community Benefits Report 2017

11 Making members happy By ensuring members are engaged, comfortable and having fun, RSL Sub-Branches are actively contributing to an enjoyable environment. Epping RSL have recently added a new large outside playground which adds to the family friendly atmosphere. The colorful playground is visible from the street and assists in attracting visitors from the rapidly expanding local residential area. At Keilor East RSL indoor bowls is played every Friday night where the over 75 year old s have a game of bowls, a few drinks and a whole lot of laughs which combine to make a very enjoyable social outing. Staff members at Sheparton RSL celebrated Australia Day 2017 in style. A free sausage sizzle, monster raffle and live music helped to fly the flag for a great display of national pride. RSL Rewards In 2017, members won in excess of $200,000 worth of prizes through network promotions. Notable winners include Sandra Mitchell of Waverley RSL who won herself an Indian Scout Motorbike in the August network promotion and Stuart Conwey of Bendigo District RSL, who won our first ever $20,000 cash members draw on November 30, 2017! For every dollar a member spends within a participating RSL Sub-Branch, they are entitled to receive 2 RSL Reward Points. These points can then be redeemed either in a participating RSL on food or beverage, or on our member website rslrewards.com.au In early 2017, RSL Victoria ran a three-month trial of double points across Sub-Branches on an opt-in basis. The results indicated that Sub-Branches who participated in the promotion experienced a higher volume of transactions year on year. RSL Victoria introduced a Loyalty Champion program in 2017, where selected Sub-Branch staff were taken out of their own environment to learn about trends in the industry. This program aims to educate staff about the importance of each step of the customer journey to ensure that members will benefit from an increase in staff knowledge. The modern RSL The renovations at Longbeach RSL which were completed in April 2017 have helped to bring welcome change to the club with not only with an increase to their membership base but also with a lifted spirt of the members. The renovation includes a Memorabilia Wall which is a peaceful and tranquil area where visitors can come to reflect. The idea is to offer select pieces of history and portray them in an exhibition style of setting. Bentleigh-Cheltenham RSL are continually upgrading their business operations to ensure that both campuses offer reputable food and beverage options. The campus s have been rebranded to include a Guest Services Officer. Both campuses offer environmentally sustainable options including lighting, online training resources, digital signage and the use of ipads to communicate. Epping RSL have recently refurbished their bistro with new carpet, chairs, tables and have also improved the bar with a new façade, making it more comfortable for members and guests. The Epping RSL Bistro and Bar has been renamed the Batallion Bistro and Bar, in line with these improvements. Epping RSL are planning a kitchen extension to cope with the increase in patronage and to improve efficiency in staff operation. The Shepparton RSL team celebrating Australia Day with members Longbeach RSL Entrance before renovation Longbeach RSL Entrance after renovation Community Benefits Report

12 Our Volunteers 11,000+ volunteers across the network 710,000+ in volunteer hours $14.2M+ in volunteer hours $5.6M+ raised through ANZAC and Poppy Appeal RSL Victoria volunteers work tirelessly to provide support in the areas of Veteran support, commemoration, fundraising, events, education and community functions. The support provided by our volunteers including Veterans, off duty staff and community groups is driven by initiatives implemented by each Sub-Branch Committee, who are also volunteers. RSL Victoria upholds its volunteer footprint particularly through bi-annual fundraising Appeals and major commemorative activity in the City of Melbourne and at the Shrine of Remembrance. State President Robert Wester OAM and Jay O Brien, District Executive from ANZ Bank induct Marilyn Ryan, Altona RSL, John Paterson, Pascoe Vale RSL, Ian Caines, Moe RSL and Robert Cross, Darebin RSL into the Hall of Fame Hall of Fame inductees 2017 The Annual Hall of Fame Awards Gala provides an opportunity for the Network to celebrate the generosity of individuals, whose dedication and respect for Service personnel, past and present is unwaivering. In 2017 four names were added to the list of inductees to the RSL Victoria Hall of Fame. Marilyn Ryan has been a member of the RSL for 31 years and has been Welfare Officer at Altona RSL since Marilyn was appointed as a Delegate in Region Three in 2017 and undertakes a mentoring role in that Region when required. She initiated the increase in the number of trained TIP Welfare Officers to cover the Altona and Williamstown areas due to the increased need in these areas. John Paterson was appointed to the State Executive Committee in 2009 and only recently retired due to ill health. Since 2013, John has held the position of Secretary and Appeals Officer at Pascoe Vale RSL and holds he position of Deputy Chairman on the Region Three Committee. John was awarded an RSL Life Membership in Ian Caines is the President at Moe RSL. Ian s active involvement in the wider ex-service community, combined with continuing experience on the Executive of the Moe Sub-Branch has provided Ian with the knowledge of the challenges facing the RSL including improved corporate governance. He is committed to identifying strategies to maintain and assist Moe RSL through critically challenging times and continues to work diligently on behalf of all members. Since his initial election to the Committee of Management in 1977 and until the current day as President, Robert Cross has tirelessly served the Preston now Darebin RSL for over 40 years. As President, Robert has been the driving force with regard to the Sub-Branch establishing itself in the Community of Preston and its surrounding suburbs, taking the initiative to grow the presence of the RSL movement. 12. Community Benefits Report 2017

13 Governance 89% of large Licensed Sub-Branch Committees conducted Corporate Governance training in 2017 RSL Victoria recognises the importance of ensuring that the State Branch and Sub-Branches are fulfilling their responsibilities to their members. The integrity of the RSL is paramount to ensure it is protected and maintained for generations to come. In 2017, the Corporate Governance training program for large Licensed Sub-Branch Committee members continued. During the year, three training sessions were held with a total of 59 attendees. This included a session which was held on a Saturday to accommodate Committee members who work during the week. Since the inception of the Corporate Governance training program in 2015, a total of 29 training sessions have been held with over 550 Committee members undertaking the training across the large Licensed Sub-Branch network. In addition, 2017 produced the first Corporate Governance training sessions specifically for Committee members from small Licensed Sub-Branches. There were a total of 4 sessions held, including a Saturday session, whereby 72 attendees across 30 Sub-Branches were present. These sessions were greatly supported and well received by attendees and will see these sessions continue into 2018 and beyond saw the development and implementation of the Corporate Governance manual tailored specifically for small Licensed Sub-Branches. Looking forward to 2018, the Governance Committee has been working hard on various governance training options. Face-to-face Governance training for large Licensed Sub- Branches will continue for all new Committee members and Committee members yet to complete the training. Also, as stated above, face-to-face training will continue for small Licensed Sub-Branches. Furthermore, 2018 will see the introduction of a Governance elearning module. This module will be available on-line and will be accessible to Committee members of all Victorian RSL Sub-Branches. Significant time and resources have been put into this project. This Governance module has been created to assist Sub-Branch Committee members to effectively navigate through the challenges and commitments faced by Sub-Branch Committees. There has never been a more important time than now to ensure that Sub-Branches are operating in line with the RSL Objects and are leading the way as community-based charities. Governance Training Community Benefits Report

14 Employer of Choice Staff are the first point of contact for any member or visitor enjoying the facilities of a licensed RSL Sub-Branch, so it is important that front of house staff are friendly and approachable so that people of all ages feel welcome. All Sub- Branches throughout Victoria uphold this value. The Network played a key role in economic and jobs growth again in 2017, making hundreds of jobs available in the hospitality industry. At the 2017 RSL Victoria Licensed Sub-Branches Hall of Fame Gala Awards night, the annual Sub-Branch of the Year and Sub-Branch Manager of the Year is also awarded. Staff and volunteers are nominated to receive Recognition and Achievement Awards, which is a wonderful way to acknowledge excellence within the Network. Bentleigh-Cheltenham RSL are a family that live and breathe the RSL ethos. Bentleigh RSL amalgamated with Cheltenham-Moorabbin RSL in 2015 to ensure that the Sub-Branch would continue to exist. They are dedicated to supporting Veterans from both Sub-Branches and local community. Bentleigh-Cheltenham RSL are active in the community and encourage a space for social inclusion amongst their members and have recently introduced a full-time Guest Services Ambassador. Bentleigh-Cheltenham RSL offer a range of programs from a Day Club for members, which includes bus trips, guest speakers and concerts to computer classes, which offer a much-needed service to the extended community. Bentleigh-Cheltenham RSL are privileged and grateful to have received the prestigious award of Sub Branch of the Year We would like to acknowledge our wonderful Volunteers, Members and staff for their dedication to the Sub Branch. It takes a strong team effort to achieve acknowledgment for the work that they do. Congratulations Team. Glenn Sanders, General Manager, Bentleigh-Cheltenham RSL. When a General Manager can encompass these values to deliver results in all aspects their RSL, they stand out. Leigh Proud, General Manager at Longbeach RSL and recipient of the 2017 Sub-Branch Manager of the Year award recognizes the effects a supportive team can have on the working environment. To be awarded 2017 Manager of the Year was an incredible feeling for not only myself but the whole team. I m only one guy with a team behind me that supports the vision and helps me make it real. Leigh Proud General Manager, Longbeach RSL 2,200+ employees state wide $68M+ in employee wages Sub-Branch Manager of the Year, Leigh Proud, Longbeach RSL Sub-Branch of the Year 2017, Bentleigh RSL 14. Community Benefits Report 2017

15 The Future Contemporary Veterans The team at RSL Victoria and our Sub-Branches have worked tirelessly since the official launch of RSL Active in May The program was launched following a successful pilot program conducted by Geelong RSL and seed funding by the Victorian Government. A range of adaptive sports, outdoor activities and transition related events form the cornerstone of the programme that is designed to mitigate social isolation, build peer to peer contemporary Veteran connections and assist in Veteran transition to civilian life. This initiative is linked to also encouraging a larger number of younger Veterans and their families to get involved as members, and over time working on our Committees and as volunteers more broadly. The succession planning for Sub-Branch Committees and fresh ideas and energy for our volunteer effort is critical in continuing the vital work of the RSL and ensuring we stay ready and relevant to meet the needs of each successive veteran generation and the local communities where we have a positive presence. In late 2017 a broad Term of References was approved by State Executive to guide a holistic review into how we can best support the Victorian Veteran Community, in a collaborative way with our stakeholders and partners in the period. The results of this strategic review will be endorsed and shaped into a plan for action in 2018 but many of the initiatives of 2017 will provide a strong foundation for this important work over the next decade and beyond. Prudent Financial Management The Victorian RSL Sub-Branches carry significant responsibility to ensure that they perform the work of the League, whilst remaining compliant with a range of regulators that govern its activities. These regulators include Consumer Affairs Victoria, the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation, the Australian Taxation Office and the Australian Charities and Not-for-profit Commission. Compliance with these authorities requires the committee and management of the Sub-Branches to operate under strict corporate governance standards and to exercise the utmost prudential financial management. Sub-Branch committees and management undertake regular corporate governance training to develop the necessary skills to ensure governance standards are maintained. Strategic Planning The delivery of commercial hospitality operations in a very competitive market sector sees our large network of licensed RSL Sub-Branches constantly reviewing their operations to remain both financially viable and competitive. In order to meet those operational challenges a large number of our Licensed Sub-Branches undertake strategic planning workshops with the assistance of a suitably qualified consultant. The development of a wellconstructed strategic plan provides the Sub-Branch with a document that will define its medium to long term objectives and identify strategies to achieve those goals. This road map for the future should be regularly reviewed and revised to ensure that the Sub-Branch Committee and management are clear in their thinking and work with all stakeholders to achieve those outcomes. RSL Active Trekking RSL Active Wheelchair Basketball Community Benefits Report

16 RSL Sub-Branches Across Victoria (By Local Government Area) The following list of Sub-Branches is ordered by Local Government Area. Licensed Sub-Branches are highlighted in bold, and licensed Sub-Branches with gaming are bold and underlined. 1 City of Ballarat Ballarat RSL Buninyong RSL Sebastopol RSL 2 City of Greater Bendigo Bendigo District RSL Elmore RSL Heathcote RSL Kangaroo Flat RSL 3 Shire of Central Goldfields Dunolly-Bealiba RSL Maryborough RSL Talbot RSL 4 Shire of Hepburn Clunes RSL Creswick-Smeaton RSL Daylesford RSL 5 Shire of Loddon Boort RSL Inglewood-Bridgewater RSL Mitiamo-East Loddon RSL Wedderburn-Korongvale RSL 6 Shire of Macedon Ranges Gisborne-Macedon Ranges RSL Kyneton RSL Romsey-Lancefield RSL Woodend RSL 7 Shire of Mitchell Broadford RSL Kilmore-Wallan RSL Seymour RSL 8 Shire of Moorabool Bacchus Marsh RSL Ballan RSL 9 Shire of Mount Alexander Castlemaine RSL Maldon RSL 10 Bass Coast Shire Inverloch RSL Phillip Island RSL Wonthaggi RSL 11 City of Latrobe Moe RSL Morwell RSL Traralgon RSL Yallourn-Newborough RSL 16. Community Benefits Report 2017

17 12 Shire of Baw Baw Drouin RSL Longwarry RSL Trafalgar-Thorpdale RSL Warragul RSL 13 Shire of East Gippsland Bairnsdale RSL Cann River RSL Ensay-Swifts Creek RSL Lakes Entrance RSL Mallacoota RSL Metung RSL Omeo RSL Orbost RSL Paynesville RSL 14 Shire of Wellington Briagolong RSL Heyfield RSL Loch Sport RSL Maffra RSL Rosedale RSL Sale RSL Stratford RSL Yarram RSL 15 South Gippsland Shire Fish Creek RSL Foster RSL Sub-Branch Inc Korumburra RSL Leongatha RSL Meeniyan RSL Mirboo North RSL 16 City of Greater Shepparton Dookie RSL Sub-Branch Murchison RSL Sub-Branch Shepparton RSL Sub-Branch Tatura RSL Sub-Branch 17 City of Greater Shepparton Echuca RSL Girgarre RSL Kyabram RSL Mathoura RSL Rochester RSL Rushworth RSL Stanhope RSL Tongala RSL 18 Shire of Moira Cobram-Barooga RSL Nathalia-Picola RSL Numurkah RSL Strathmerton RSL Yarrawonga-Mulwala RSL 19 Shire of Strathbogie Avenel RSL Euroa RSL Nagambie RSL Violet Town RSL 20 Alpine Shire Bright RSL Mount Beauty RSL Myrtleford RSL 21 City of Wodonga Wodonga RSL 22 Rural City of Benalla Benalla RSL 23 Rural City of Wangaratta Wangaratta RSL 24 Shire of Indigo Beechworth RSL Kiewa RSL Rutherglen RSL 25 Shire of Mansfield Mansfield RSL Woods Point RSL 26 Shire of Murrindindi Alexandra RSL Eildon RSL Marysville RSL Thornton RSL Yea-Kinglake RSL 27 Shire of Towong Corryong RSL 28 Borough of Queenscliffe Queenscliff-Point Lonsdale RSL 29 City of Greater Geelong Drysdale RSL Geelong RSL Lara RSL Norlane RSL Ocean Grove-Barwon Heads RSL Portarlington-St. Leonards RSL 30 Colac Otway Shire Apollo Bay RSL Colac RSL 31 Golden Plains Shire Inverleigh RSL Meredith RSL Rokewood RSL 32 Surf Coast Shire Anglesea RSL Lorne RSL Torquay RSL Winchelsea RSL 33 Rural City of Mildura Merbein RSL Mildura RSL Ouyen RSL Red Cliffs-Irymple RSL 34 Rural City of Swan Hill Manangatang RSL Piangil RSL Robinvale RSL Swan Hill RSL Woorinen RSL 35 Shire of Buloke Birchip RSL Charlton RSL Donald RSL Sea Lake RSL Wycheproof RSL 36 Shire of Gannawarra Cohuna-Leitchville RSL Kerang & District RSL Koondrook RSL 37 City of Warrnambool Warrnambool RSL 38 Corangamite Shire Camperdown RSL Derrinallum RSL Terang RSL 39 Pyrenees Shire Avoca RSL Ripon-Beaufort RSL 40 Rural City of Ararat Ararat RSL Lake Bolac RSL Willaura RSL 41 Shire of Glenelg Casterton RSL Heywood RSL Portland RSL 42 Shire of Moyne Macarthur RSL Mortlake RSL Port Fairy RSL 43 Shire of Southern Grampians Balmoral RSL Cavendish RSL Coleraine RSL Dunkeld RSL Hamilton RSL Penshurst RSL 44 Rural City of Horsham Horsham RSL Natimuk RSL 45 Shire of Hindmarsh Dimboola RSL Jeparit RSL Nhill RSL 46 Shire of Northern Grampians St Arnaud RSL Stawell RSL 47 Shire of West Wimmera Edenhope RSL Harrow RSL Kaniva RSL Langkoop-Apsley RSL 48 Shire of Yarriambiack Hopetoun RSL Minyip RSL Murtoa RSL Patchewollock RSL Rupanyup RSL Warracknabeal RSL 49 City of Banyule Greensborough RSL Ivanhoe RSL Montmorency-Eltham RSL Community Benefits Report

18 Watsonia RSL West Heidelberg RSL 50 City of Bayside Beaumaris RSL Hampton RSL 51 City of Boroondara Camberwell City RSL Hawthorn RSL Kew RSL North Balwyn RSL 52 City of Brimbank 1st Serbian Sunshine RSL 53 City of Casey Berwick RSL Cranbourne RSL 54 City of Darebin Darebin RSL Italian RSL Reservoir RSL 55 City of Frankston Frankston RSL Seaford RSL 56 City of Glen Eira Bentleigh RSL Caulfield RSL New Zealand RSL 57 City of Greater Dandenong Dandenong-Cranbourne RSL Noble Park RSL Springvale RSL 58 City of Hobsons Bay Altona RSL Newport RSL Polish RSL Spotswood-Kingsville RSL Williamstown RSL 59 City of Hume Sunbury RSL 60 City of Kingston Bentleigh RSL - Cheltenham Highett RSL Longbeach RSL Mentone RSL 61 City of Knox Balwyn RSL Bayswater RSL Boronia RSL 62 City of Manningham Doncaster RSL Templestowe RSL Warrandyte RSL 63 City of Maribyrnong Footscray RSL Yarraville RSL 64 City of Maroondah Croydon RSL Ringwood RSL 65 City of Melbourne BCOF Defence Sub-Branch Flemington-Kensington RSL Headquarters Interstate Transfers Korea RSL Melbourne RSL Merchant Navy RSL Returned and Servicewomen RSL Returned Nurses RSL 66 City of Melton Caroline Springs RSL Melton RSL 67 City of Monash Burwood RSL Clayton RSL Oakleigh-Carnegie RSL Red Shield RSL Waverley RSL 68 City of Moonee Valley Essendon RSL Keilor East RSL 69 City of Moreland Coburg RSL Fawkner RSL Glenroy RSL Pascoe Vale RSL 70 City of Port Phillip Hellenic RSL St Kilda RSL Turkish 71 City of Stonnington East Malvern RSL Prahran RSL Toora RSL Toorak RSL 72 City of Whitehorse Blackburn RSL Box Hill RSL 73 City of Whittlesea Epping RSL Whittlesea RSL 74 City of Wyndham Werribee RSL 75 City of Yarra Richmond RSL Tramways-East Melbourne RSL 76 Shire of Cardinia Bunyip RSL Cockatoo RSL Emerald RSL Gembrook RSL Koo Wee Rup RSL Lang Lang RSL Nar Nar Goon RSL Pakenham RSL Upper Beaconsfield RSL 77 Shire of Mornington Peninsula Crib Point RSL Dromana-Red Hill RSL Flinders RSL Hastings RSL Mornington RSL Rosebud RSL Rye RSL Sorrento-Portsea RSL 78 Shire of Nillumbik Diamond Creek-Doreen RSL Doreen RSL Hurstbridge RSL 79 Shire of Yarra Ranges Dandenong Ranges RSL Healesville RSL Lilydale RSL Monbulk RSL Mount Evelyn RSL Upper Yarra RSL Upwey-Belgrave RSL Warburton RSL Yarra Glen RSL For a full Sub-Branch directory visit INFORMATION The information and statistics contained within this report have been assembled from various sources including audited financial statements and Community Benefits Statements submitted by the VCGLR. RSL Sub- Branches have submitted much of the work they do. To the best of our knowledge, at the time of publication, all information is a true and accurate reflection of the RSL in Victoria. This report includes photography by Claire Takacs, Justin Cooper and Marcus Thomson. 18. Community Benefits Report 2017

19 Thank you We would like to thank our volunteers, members and broader community for their efforts and contribution in supporting RSL Victoria in Your commitment is inspiring, and this report demonstrates the positive impact of the community on each Sub-Branch. Looking ahead Next year, Centenary of Armistice celebrations will be underway as well as our annual Appeals and commemorative events. As always, we look forward to opportunities for community involvement because the RSL would not be who we are today without it. RSL Victoria will continue to uphold our mission to support Veterans and their families and encourage our Sub- Branches to do the same. We thank everyone involved in shaping the RSL Victoria footprint and ensuring that the RSL and the opportunities it provides have a strong presence. TOP RIGHT Dr Robert Webster OAM, RSL Victoria State President BOTTOM RIGHT Flag Party, Awards Gala, Hall of Fame 2017 Community Benefits Report

20 RSL Victoria Community Benefits Report 2017 Returned & Services League of Australia (Victoria Branch) Inc. ANZAC House 4 Collins St Melbourne VIC 3000 P: E: rslvic@rslvic.com.au W: