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Download PDF version of the Sub-Branch Signal

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President’s Update

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Thank you to everyone who gave so much to ensure that Anzac Day across Western Australia was the success it was. This year built on amazing work in previous years. Engagement with this significant day in the calendar should give each and every one of us comfort that Anzac Day is not being lost in the noise of society, rather it is standing out as a day where Australia comes together.  

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However, we should never take for granted the incredible support and engagement we receive. As custodians of this most sacred day, RSL WA must continue to strive to improve, holding the sanctity of commemoration central to everything we do.  

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The team at Anzac House are now focussed on State Congress. State Congress in 2025 will see the first of the staggered elections. The State Vice President and three director roles will be declared vacant and re-elected by the members. It is pleasing to see a small, highly qualified group of volunteers seeking these important roles. If you have not had an opportunity to review the nominations, I encourage you to contact your Sub-Branch who will have the relevant information.  

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State Congress is the key forum for members through their Sub-Branches to raise issues of significance for the League. An example is strategy. The Board will soon be publishing our revised strategy and invite comment and observations. The more feedback received, the better the outcome! State Congress will also seek to make changes to our constitution. Some changes emanated from motions in 2024, others seek to strengthen governance of the League. I invite discussion on these prior when papers are released shortly.  

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The format for State Congress will build on the changes implemented in 2024. There will be the presentations on the Friday evening with the general meeting on Saturday. This is designed to maximise attendance and opportunity for delegates to engage with each other.  

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The Board is aware of significant challenges with memberships this year. I have explored this with the CEO who is undertaking a review to understand why the challenges have materialised this year in the way they have. The membership team, supported by RSL WA staff, have been working incredibly hard, yet problems persist. I ask for continued patience as we not only review this year but implement a new membership system. The implementation is progressing well, and we are all hopeful of news in the not-too-distant future.  

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As the Federal election draws to a close, the veteran community can be comfortable of the level of support and engagement. In summary, it continues to be very good. In both Western Australia and Federally, the RSL is seen as a trusted, independent voice that provides considered input. We should continue to build on this relationship as we collectively strive for better outcomes in our community.  

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Finally, planning is well advanced for the 80th Commemoration of Victory in the Pacific Day. Along with veterans, dignitaries and serving members, I hope to fully recognise the incredible service of arguably our greatest generation.  

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I look forward to continuing our great work together.

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All the best.  

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Duncan Anderson‍

State President, RSL WA

CEO’s Update

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With Anzac Day behind us, we now have two priorities: State Congress in June and operationalising the strategic guidance the Board has given us. We will have more to say about our operational plan over the coming months – but at the heart of our efforts will be ensuring we have an RSL ready to support veterans and their families, both today and tomorrow.

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Our mission is to ensure veterans and their families thrive in the community. Following Anzac Day, two welfare cases caused me to reflect on how there is further work required to ensure we have the mindset, structure and processes to deliver our mission.

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We had a request come through from Defence on how we could support a veteran and their family work through a particularly challenging period. Without going into details, the family was managing a situation that came from left field and could happen to any of us.  

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At the same time, we were approached by a member of the community concerned about their neighbour, who is a Vietnam veteran.  

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This veteran had been locked out of his bank account as he had forgotten his pin number. He did not know how to deal with the situation. So, he ran out of money, then he ran out of food.

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Finally, he put a sign in his window saying ‘Help’.  

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A neighbour came to his aid and organised some meals, then they came to us. By that time, he had lost 35 kilograms.  

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Since the first call, we have been providing intensive support to this veteran.  

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This is core business for us. This is the embodiment of our value of Care.

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Around the same time, while we were working through the support we would provide and how we would fund it, we were advised of the indicative legal costs of an issue raised by a Sub-Branch. Ultimately, it will probably be around ten times what we need to support that veteran and the Defence member and his family.

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The Sub-Branch elected to take a legal approach, so we simply had no alternative but to seek legal advice. The opportunity cost is clear.

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Long story short, we have delivered the support. But we don't always make it easy for ourselves.

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I'd like to close by thanking all our volunteers for their work on Anzac Day.  

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As a returned serviceman before I joined the League, I had only the vaguest of idea of who organised Anzac Day services. I just assumed that someone would make sure it happened, so someone like me, could go to a Dawn Service and then catch up with mates.  

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I don't think I was alone. There would be many veterans who assume there will always be volunteers out there to run these services. Our volunteers are the people that make it happen on behalf of their fellow ex-service personnel and the community.  

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I am mindful that we draw on a finite supply of volunteers, and we need to do more to tap into both the broader veteran community and our members. If we don't, in future years, in some places, Anzac Day Services won't go ahead.  

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Former State President, Graham Edwards recently reminded me that there was no Anzac Day service at the Scarborough War Memorial in Doubleview.  

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This is a shame.  

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And yet, according to the census from 2021, there were 313 former serving members of the ADF in Scarborough and 116 currently serving. In Doubleview and Innaloo, there were 286 former serving members and 73 current serving. Our challenge is clear.  

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Stephen Barton

CEO, RSL WA

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ANZAC Day 2025

Thank you to all who commemorated Anzac Day and the 110th Anniversary of the Gallipoli campaign in 1915. It was great to see more than 25,000 people gather as a community at the Dawn Service in Kings Park to commemorate.

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Anzac Day events also included the Gunfire Breakfast at Government House Gardens, a special Anzac commemorative service at the iconic St George’s Cathedral, and the March down St Georges Terrace, with over 20,000 people lining the streets to watch.  

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Over 75 RSL Sub-Branches held Anzac Day events, with many holding multiple events. Be sure to view our upcoming edition of The Listening Post for a special Anzac Day feature, including Sub-Branch events from around WA.  

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Thank you to our supporters Lotterywest, City of Perth, Roy Hill and Hancock Prospecting for making these important events possible.

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109th State Congress

State Congress and the Annual General Meeting will be held over two days again. On Friday 13 June 2025 we invite Sub-Branch Delegates to Anzac House to connect and recognise our community leaders at the Award Presentations. On Saturday 14 June RSL WA’s State Congress and Annual General Meeting will take place on Level 5 at Anzac House.  

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A reminder to Sub-Branch Committees: please send in your Delegate, Observer & Proxy nomination forms by the 30 May 2025 to admin@rslwa.org.au. You can access the form on the Sub-Branch Toolbox or via this link: https://mcusercontent.com/cee876f79a9c683af1d529b14/files/c1a86d0c-6b0a-605e-3f1e-2ccac3ef5670/DELEGA_1.pdf

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Sub-Branch Toolbox Update

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The Award documentation has been recently reviewed. While submissions on behalf of a Sub-Branch remain the responsibility of the Secretary, the forms and supporting documentation you require sit under ‘Certificates and Awards’ drop-down menu on the Sub-Branch Toolbox, should a member of your Committee Council require.

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Supporting Our Veterans: RSL WA Launches EOFY Appeal

RSL WA will launch its new End of Financial Year (EOFY) Appeal this week, focused on raising funds for our fee-free Veterans’ Claims Advocacy Service. This vital service helps our veterans navigate the complex compensation system and ensures they receive the entitlements they deserve – at no cost to them.

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The impact of military service can be long-lasting, and the claims process can feel overwhelming. RSL WA’s trained Claims Advocates are here to assist, standing beside veterans to guide them through each step and helping to secure vital supports for their health and wellbeing.

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The Advocacy Service is partly funded by donations, and this EOFY Appeal is a key part of ensuring we can continue providing this critical support to those who need it most.

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We encourage our members to help spread the word about the campaign. Talking to family, friends, and your local community about the work of our Claims Advocates can help raise awareness and support.

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If you would like to learn more about the appeal or how to get involved, please visit https://eofy.rslwa.org.au

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Arthur Leggett honoured with State Funeral

Arthur Leggett OAM, Western Australia's last prisoner of war from the Second World War, was honoured with a State Funeral on Saturday 10 May 2025.  

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The funeral, hosted by the WA Government, took place at St George's Cathedral in Perth. A Military led procession marched from West Perth, down St Georges Terrace and concluded at the cathedral.

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At the age of 22, Arthur was captured by German Forces following the Battle of Crete and he remained a prisoner of war in Europe for almost four years. A total of 8,591 Australians were captured as Prisoners of War during the Second World War. Arthur was one of 3,109 Australians taken prisoner after the Battle of Crete. 242 of these prisoners never made it home.  

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Lest we forget.  

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Vale Rabbi Coleman | 1918 – 2025

With deep reverence, RSL WA marks the passing of Emeritus Chief Rabbi Dr Shalom Coleman. Scholar, serviceman and beloved leader, Rabbi Coleman’s 106-year life touched many.

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During the Second World War, Rabbi Coleman served with the Royal Air Force as a wireless operator and air gunner on missions in Western Europe. In 1944 he became a recruiting officer in England for the Jewish Brigade Group.

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Rabbi Coleman served as a military chaplain in both South Africa and to the 5th Military District of the Australian Army.  

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In 1961, Rabbi Coleman and his family emigrated to Australia. He became Rabbi at the South Head and District Synagogue in Sydney. Four years later he became Chief Rabbi of the Perth Hebrew Congregation, a position he held for 20 years.

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He was also a respected member of the RSL.  

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Rabbi Coleman was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1980 and Member of the Order of Australia in 1990 for his service to the Jewish community.

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An influential and deeply respected Rabbi, he will be greatly missed.

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RSL WA By-Laws 4.5b Amended

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Please note the following change to RSL WA’s By-Law 4.5b

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Amended: 12 May 2025

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4.5 The eligible persons who may be admitted as an Affiliate Member are those who do not qualify for Service Membership, but comply with the following:

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a. be 18 years of age or older; and

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b. be a person who is a relative or a married or defacto partner of a League Service or Life Member or a person who is or was eligible to be a Service or Life Member whether that member is living or has since died;

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c. or a person who is, or has been a member for at least six (6) months, of one of the following:  

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(i) a State or Federal Police Force;

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(ii) an Ambulance Service or Brigade; (iii) a Fire Brigade or Fire Authority;

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(iv) a State Emergency Service;

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(v) a Prison Officer;

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(vi) Australian Border Force;

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(vii) Cadets (Adult); or

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(viii) the Medical Profession

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d. or a person who the State Board of Directors consider suitable; and e. has signed an Affiliate Member application form, as prescribed by the State Branch, which expressly required the Affiliate Member to agree to be bound by the National Constitution, Rules and By-Laws and any Rules and By-Laws of the State Branch.

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2026 Premier’s Anzac Student Tour

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Applications are open for the Premier’s Anzac Student Tour. Students will travel to Darwin and Singapore in April 2026.

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Accompanied by 3 teachers, the group of 10 students will depart for the 10-day tour in the April school holidays.

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The unique 2026 program gives students an opportunity to investigate the Anzac legacy and those who served in the armed forces in all wars. They will commemorate the 81st anniversary of the end of the Second World War, the 84th anniversary of the bombing of Darwin and the 84th anniversary of the fall of Singapore.

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This annual competition is open to all Western Australian students in Years 8 to 11. Students from public and non-government schools can submit their entries for the chance to be selected as ambassadors for the tour.

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Students are selected following a written submission and interviews, demonstrating their interest in Australian history and an understanding of the Anzac legacy.

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Since 2004, 266 students have been chosen for tours to Belgium, England, France, Greece, Malaysia, Singapore, Turkey, Vietnam, Japan and around Australia to commemorate the service and sacrifice of Anzac service men and women.

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Youth Memberships

Does your Sub-Branch have Youth Memberships?

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RSL WA are calling on Sub-Branches across the State to share information on their Youth Memberships and how your Sub-Branch is engaging the next generation.  

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Email admin@rslwa.org.au with the details of Youth Memberships at your Sub-Branch.  

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RSL Active

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Your gateway to connecting with fellow veteran families across Western Australia, offering an array of exciting events and activities tailored just for you. RSL WA is on a mission to simplify your journey back to civilian life by creating opportunities for you and your family to bond with like-minded people.

Strava Club

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Location: Strava Online

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Would you like to get active with other veterans from around the country? RSL Active Strava Club is a nationwide initiative with more than 200 members who run, walk and cycle their way to fitness with like-minded peers. Strava is a virtual platform for all our RSL community to join in and connect, no matter where you are located.

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If you enjoy getting out and getting active, sign up to an RSL Active Strava Club and enjoy the motivation and camaraderie of sharing your fitness journey.

Invisible Injuries

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Location: Online Yoga

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Veterans and immediate family can join a free six-week online beginner-friendly yoga program. Use a personal device to sign-in to classes from anywhere in WA.  

Online yoga classes provide a gentle and accessible introduction to the fundamental principles and postures of yoga. Participants can learn about the different styles of yoga, basic breathing techniques and key alignment principles which will set you up for a safe and rewarding practice.

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

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EVENTS

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Theatre 180

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21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner Brooke

‍REGIONAL TOUR

24 May: York Town Hall
31 May: Kalgoorlie Arts Centre
7 June: Bridgetown Town Hall
14 June: Beverley Town Hall
28 June: Albany
4 July: Queens Park Theatre Geraldton

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PERTH SEASON – COMO THEATRE, 16 PRESTON STREET

Thursday 19 June | 11:00 am & 7:00 pm
Friday 20 June | 11:00 am & 7:00 pm
Saturday 21 June | 2:00 pm & 7:00 pm
Sunday 22 June | 5:00 pm

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Military & Families and Emergency Services Career Summit

Date: Friday 6 June 2025

Time: 10:00 am to 2:00 pm

Location: 10 Light Horse Regiment, Irwin Barracks, Karrakatta

Note: A bus service will operate from the front gate. Physical photo ID is required for entry. If you have a Military ID, please use this as your physical ID.

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Join us for a day of networking, insightful sessions, and invaluable resources to help you excel in your career. This is your chance to connect with top employers, learn from expert speakers, and take the next step in your professional journey.

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Register now: workingspirit.org.au/event-details/military-families-and-emergency-services-career-summit  

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Exhibition: Remembering the Men of HMAS Perth

Date: now until 27 July 2025

Time: 9.30 am to 5:00 pm  

Location: WA Maritime Museum

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An exhibition remembering the men of HMAS Perth (I) is on display at the WA Maritime Museum, Fremantle. The exhibition unpacks some of the ways HMAS Perth (I) has been preserved over time, and how the vessel and its crew continue to have a presence in various aspects of WA life.  

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This community exhibition highlights key commemorations, including the HMAS Perth (I) Regatta, the annual remembrance ceremony at the Church of St. John the Evangelist, and now the HMAS Perth (I) Memorial in East Fremantle, which officially opened on 1 March 2025.

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Take in the details of historical banners and models. The beautiful banners on display highlight the journey of HMAS Perth (I), from its acceptance into the Royal Australian Navy in 1939 to the unauthorised partial salvage of the wreck in 2013. Complementing this visual history, Gerry Westenberg’s detailed models provide a technical perspective on HMAS Perth (I) and USS Houston, offering a deeper understanding of these historic warships.

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Remembering the Men of HMAS Perth is presented by the HMAS Perth (I) Memorial Foundation Inc. The exhibition is open until 27 July 2025.

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Better Together Ball 2025

Date: Saturday 2 August 2025  

Time: 6:00 pm to 11:30 pm

Location: Pan Pacific Perth

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The Better Together Ball returns this August to raise much needed funds to support WA veterans and their families.  

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Join us for an unforgettable night featuring live entertainment, a gourmet three-course dinner, and premium drinks.  

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Now in its fourth year, the Better Together Ball brings together RSL WA and Legacy WA – two of Western Australia’s most respected ex-service organisations – in a shared mission to raise critical funds for our veteran community.

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Early bird tickets are now on sale for a limited time only. Don’t miss your chance to be part of a night that honours service and strengthens support.  

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Tickets can be booked via bettertogetherball.org.au  

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Victory in the Pacific Service – Save the date!

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Victory in the Pacific Day commemorates the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War.  

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RSL WA will be holding a commemorative service at the State War Memorial on Friday 15 August 2025. Further details to be announced in the coming months.

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