RSL Victoria Community Benefits Report 2015

Transcription

1 RSL Victoria Community Benefits Report 2015

2 Introduction The year 2015 has seen significant changes in the RSL Victoria network; there has been significant growth in RSL membership and major improvements to our facilities. In addition, there have been record outcomes in our ANZAC Appeal and Poppy Appeal. Attendances at commemorative events have been outstanding. This Community Benefits Report is a proud reflection of the Branch s achievements and particularly of our Sub-Branches achievements in their local communities. Support and assistance to the serving and ex-service men and women of the Australian Defence Force remains our priority, but in addition to that, our Sub-Branches support many local charities, sporting clubs, schools, kindergartens and other worthy organisations locally. Over $60 million has been contributed to Victorian communities in 2015 through a range of activities including volunteer time, financial and in-kind support, and facility development. Our volunteers continue to work tirelessly to support our objects. We have so many dedicated people within our ranks; it s a pleasure to be again highlighting some of our collective achievements for the year. Please take a moment to read our stories and to discover the difference the RSL truly does make in your local area. Major General David McLachlan AO (Retd) State President RSL Victoria Federation Square blanketed by more than 250,000 knitted poppies. Image credit: Tourism Victoria. 2. Community Benefits Report 2015

3 Contents Commemoration 4 Veteran Support 6 Community Support 8 More for Members 10 Our Volunteers 12 Employer of Choice 14 of the Year 15 es across Victoria (by LGA) 16 Community Benefits Report

4 Commemoration This is such an important part of our story; it s part of our history, but I think it reflects so much of what Australian life is about. It s a solemn day... if we can, we should, in a respectful way, celebrate the birth of a modern Australia those intrinsic values of friendship, mateship, a fair go, looking out for each other, but doing so in good humour and never taking ourselves too seriously. The Hon Daniel Andrews, MP Premier 1 ANZAC Day 2015 marked 100 years since our soldiers landed on the shores of Gallipoli, and it marked 100 years of commemorating the brave service men and women who have sacrificed so much for us. The Melbourne rain failed to deter a record number of 85,000 gathering, and Federation Square was blanketed with more than 250,000 knitted poppies donated from all around Australia and the world. ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day, along with other commemorative events on the annual calendar, create a sense of fierce pride and humble thanks in all Australians. We are ever-grateful for the contributions of our current and former service men and women and we like to show it. Estimated 800,000 at Commemorative Services State wide 85,000 at Shrine of Remembrance dawn service...the spirit of ANZAC lies not just in a place that you visit, or a book that you read or solely in the men and women of our Armed Forces of today. The spirit of ANZAC lies in us all. Those first ANZACs gave it to all of us for the rest of time. Governor-General His Excellency General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC (Retd) ANZAC Day commemorations, Melbourne. Image credit: Phillip Gao. 4. Community Benefits Report 2015

5 We are proud of the unique approach our Sub-Branches have taken to make each ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day a meaningful commemoration of our current and former serving personnel. Fundraising is integral to our Veteran Support however, given the timing of the ANZAC and Poppy Appeals they also turn the public s attention to these important commemorative days. Major General Tim McOwan speaking at the opening of Ararat RSL s statue The Ghost of Gallipoli. This year, Keilor East RSL raised an astounding $173, for the ANZAC Appeal, breaking the Victorian RSL record. In the lead up to Remembrance Day, $50,000 worth of Poppies were sold by Seaford RSL alone, and Bendigo RSL conducted ANZAC Day services in the Eaglehawk and Bendigo region with record crowds of around 12,000 to 15,000 people. In 2015, Geelong RSL volunteers conducted more than 20 ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day services in aged care facilities, and Greensborough RSL hosted 40 veterans and partners to a special Remembrance Day luncheon following a service at the Greensborough Memorial Park. Kevin Sheedy enjoying the Caulfield RSL Back to Gallipoli exhibition. Caulfield RSL s Back to Gallipoli exhibition attracted over 20,000 people and was awarded Best Small Museum in Ararat RSL acquired a federal government grant of $11,000 to erect a memorial statue titled The Ghost of Gallipoli commemorating all those who enlisted in WWI. In 2015 Box Hill RSL officially launched their publication The Sweetland Project, commemorating the twenty seven Shire of Nunawading men who were killed and buried on the Gallipoli peninsula at the beginning of WW1. Those recently returned: Operation Slipper On Saturday 21 March 2015, Australia marked the conclusion of Operation Slipper with commemorative activities conducted across each State and Territory capital city and Townsville. RSL Victoria hosted a BBQ for those who attended at the Shrine of Remembrance; show bags were offered to all children and advice was freely available from our welfare team. It was a wonderful opportunity for RSL Victoria staff to engage with members of our local defence community, both current and formerly serving and we are proud of the lead role the RSL played in bringing the day to fruition. Operation Slipper Welcome Parade Image credit: Susan Gordon-Brown. 1 / 2 Operation Slipper Welcome Parade Image credit: Susan Gordon-Brown. Community Benefits Report

6 Our core purpose is veteran welfare and secondary to that is supporting our local communities. Each RSL Sub- Branch takes the time to understand the needs of their Veteran community and assist in a variety of ways, such as health promotion, social interaction, advocacy, financial support, and so much else if there s a way the RSL can help, we will be there. ANZAC House, home of the RSL Victoria State Branch. 6. Community Benefits Report 2015

7 Veteran Support Help where it s needed Veterans throughout Victoria can always approach their local RSL for assistance in times of need. This is the core function of why we exist. RSL Victoria also has a direct service provision at ANZAC House in Melbourne, where Veterans can make an unsolicited approach and where Sub-Branches may refer Veterans in need. Jeff Jackson, our Manager of Pensions, Advocacy and Welfare Support, managed over 400 Veteran Welfare cases in 2015, assisting with needs that are crucial to maintaining the quality of life for our veterans. The Welfare expenditure of ANZAC House alone was over 1.1 million in 2015 this included, but was not limited to, assistance paying utilities, food vouchers, emergency short-term accommodation, and much more. Greensborough RSL spent some time in 2015 modifying the home of a young Army veteran who was injured upon returning to Australia, including the purchase of a motorized bed, upgrading shower facilities, installing self-opening doors and windows, as well as supporting his ongoing rehabilitation program. Caring for our veterans and their families includes a proper send-off, and the RSL aims to go above and beyond when it comes to saying goodbye to a beloved family member. Keilor East RSL prides itself on their RSL Funeral services, which includes a eulogy, $300 subsidy towards food at the RSL wake or a $100 donation to a charity of choice, and gifts to the family, including certificates, an Australian flag, and flowers. Veterans are our priority always On days such as ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day, our nation unites to honour the courage and sacrifice of those who have served. However, for the members, staff and volunteers of the RSL, our dedication to the wellbeing of the Veteran community is not limited to a couple of days; it is a year round commitment. Seaford RSL hosts the Service Members Coffee Club fortnightly a chance for veterans to get together and discuss issues and ideas in a relaxed, communal environment, often featuring guest speakers. They ve also provided continued support for a Veteran family with three autistic children, as well as an assistance dog to a returned solder through the Young Diggers Dog program. Through Geelong RSL s Home and Hospital Visitor Program, a volunteer team regularly visits 15 aged care facilities in the Geelong region, providing companionship and support where it s needed. Geelong RSL volunteers also packaged up and sent 350 Christmas parcels to the Veteran Community, and more than $75,000 was provided specifically for welfare support over the period. Jeff Jackson, Manager of Pensions, Advocacy and Welfare Support. Caulfield RSL provided RSL Vasey House with $3500 worth of gymnasium equipment to facilitate a low impact exercise program for veterans, and Altona RSL converted 75% of their property next door into a Veterans Pension Centre. Ararat RSL provides a number of free services to veterans and widows/widowers, including gardening, a mobile visiting hair dresser, and weekly visits to homes, hospitals and nursing homes. Epping RSL hosted a fundraiser event Mates 4 Mutzy to aid a veteran s son who requires ongoing medical treatment. The day was a fantastic success with entertainment and appearances from AFL Players and local celebrities, raising $27,540. Brad Mutz and father Arty Mutz, touched by the overwhelming support at Epping RSL fundraiser Mates 4 Mutzy. Community Benefits Report

8 Community Support The approach each Sub-Branch takes to contributing to our community is as unique as the individuals behind them. The RSL supports schools, the elderly, the sick, sporting clubs and community organisations by fundraising, sponsoring and providing necessary facilities. Box Hill RSL provides a twice yearly isolated persons luncheon for up to 140 people living in aged care facilities or at home with limited family support. Transport and a sumptuous 2 course meal, bar refreshments, live entertainment and small gift are provided and the event centres on singing, dancing and laughter. The Welfare Committee of Epping RSL regularly organise hospital bags containing necessary toiletries to be delivered when the Committee visits aged care homes, nursing homes and hospitals. $5.9+ million in community support donations $60+ million total community benefit Seaford RSL raised $4500 for Royal Children s Hospital on Good Friday and Reservoir RSL provides necessary funds to the local council every year to distribute Christmas hampers for the underprivileged. Ararat RSL provided defibrillators to 17 sporting clubs in the region, and the Keilor East RSL Knitting Team produced 175 jumpers and 150 beanies for babies at clinics in Papua New Guinea. Each year, Geelong RSL awards up to 30 Schools Assist Grants, sponsoring disadvantaged children to attend the Lord Mayor s Camp. Greensborough RSL continues to sponsor the Living Spirit Fellowship, which offers a student the opportunity to attend the ANZAC Day service at Hellfire Pass. Frankston RSL donated a large shade sail for the Naranga Special School BBQ area. The Whitehorse Day Club members at Box Hill RSL enjoying their free gifts courtesy of Woolworths. 8. Community Benefits Report 2015

9 Every one of our Sub-Branches is a not-for-profit entity in its own right. All revenue generated commercially is injected back into the local economy, either as Veteran welfare support, sponsorships, grants or assistance for other worthy causes, or through re-development and enhancement of our services and facilities to better attend to the needs of our members and guests. Local family enjoying the bistro at Bentleigh RSL. Community Benefits Report

10 More for Members RSL Almost 170,000 RSL members in Victoria Member growth of 13,341 $1.5M+ RSL Rewards points given away $10+ million in redevelopment As our membership continues to grow, our focus is firmly on delivering the best possible experience each and every time. Members are the centre of our commercial operations and are integral to our welfare and community support work. More often than not, our volunteers are our members; those who actively support their local Sub-Branch business as well as their welfare and fundraising activities. Listening and responding to member s needs This year, the RSL introduced a number of initiatives to address our member s needs in an efficient and contemporary way. In 2015, our online membership renewal portal was launched for the first time, attracting over 2000 members to renew online. In addition to this, the RSL also launched a three-year membership term, which was well received by our members. The RSL regularly s 50,000 RSL members, and have also released a new membership card to celebrate the Centenary of the RSL. A number of Sub-Branches have created smart phone apps to ensure their members stay connected and up-to-date on activities and benefits. The Ringwood RSL app sends a notification on special events, and the Bentleigh RSL app features live sport. The Ararat RSL app offers discount coupons and special offers for users, as well as access to the Members Zone and the chance to win prizes. All members of the RSL in Victoria automatically receive benefits and opportunities to win amazing, once in a lifetime experiences through our loyalty program; RSL Rewards. Mark Sherlock, RSL Victoria Chief Executive Officer LEFT Bairnsdale RSL member Margaret and her brand-new Hyundai, courtesy of RSL Rewards and Hyundai Australia. 10. Community Benefits Report 2015

11 Making members happy From providing a free birthday lunch, to genealogy groups and weekly haircuts; each Sub-Branch is dedicated to keeping their members happy. Seaford RSL holds Easter and Christmas giveaways each year with over $1500 worth of prizes up for grabs. At Altona RSL, members enjoy free entertainment on Friday nights and have the opportunity to enter three separate weekly draws. Ararat RSL distributed free show bags as part of their Just for being a current member campaign. Box Hill RSL provide podiatry consultations, orthotics, walking aids and recently, a motorised wheel chair. Reservoir RSL hosts an annual Christmas picnic for member s children and grandchildren, featuring a visit from Santa, gifts for children, animal nursery, reptile show, face painting, clown and a kids karaoke show. RSL Rewards In 2015, members won in excess of $250,000 worth of prizes through RSL Rewards including Herbert Pilson from Watsonia RSL and Margaret Hannington from Bairnsdale RSL who each won a new car. Bill Shea from Watsonia RSL won a trip of a lifetime on an APT cruise through Europe. Winter escapes to Queensland were won by Margo Magee from Bentleigh RSL, Trevor Cantwell from Geelong RSL, John Mills from Reservoir RSL, Brendan Bosse from Caulfield RSL and Gary McPherson from Geelong RSL. The modern RSL Many Sub-Branches across Victoria upgraded their facilities to ensure the satisfaction of our members. Seaford RSL has extended their kitchen to meet growing demands, including the construction of a new cool room and freezer. They continue to produce an average of 2000 meals per week. Lakes Entrance RSL had a makeover recently, spending almost $120K repainting the external walls and the bistro, as well as upgrading their driveway to enable easier access to patrons. To address the growing interest in the Box Hill RSL Bowls Section, the Sub-Branch spent $143K refurbishing the offices, kitchenette and the addition of unisex toilets. Epping RSL recently constructed a dedicated Member s Room, complete with a pool table and member s bar. It is also home to two of the largest TV screens in Victoria. Rosebud RSL have spent almost $400K on refurbishing toilet facilities and upgrading exterior paving and entrances to the Sub-Branch. ABOVE Children enjoy visits from Santa and nursery animals at Reservoir RSL s annual Christmas picnic. Community Benefits Report

12 Our Volunteers 15,000+ volunteers across the network 724,000+ volunteer hours $15 million+ in volunteer hours $8 million raised in 2015 through ANZAC and Poppy Appeals The hard work and dedication shown by the thousands of volunteers who assist with Appeals, memorabilia, school services, funerals and general welfare activities makes the RSL what it is today. Without them and the unwavering loyalty they show every day, we simply wouldn t exist. The Phillip Island RSL Breakfast Club. 12. Community Benefits Report 2015

13 Volunteers work throughout the RSL in many and varying capacities that all, in their own way, make a valuable contribution to our ongoing mission. The Epping RSL group of Poppy Ladies have been getting together since before ANZAC Appeal last year, making more than 3000 individual poppies to commemorate the ANZAC Centenary. They continue to make warm blankets, knee rugs and head wear - all of which are donated to the Heidelberg Repat Hospital, the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness & Research Centre and many other patients in need. The Poppy Ladies have also partnered with the Australian National Veteran Arts Museum to facilitate art based programs for their local defence community. Headed up by husband and wife team, Bruce and Helen Shelton, the Phillip Island RSL Breakfast Club team get up early each Wednesday morning to prepare a healthy breakfast for the school children at Cowes Primary School. Ron Summers has been the Appeals Officer at the Greensborough RSL for the past 6 years and in that time has exceeded year by year for badge selling - if for some reason a seller cannot make his or her shift, Ron is the man that goes out and does that shift as well. Hall of Fame inductees 2015 Each year, the RSL recognises our most dedicated by inducting them into our Hall of Fame. Employees and volunteers from across the state attended an awards night featuring guest speakers, a three course meal, and a variety of entertainment. It was a fabulous night and the perfect way to honour those who give the most to the RSL and their communities. Reita Cullen has been associated with Sunshine RSL since 2003, and with her late husband Bill, Reita was responsible for the sale of over $100,000 worth of poppies and badges over a 16 year period. Having been on the Altona RSL Committee for over 11 years, Patricia Franks has made sure the Sub-Branch is on top of all correspondence and compliance. She is also on call to offer advice and support to the traditional Sub-Branches in the area and they are grateful for her help and assistance. Brian Luscombe has held the position of Healesville RSL President for four years - he is passionate about the role of the RSL and personally volunteers over 400 hours of his time to the Committee, Welfare issues and Commemorations work. John Beslee is the Treasurer of Seaford RSL, and has focussed on making sure that every fundraising opportunity is maximised; the fundraising growth Seaford has seen in the 10 years he has been involved is a testament to his skill and experience. Reita Cullen in tears upon receiving her Hall of Fame award. John Beslee, Seaford RSL Treasurer Patricia Franks, Altona RSL Secretary The Epping RSL Poppy Ladies. Community Benefits Report

14 Employer of Choice 2,000+ employees state wide $65+ million in employee wages We are very proud of our people, those who volunteer and those we employ. As a collective, the RSL network contributes significantly to charity giving in Victorian communities and we remain a significant hospitality and entertainment employer. We appreciate our staff members who exemplify the mission of the RSL through their daily conduct; they make each the respected establishments they are today. In her twenty years of working for Rosebud RSL, Juanita Mitchell has worked in waitressing, the kitchen, the gaming room and bar, reception and administration. She is considered to be a huge inspiration to other staff and members for her willingness to take on additional tasks and learn any new skills necessary. Narelle Hart, Manager of Epping RSL and recipient of Sub-Branch Manager of the Year, has assisted in the development of responsible gaming initiatives that have been shared and adopted by other RSL venues she regularly collaborates with the Victorian Commission for Gaming and Liquor Regulation as well as Gambler s Help, providing sound insight to the industry. Since Leigh Proud s appointment as Manager of the Longbeach RSL, he has carefully reviewed the practices and operating costs of the Sub-Branch and has achieved some remarkable results by implementing new procedures. Operating profits are substantially healthier as result of his efforts and the support of his Committee and staff. Bar sales at Altona RSL are showing fantastic increases year on year, rising by 19.5%, and at Ararat RSL, food and beverage revenue has exceeded industry standards with a combined increase of 35% since its rebuild in Leigh Proud, Manager of Longbeach RSL. Our Sub-Branches also form a devoted network across the state Geelong RSL often lends support to other Sub-Branches, providing training on how to conduct commemorative services and ensuring es deliver services consistently. Reservoir RSL donated $10,000 to Crib Point RSL to assist with welfare and operational challenges. 14. Community Benefits Report 2015

15 2015 Sub-Branch of the Year The Sub-Branch of the Year Award acknowledges an individual Sub-Branch that has successfully promoted all aspects of the RSL. This year s worthy recipient was Frankston RSL. Meeting and exceeding expectations of community support, veteran assistance and commercial enterprise in 2015, Frankston RSL contributed over 32,000 volunteer hours to veterans, their families and the local community. First and foremost, the existence of the RSL is to support our veterans and their families. Frankston RSL s Hello Campaign demonstrated this, contacting over 750 Service members over the age of 75 with the simple intention of checking in. This included a survey providing them the option to prioritise a need, such as lawn mowing, house cleaning, regular visits, etc. Also, over the period of 2014 and 2015, they provided over 1600 complimentary meals to veterans and elderly in the community. The Frankston RSL Community Support program continues to provide genuine commitment to over 45 local organisations. In 2015, they committed $9,000 to support three nurses at Peninsula Private Oncology in courses with the McGrath Foundation. They also donated $10,000 to refurbish an old barn at Sages Cottage Farm, enabling people with a disability to be educated in farming practices and caring for animals. As well as showing an unparalleled commitment to supporting the local community, Frankston RSL is also dedicated to keeping their members happy. In 2015, Frankston RSL gave away an excess of $800,000 in promotions and member benefits, and averaged nearly 5,000 meals per week throughout the food areas. They also built a new Veterans room, Staff room and Memorial Garden at a cost of $1.1 million. In 2015, Frankston RSL collected over 2000 tins of food for local community organisation, City Life. Raymond, a happy winner of a hamper thanks to Frankston RSL s 24 Days of Christmas member promotion. Frankston Manager Rob Morrison said his Sub-Branch was thrilled to win the 2015 honor of being RSL Victoria Sub-Branch of the year. Sub-Branch of the Year is a fantastic reward for a very committed, loyal and hard working team across Committee, management, staff and volunteers. Of course we do it all for the Veteran community and our members. Mr Morrison said. Frankston RSL management and Committee accepting their award at the Hall of Fame Awards Night. Rob Morrison has been a highly driven and dynamic manager in the RSL network for over a decade and was also personally rewarded with induction into the RSL Hall of Fame at the special ceremony in November. I feel very humbled and honoured to be recognised in such a manner within such a respected organisation. Mr Morrison said. Frankston RSL is certainly a deserving recipient of Sub- Branch of the Year, and an indication of the commitment the RSL has to looking after our veterans and bettering our local community. The Frankston RSL Dawn Service was estimated to have over 10,000 people in attendance, almost completely covering Frankston Football Oval. Community Benefits Report

16 es across Victoria (By LGA) Following is a list of Sub-Branches ordered by Local Government. Licensed Sub-Branches with gaming are highlighted in bold. 1 Alpine Shire Council Bright Kiewa Mount Beauty Myrtleford 2 Ararat Rural City Council Ararat Lake Bolac Willaura Ballarat City Council Ballarat Buninyong Sebastopol Banyule City Council Greensborough Ivanhoe Montmorency/Eltham RSL Sub-Branch Watsonia West Heidelberg 5 Bass Coast Shire Council Inverloch Phillip Island Wonthaggi 6 Baw Baw Shire Council Drouin Longwarry Trafalgar/Thorpdale Warragul TOP Local Government Areas - Victoria Bottom Local Government Areas - Melbourne Bayside City Council Beaumaris Hampton 8 Benalla Rural City Council Benalla 9 Boroondara City Council Balwyn Camberwell Hawthorn Kew North Balwyn 10 Brimbank City Council First Serbian Sunshine 11 Buloke Shire Council Birchip Charlton Donald Sea Lake Wycheproof 16. Community Benefits Report 2015

17 12 Campaspe Shire Council Echuca Girgarre Gunbower Kyabram Rochester Rushworth Stanhope Tongala 13 Cardinia Shire Council Bunyip Cockatoo Gembrook Koo Wee Rup Lang Lang Nar Nar Goon Pakenham Upper Beaconsfield 14 Casey City Council Berwick 15 Central Goldfields Shire Council Maryborough Talbot 16 Colac Otway Apollo Bay Colac 17 Corangamite Shire Council Camperdown Derrinallum, Lismore & District Terang 18 Darebin City Council Darebin Reservoir 19 East Gippsland Shire Council Bairnsdale Cann River Ensay/Swifts Creek Lakes Entrance Mallacoota Metung Omeo Orbost Paynesville 20 Frankston City Council Frankston Peninsula Exservicewomen Seaford 21 Gannawarra Shire Council Cohuna/Leitchville Kerang & District Koondrook 22 Glen Eira City Council Bentleigh Caulfield New Zealand 23 Glenelg Shire Council Casterton Heywood Portland 24 Golden Plains Shire Council Inverleigh Meredith Rokewood 25 Greater Bendigo City Council Bendigo District Elmore Heathcote Kangaroo Flat 26 Greater Dandenong City Council Dandenong/Cranbourne Noble Park Springvale 27 Greater Geelong City Council Drysdale Geelong Lara Norlane Barwon Heads/Ocean Grove Portarlington/St Leonards 28 Greater Shepparton City Council Dookie Murchison Shepparton Tatura 29 Hepburn Shire Council Clunes Creswick/Smeaton Daylesford 30 Hindmarsh Shire Council Dimboola Jeparit Nhill 31 Hobsons Bay City Council Altona Newport Spotswood/Kingsville Williamstown 32 Horsham Rural City Council Horsham Natimuk 33 Hume City Council Korea Veterans Sunbury 34 Indigo Shire Council Beechworth Kiewa Rutherglen 35 Kingston City Council Highett Longbeach Mentone 36 Knox City Council Bayswater Boronia 37 Latrobe City Council Moe Morwell Traralgon Yallourn/Newbrough 38 Loddon Shire Council Boort Dunolly/Bealiba Inglewood/Bridgewater Mitiamo/East Loddon 39 Macedon Ranges Shire Council Gisborne/Macedon Ranges Kyneton Romsey/Lancefield Woodend 40 Manningham City Council Doncaster Templestowe Warrandyte 41 Mansfield Shire Council Heyfield Mansfield Woods Point 42 Maribyrnong City Council Footscray Yarraville 43 Maroondah City Council Croydon Ringwood 44 Melbourne City Council Angles City BCOF Malta/George Cross Melbourne Merchant Navy Returned Nurses Returned & Servicewomen Victorian Chemists 45 Melton City Council Caroline Springs Melton 46 Mildura Rural City Council Merbein Mildura Ouyen Red Cliffs/Irymple 47 Mitchell Shire Council Broadford Kilmore Seymour 48 Moira Shire Council Cobram Barooga Nathalia/Picola Numurkah Strathmerton Yarrawonga/Mulwala Community Benefits Report

18 49 Monash City Council Clayton Oakleigh/Carnegie Polish Red Shield Waverley 50 Moonee Valley City Council Essendon Flemington/Kensington Keilor East 51 Moorabool Shire Council Bacchus Marsh Ballan 52 Moreland City Council Coburg Fawkner Glenroy Italian Pascoe Vale 53 Mornington Peninsula Shire Council Crib Point Dromana/Red Hill Flinders Hastings Mornington Rosebud Rye Sorrento/Portsea 54 Mount Alexander Shire Council Castlemaine Maldon 55 Moyne Shire Council Macarthur Mortlake Port Fairy 56 Murrindini Shire Council Alexandra Eildon Marysville Thornton Yea/Kinglake 57 Nillumbik Shire Council Diamond Creek/Doreen Hurtsbridge 58 Northern Grampians Shire Council St Arnaud Stawell 59 Port Philip City Council Hellenic St Kilda Turkish 60 Pyrenees Shire Council Avoca Ripon/Beaufort 61 Borough of Queenscliffe Council Queenscliff/Point Lonsdale 62 South Gippsland Shire Council Fish Creek Foster Korumburra Leongatha Meeniyan Mirboo North Toora 63 Southern Grampians Shire Council Balmoral Cavendish Coleraine Dunkeld Hamilton Penshurst 64 Stonnington City Council East Malvern Prahran Toorak 65 Strathbogie Shire Council Avenel Euroa Nagambie Violet Town 66 Surf Coast Shire Council Anglesea Lorne Torquay Winchelsea 67 Swan Hill Rural City Council Manangatang Piangil Robinvale Swan Hill Woorinen 68 Towong Shire Council Corryong 69 Wangaratta Rural City Council Wangaratta Whitfield 70 Warrnambool City Council Warrnambool 71 Wellington Shire Council Briagolong Loch Sport Maffra Sale Stratford Yarram 72 West Wimmera Shire Council Edenhope Harrow Kaniva Langkoop/Apsley 73 Whitehorse City Council Blackburn Box Hill Burwood 74 Whittlesea City Council Epping Whittlesea 75 Wodonga City Council Wodonga 76 Wyndham City Council Werribee 77 Yarra City Council Richmond Tramways/East Melb 78 Yarra Ranges Shire Council Dandenong Ranges Emerald Healesville Lilydale Monbulk Mount Evelyn Upper Yarra Upwey/Belgrave Warburton Wedderburn/Korongvale Yarra Glen 79 Yarriambiack Shire Council Hopetoun Minyip Murtoa Patchewollock Rupanyup Warracknabeal For a full Sub-Branch directory complete with contact details, visit INFORMATION The information and statistics contained within this report have been assembled from various sources including: audited figures from the 2015 community benefits statements lodged with the VCGLR, RSL Victoria appeals department, news sources online, Hall of Fame submissions by RSL Subbranches in To the best of our knowledge, all information contained within this report was accurate at the time of printing. 18. Community Benefits Report 2015

19 With Thanks We thank our Sub-Branches for their tireless dedication to the work of the RSL across Victoria. We also thank them for helping us assemble this report. To the Committees, volunteers, management and staff that helped, thank you. Looking ahead 2016 will mark 100 years of the RSL and there are a number of initiatives planned to celebrate our Centenary. The core work of RSL Victoria is to commemorate and provide support to Veterans and the wider community; that is what we have done for 100 years and that is what we will continue to do. We will also continue to deliver great value to our members and be regarded as a reputable employer, ensuring we are the best we can possibly be. CLOCKWISE FROM TOP John, member for 7 years, is always met with a friendly greeting at Bentleigh RSL. Epping RSL Manager Narelle Hart, recipient of Sub-Branch Manager of the Year, with RSL Victoria Chief Operations Officer Brian Cairns. Life member and committed volunteer John Morris with staff member Jacqueline Taylor at Longbeach RSL. Community Benefits Report

20 RSL Victoria Community Benefits Report 2015 Returned & Services League of Australia (Victoria Branch) Inc. ANZAC House 4 Collins St Melbourne VIC 3000 P: E: rslvic@rslvic.com.au W: