Download PDF version of the Sub-Branch Signal
From the State President
National
The leadership of the National President has sharpened the focus of the role of RSL Australia in the fabric of the Returned and Services League. I make this observation as it has meaningful impact on how RSL WA, our Sub-Branches and members approach our various obligations.
Within the federation, support to veterans, the policy framework and key levers (funding) are the responsibility of the Federal Government. States are (or should be) more focussed on service delivery. Aligned with this is RSL Australia’s central role as big ‘A’ advocacy. What this consists of is representing the interests of veterans and their families to the Federal Government. This comes in many forms and includes evidence and papers to Senate Estimates, influence in the halls of Parliament and within key agencies such as the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Enabling this key function are key functions such as policy development and media and communications. Thus, RSL Australia holds a coordination role with the ‘members’; RSL WA is a member of RSL Australia.
State
The national context is critical when considering the investment made into the Indian Ocean Defence and Security Conference (IODS). RSL Australia, Legacy Australia, RSL WA and Legacy WA partnered to present a united approach to Defence Industry, Government and other key stakeholders from Australia and around the world. The problem faced by IODS is one of National Defence. This has been outlined in the recently released National Defence Strategy. From an RSL perspective, central to the challenge of National Defence was the question posed to delegates ‘how do we unlock the latent capacity of 580,000 veterans across Australia?’. In practice at IODS this involved RSL Australia engaging in policy discussions, while RSL WA directly engaged with stakeholders as an exhibitor.
Key services of RSL WA, including RSL Active and Workforce Connect, were on display. Workforce Connect is our emerging employment and transition program. The program provides a tangible avenue for veterans and their families to connect with employers. In this instance employers were predominately in the Defence Industry. RSL Active continues to go from strength to strength, providing clear purpose and connection for veterans and family members in activities across Western Australia. Finally, the Better Together Ball was held during IODS. With over 1,100 attendees, RSL WA and Legacy WA again demonstrated to all involved the benefit of working together. Pleasingly, material funds were raised that will directly support services delivered by RSL WA.
The Board of RSL WA met in early June. Our focus was dominated by State Congress and the recently completed independent review of the Board and Trustees. Preparations for State Congress are advanced. We are looking forward to hosting Sub-Branches and our guests at Anzac House for the 110th State Congress of RSL WA. The program will again commence on Friday (26 June) with presentations and meetings held on Saturday (27 June).
The independent review of the Board and Trustees will be presented to delegates at State Congress. However, I am pleased to report that the Board has demonstrated improvement since the first independent review in 2024. Moreover, there is a clear approach for continued improvement in the upcoming two years. Finally, succession planning for directors and State President for 2027 was discussed with a clear approach agreed.
Final thoughts
Recent positive events hosted and involving RSL WA here in Western Australia should fill us all with pride. The collegiate approach taken by veterans in Western Australia is leading the Nation. RSL Australia and RSL WA are playing their part in National Defence. Our motto is as relevant now as it was when drafted over a century ago.
‘The price of liberty is eternal vigilance.’
All the best.
Duncan Anderson
State President, RSL WA
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From the CEO
Last month saw us ‘soft launch’ our new RSL WA Workforce Connect program. The purpose of this new program is to provide employment and transition services for veterans. While we will be open to all sectors, we do have a specific interest in the growing defence industry in Western Australia.
Through AUKUS, HMAS Stirling will become the homeport for an Australian sovereign nuclear-powered submarine fleet. This is an enormous endeavour, one of the most ambitious tasks this country has embarked upon. It will require enormous investments in infrastructure and people – the workforce demands alone over the next decade are immense.
Indeed, we note the aspiration of the State Government to see the defence sector overtake agriculture as the second largest sector of the state’s economy behind the mining and resources.
Veterans will clearly be part of the workforce solution. And there is a clear role for the RSL in helping veterans with both employment and transition. The program will commence formally on 1 July this year.
We are also seeking to build relationships with defence industry. There are logical connections to be made as we roll out Workforce Connect and the Goldsworthy Centre.
I’d like to congratulate John Arco (Highgate) and Dr Atul Garg (Applecross) for their awarding of the Medal of the Order of Australia in the King’s Birthday Honours List. Both awards are richly deserved. Congratulations gentlemen.
This month also saw the passing of former RSL WA Trustee Wayne Tarr. An RSL member for 37 years and RSL WA Trustee for 20 years, only retiring in August 2023, Wayne also served for 30 years in the Citizen Military Forces and then the Australian Army Reserve. A devoted servant of the League (and the community), Wayne leaves behind an outstanding legacy.
Stephen Barton
CEO, RSL WA
Veteran Services Monthly Update
Damien Roper – Veteran Services Manager
Building connections: reducing social isolation among Western Australian veterans
For many veterans, the transition from military service to civilian life can bring significant changes to their social networks and sense of belonging. The camaraderie, shared purpose and strong support systems that exist within military life are not always easily replaced, leaving some veterans vulnerable to social isolation and loneliness.
In Western Australia, the challenges can be even greater for veterans living in regional and remote communities, where distance and limited access to services can make it difficult to maintain social connections. Social isolation is more than simply being alone – it can have a profound impact on mental health, physical wellbeing and overall quality of life.
Reducing social isolation requires a community effort. Veteran organisations, including RSL WA and its Sub-Branches, play a vital role in creating opportunities for connection through social activities, commemorative events, welfare support, volunteer opportunities and peer engagement programs. These activities help veterans maintain meaningful relationships, build new networks and remain connected to their communities.
Family members, friends and fellow veterans also have an important role to play. A simple phone call, invitation for a coffee, or check-in can make a significant difference to someone who may be feeling disconnected. Small acts of connection often have a lasting impact.
As a community, we can all contribute to ensuring that no veteran feels forgotten or alone. By fostering inclusion, encouraging participation and strengthening local support networks, we can help veterans continue to enjoy the sense of belonging and mateship that has always been central to military service. And a reminder that a veteran who reaches out for support doesn’t need to be an RSL member to gain that support. We’re for all veterans.
If you know a veteran who may be experiencing social isolation, reach out. Connection starts with a conversation.
Goldsworthy Centre update
Janine Gardner – Goldsworthy Centre Manager
A sneaky peek inside…
A picture says a thousand words, and as you can see, the build of the Goldsworthy Centre is progressing really well.
The internal walls and partitions are going up, and we now have a new roof and exterior cladding in place.
Over the coming weeks, a new facade will begin to take shape, and the kitchen and laundry will be fitted out. Even more exciting is that the Goldsworthy team is beginning
to grow, with our first Liaison Officer now onboard to help with the project and then support veterans and families once we move in.
Behind the scenes, we're also continuing to source furniture and fittings to make the centre feel comfortable and relaxed – and we simply can't wait to open.
Progress is happening fast, so keep an eye out for more updates soon!
The Better Together Ball 2026
A huge thank you to all who attended the Better Together Ball on Wednesday 27 May.
Through our combined efforts, we filled a room with 1,100 people and raised over $248,000 for WA veterans and their families.
All funds are distributed evenly between RSL WA and Legacy WA. The proceeds will enable RSL WA to expand core programs like RSL Active, Workforce Connect and more. For Legacy WA, the investment will support development of their long-standing Busselton location where they conduct respite and camp programs for kids.
A special thank you to Defence West, AMDA Foundation Limited, and Hon Paul Papalia CSC MLA for your support delivering this event. Together we united the Defence Industry, Government and ADF Officials towards a singular purpose – the wellbeing of WA veterans and their families.
RSL Activation – Gary Ramage Exhibition
When: Thursday 25 June 2026
Time: 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Where: Level 1, Anzac House, 28 St Georges Tce Perth
Register: RSVP
This special evening will feature a curated exhibition of Gary Ramage's photography displayed throughout the venue, followed by an intimate Q&A session with Gary and a guest journalist.
Gary is one of Australia's most accomplished conflict photographers and a veteran of 20 years' service in the Australian Army. His work has documented conflicts in Somalia, Bosnia, Iraq and Afghanistan, and is held in national collections including the Australian War Memorial and the National Library of Australia. He is also a three-time Walkley Award recipient.
Gary has made a selection of his work for display at Anzac House, creating a unique opportunity to explore the stories, experiences and perspectives behind some of Australia's most compelling images of conflict and service.
Canapés will be provided, proudly sponsored by RSL Active, and a bar will be available for guests to purchase refreshments.
It would be wonderful to have you join us for what promises to be a fascinating evening of storytelling, reflection, and connection with fellow members, partners and supporters of the veteran community.
© 2026. Gary Ramage Photography. These images are the property of Gary Ramage and protected by international copyright laws. No images may be downloaded, reproduced, or used without express written permission Gary Ramage. These images may be purchased or licensed from garyramage.com.
110th State Congress
State Congress and the Annual General Meeting will be held over two days again. On Friday 26 June 2026 we invite Sub-Branches to Anzac House to celebrate our Award Presentations, and on Saturday 27 June RSL WA’s State Congress and Annual General Meeting will take place on Level 5 at Anzac House.
Sub-Branch committees will be advised of the 110th State Congress program guide, including Agenda Item Submissions and Delegate Proxy nomination forms shortly. If you do not receive the email, please contact admin@rslwa.org.au.
Motions will be reviewed by the Constitution Committee prior to submission to the Board of Directors. Handwritten or unclear motions/submissions will not be accepted and the sender so advised.
Member recognition
We extend our congratulations to two of our members, Dr Atul Garg and John Arco, on being awarded the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in the King’s Birthday Honours List.
Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM)
Dr Atul Kumar Garg
For service to the community through a range of organisations.
Neighbourhood Watch
• Member, State Board, since 2017.
• Committee Chair, City of Melville, since 2008.
• Area Co-ordinator, City of Melville, since 2003.
• Suburb Manager, Winthrop, 2001-2003.
• Street Representative, 1993-2001.
Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia
• Ambassador, 2022.
• Member and Campaigner, since 2009.
The Returned and Services League of Australia, Applecross Sub-Branch
• Acting President, current.
• Vice President, current.
• Warden, current.
• Member, since 2020.
Community
• Justice of the Peace, since 2004.
• Member, Winthrop-Murdoch Community Group, since 2006.
• Founder, Ozind Golf Club, 2008; Patron, since 2020.
• Chair, High Technology Club, Murdoch University, since 2017.
• Founder and Chairperson, Institute of Electronics and Telecommunication Engineers Australia, since 2017.
• Member, Carer’s Advisory Council, 2011-2013.
Federation of Indian Associations of Western Australia
• Founder President, 2017-2021.
• Patron, since 2021.
Indian Society of Western Australia
• Council Member, since 2021.
• Individual Community Service Excellence Lakhwara Award Winner.
• President, 2006-2008.
• Committee Member 1995-2010
• Life Member.
Hindu Association of Western Australia Inc
• Member, since 1993.
• Member, Board of Trustees, 1994-2025.
• President, 2003-2005.
• Vice President, 2001-2003.
• Secretary, 1998-2000.
• Executive Committee Member, 1996-1998.
Hindi Samaj of Western Australia
• Life Member.
• Co-Founder and Treasurer, 1996-1997.
Awards and Recognition include:
• Community Service Excellence Lahkwara Award, Indian Society of Western Australia, 2010.
• Letter of Appreciation, Murdoch University, 2022.
• Letter of Appreciation, Institute of Electronics and Telecommunication Engineers India, 2022.
• Certificate of Commendation, Fortescue Metals Group, 2021.
• True Colours Award, Fortescue Metals Group, 2021.
• Citizen of the Year, City of Melville, 2014.
• Ethnic Volunteer of the Year, Volunteering Western Australia, 2012.
• Mayor’s Valued Citizen Award, City of Melville, 2011.
• Australasian Volunteer of the Year, Neighbourhood Watch Australasia, 2011.
• Outstanding Achievement by an Individual, Western Australian Multicultural Community Service Award, 2007.
• Outstanding Commitment to Community Service by an Individual, Western Australian Community Service Award, 2006.
• Commendation by Chief of Naval Staff, Indian Navy, 1992.
• Commendation by Commander in Chief, Indian Navy, 1988.
Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division
Mr Giovanni Arco (John)
For service to veterans.
Royal Australian Army Ordnance Corps Association (Western Australia)
• Secretary, since 2016.
• Organiser, National Reunion, 2020.
Highgate RSL Sub-Branch of the Returned and Services League of Australia (Western Australia)
• Member, since 2022.
• Member, Honour Avenues Group (Kings Park), since 2023.
• Sub-Warden, State War Memorial, since 2024.
• Volunteer, Legacy Western Australia, since 2025.
Vale Wayne Tarr
It is with great sadness that RSL WA acknowledges the passing of long-standing former Board Trustee MAJ Wayne Tarr, aged 84.
The following is a tribute to Wayne Tarr's life. We thank Ray Galliott for providing this information.
Vale: Major Wayne Gordon Tarr, RFD, ED (RL)
(30 April 1942 – 5 June 2026)
Wayne Tarr was born in Western Australia and educated at Kent Street High School before starting a career with the Crown Law Department.
Between 1958 and 1980, Mr Tarr worked in various courts and offices of the Crown Law Department, including country courts. He held the position of deputy registrar at the Family Court of WA for five years from 1980, before moving to the WA Supreme Court where he worked as deputy registrar and administrative officer. In 1987 he was appointed as stipendiary magistrate and retired from that position in April 2007.
He enlisted in the CMF in 1959 with 10 Company Royal Australian Army Service Corps (RAASC). He was promoted through the ranks to Sergeant and was commissioned and appointed to the rank of 2nd Lieutenant in 1966. He served in postings as Transport Officer, Supply Officer and Admin Officer until 1969 when he visited South Vietnam on a familiarisation tour and was attached to 1 Transport Coy RAASC.
A transfer to the country with his civilian employment in 1971 made it necessary to transfer to the 28th Battalion, Royal Western Australia Regiment, a special conditions unit raised to cater for National Service Deferees, in order to continue with the CMF. He served as Transport Officer and then as an Infantry Platoon Commander before changing Corps to Infantry.
While posted to the 28th Battalion, Royal Western Australia Regiment, he filled the post of Transport Officer and then became an Infantry Platoon Commander. Promotions to Captain and Major followed and postings with 16 RWAR, 28 RWAR as Company Commander and on HQ 5th Military District, staff postings as SO2 Operations, second-in-command of 11/28th RWAR and Brigade Major of 13th Brigade, completed his Army Reserve service, retiring in 1989.
In 1984 he was nominated for attendance at the Tac 5 Course at LWC, Canungra for promotion to Lieutenant Colonel, but because of civilian employment promotion examinations, had to defer taking the course several times and the opportunity was lost. Study for the Stipendiary Magistrates Course and qualifying in 1987, made it necessary to transfer to the Inactive Reserve until his retirement on age in 1989 after 30 years of service.
As President of the RACT RAASC RAE (TN) Association in 1993 he held that position for four years and remained an active member of the Highgate RSL Sub-Branch, The Naval, Military and Air Forces Club and the Western Australian Club.
He was appointed Colonel Commandant of RACT, Western Region in 1997 and served until 2001.
His civilian career continued as Stipendiary Magistrate of the Central Law Courts, Perth, where he travelled the State to fulfil his duties.
In July 2003, he was appointed Trustee of WA Branch of the Returned and Services League and a member of the National Tribunal in 2004.
Following his retirement from the judiciary in 2007, Magistrate Wayne Tarr was appointed as an acting magistrate for 12 months to address delays at courts throughout Western Australia. Mr Tarr helped reduce backlogs at Magistrate’s Courts in Bunbury, Rockingham, Armadale and the Goldfields region – in particular Esperance and Kalgoorlie. He spent one week per month at each of these courts, which resulted in his ARes career being placed on hold.
Wayne dedicated more than 20 years of service as a Trustee of the Board of Directors. Throughout his two decades as an RSL WA Trustee, he provided invaluable counsel, leadership and steadfast support to the Board.
We honour Wayne’s outstanding service and enduring commitment to the Western Australian community.
Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with his family.
Vale Wayne Tarr.
Bavarian Brats & Brews
When: Friday 31 July 2026
Time: 11:00 am to close
Where: Level 1, Anzac House, 28 St Georges Tce Perth
We’re bringing a taste of Germany to the Anzac Club Restaurant and Bar for a full day of beer, bratwurst and good times to celebrate International Beer Day! Enjoy a special lineup of German Weihenstephan beers* paired with hearty food specials** and a lively atmosphere. Gather your friends, book a long table and settle in for the day – why not make it a proper celebration! View the menu here: The ANZAC Club - Bavarian Brats & Brews
Call 9287 3777 to book your table today … and get ready to say Prost!
Walk-ins welcome***
*Our normal wines, coffee and soft drinks will be available. Beers will only be a selection of Weihenstephan products
**Our standard à la carte menu will not be available on this date.
*** Limited spots available
Expressions of Interest – RSL WA Committee positions
RSL WA has several Committee positions open. Please see below.
Applications require a CV and cover letter (400 words max) emailed to admin@rslwa.org.au.
Nominations Committee Terms of Reference
Finance Advisory Committee (FAC)
West Australian Veterans Advisory Committee (WAVAC)
RSL WA merchandise
The RSL WA merchandise store is stocked with shirts, jackets, activewear and winter favourites!
To purchase merchandise and help support RSL WA, visit RSLWA Online Store – RSL WA and place your order today.
Visitors to Anzac House will have noticed some of the staff, CEO included, wearing an RSL WA rugby jumper. This was trial and the jumpers will be coming soon to the RSL WA Online Store.
Our experience with the merchandise is that people will see the logo and ask a question or start a conversation.
Job Ready: Veterans' Employment Support
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Unlock new opportunities with Job Ready Support.
RSL WA and Working Spirit are committed to supporting veterans and their family members on their career journey. If you are looking to transition out of the ADF or are a veteran seeking assistance with your career journey, our employment consultants can support veterans with the following:
- Career advice and navigation
- Translating military experience
- Crafting effective CVs and cover letters
- Accessing training programs
There is no cost for ADF veterans and their families.
To access these services, please fill in the form on our website: rslwa.org.au/services/employment
Lost & Found
A number of lost items – including a belt buckle and medals – have been handed in to the concierge at Anzac House. If you think some of these items might be yours, please visit the Concierge Desk.
