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Download PDF version of the Sub-Branch Signal

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President’s Update

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Colleagues,

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National

On 16 October 2025, MAJ GEN Greg Melick (rtd) 6 ½ year term as National President will come to an end, with a new National President to be elected. Greg took over at a point in time that saw great uncertainty for the League at the national level. During his tenure, RSL Australia has reformed its governance and overseen a net growth in membership across Australia. Critically, RSL Australia has regained its place as a trusted advisor on all matters relating to veterans and their families. It is a great privilege to have worked alongside Greg, and on behalf of all members in Western Australia I will ensure our best wishes and gratitude are conveyed.  

The National AGM is on 16 Oct 25. I will convey the outcome of the election as soon as practical.  

On 9 October 2025 several resignations were announced by directors of RSL NSW. I am hopeful that this brings this chapter to a close.

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State

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Board meeting 3 October 25. The Board welcomed the State President and CEO of RSL Victoria as observers to the most recent meeting. This meeting was highlighted by several decisions and recommendations relating to succession planning within RSL WA. I am looking forward to announcing new appointments in the coming months. Also, the Board discussed in detail a new Sub-Branch offering. This has been referred to in the past as a ‘virtual’ Sub-Branch. More information will be presented shortly. However, I wish to stress that this is not designed to take away from existing Sub-Branches; rather, it provides a new option to engage veterans in Western Australia.  

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Membership. Thank you for those Sub-Branches that have responded to their patrons with information about the membership system. This support assists the operational team in moving through the work that needs to be done in a way that better supports members and Sub-Branches.  

For those that have not provided a response, I encourage you to engage with your Board Patron. We cannot address issues if we do not know about them, and your support is greatly appreciated.  

Presidents Forums. A reminder the next Presidents forum is on 20 October 2025. Please encourage your president to engage as this is an excellent opportunity for information transfer and for Sub-Branches to let me know directly what is impacting them.  

The dates of the Presidents forums for the rest of the year are:

• 20 October, 1700h Anzac House and virtual.  

• 17 November, 1700h Anzac House and virtual.  

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Sub-Branch Health Check. Traditionally some Sub-Branches have provided their end of year accounts and minutes of their AGM to RSL WA. This is now more formal, and Sub-Branches are required to provide this information. The purpose of this is to  

1. Provide an independent check of finances to ensure compliance.

2. Confirm the make-up of Sub-Branch committees and status of Sub-Branch i.e. is the Sub-Branch an affiliate Sub-Branch.  

I request that Sub-Branches turn their attention to this and provide these documents to admin@rslwa.org.au as soon as possible.  

Conclusion.

As we collectively hurtle towards the end of the year, I ask that we all keep an eye out for our mates. It is all too easy to become inwards focussed as we all strive to do our best; I contend we are at our best when we look after each other.

All the best.

Duncan

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‍Duncan Anderson‍

State President, RSL WA

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CEO’s Update

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I’d like to start by congratulating the team at Karridale-Augusta for signing up a new member – Mr Henry George Hooks.

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Mr Hooks joined the RAAF on 11 September 1941, 84 years ago. He’d never joined the RSL before, so I can only assume that the Secretary, Mr Greg ‘Bloggs’ Burrow, put a convincing case to Mr Hooks that maybe it was time to give it a go.

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Welcome Mr Hooks!

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Thank you to all those who have submitted art, photos or items for our project to refresh the artwork at the Anzac Club and capture a more contemporary veteran experience. We have a really good selection to choose from.

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At a time when we can take high quality photographs with our mobile phones, I was reminded that there were no iPhones on deployment back in the day. People had digital cameras, but opportunities to use them were often limited: many worked in spaces and places where you weren’t supposed to take photos.

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A few people have lamented that they didn’t take enough photos to capture their experiences. This probably reinforces the need for our collection to reflect that general experience.

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We are preparing for three significant events in November. Firstly, the Committee Conference on 1 November.

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We have deliberately chosen a Saturday to ensure that those Sub-Branch Committee members who work during the week will be able to attend. It is a statement and recognition from RSL WA that we need to do more to accommodate those volunteers who work for a living as well. We held our first Committee Conference last year and the feedback was very positive. Outside State Congress, it is very hard to get all the Sub-Branch Committees in the one location and in a less formal environment.

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I’ll provide an update on where we are with our Strategy, an overview of operations and our financial performance to date. There will be dedicated sessions for membership, welfare, finance, and commemoration, to name but a few. This is a great opportunity to share information across the League.  We’ll also open the bar for some refreshments at the end of the day.

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On the Friday night before the Committee conference there will be the normal end of month Sundowner at Anzac House, but also something rather special. The Anzac Club will also be hosting RSL WA’s and the Resilience Shield’s comedy night – ‘Laughter on the Frontlines’.  

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Laughter on the Frontline, a partnership with RSL Active, is a one-of-a-kind experience led by two professional comedians, facilitated by RSL WA Board Member, ex SAS officer and author Tim Curtis, and grounded in the Resilience Shield methodology.

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The goal isn’t to be funny, but it’s about developing the mindset and courage to have a go. Every participant will be coached, and every participant will step onto stage – hopefully in front of a friendly supportive audience of serving, ex-serving members and friends.

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We welcome anyone who wants to come by to drop in to Anzac House.

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Next month, on 7 November, we will be holding our annual Poppy Appeal in the CBD. We’re very grateful for those people who have volunteered. If you’d like to assist, please let us know. The more volunteers, the more we collect.

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Finally, on 11 November we will be conducting our Remembrance services across the State. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the conduct of the service in your area, please do not hesitate to contact RSL WA.

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Stephen Barton

CEO, RSL WA

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Veteran Services Monthly Update

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Advocacy Update: Sophia Louison, Compensation Advocate

Earlier this year, we were first contacted by a 38-year-old veteran who had already submitted several claims on his own. Unfortunately, some of his conditions were set to be rejected by DVA because they were not properly linked to his service, as he was unaware of the specific criteria that needed to be met.  

At his initial appointment, and with guidance from both our team and the DVA CLA program, he chose to withdraw the original mental health claims so they could be resubmitted with accurate dates and clear links to his service. We also supported him in lodging additional claims for hearing loss and recurrent tension-type headaches, which he attributed to a service-related incident.

Instead of nominating specific mental health diagnoses at this stage, we recommend claiming more broadly for “mental health conditions – which are to be confirmed by a psychiatrist". This approach allowed all potential conditions to be considered during assessment, without prematurely limiting the scope of the claim.  

The veteran was prompt in booking appointments with the required providers to have the DVA-requested paperwork completed, which greatly assisted with the progression of his claim. Four months later, DVA accepted liability for 8 of the conditions. This meant that instead of facing rejection and a long appeals process, his conditions were recognised and his claim moved quickly to Permanent Impairment assessment. A few weeks later he was awarded maximum lump sum compensation under MRCA, a Gold Card and has applied for Young Person’s Payment for his children.

RSL WA advocacy turned months of stress into a swift, positive outcome – delivering financial security, full medical care, and support for his family. With RSL WA, you don’t face the system alone. If you would like Advocacy assistance, please complete the online request and one of the team will get in touch.  

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Welfare Support Update: Damien Roper, Veteran Services Manager

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During September, we have had over 43 separate requests for support. These have been mostly in the areas of food security, housing, car repairs and funeral support.

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We have started diverting some of those requests back to Sub-Branches for a couple of reasons.

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One of those is the feedback that at times Sub-Branches have a healthy welfare/wellbeing funds account that sometimes doesn’t get spent. The other is about linking local veterans in with local Sub-Branches with the hope the support and camaraderie they feel in that contact will encourage veterans to get more involved with their community both in terms of how they can be supported, but also what they can contribute. And now is an opportunity to remind all that a veteran does not need to be a RSL member to be supported, however if their experience is positive, they might be encouraged to do so. Wellbeing increases when people are engaged in community and welfare needs are reduced when wellbeing is increased. And that’s a cornerstone of what RSL is about.

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Is your Sub-Branch doing something amazing in the welfare/wellbeing space? We would love to hear about it so we can include it in the next Sub-Branch Signal.    

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We have also been actively recruiting for a welfare/wellbeing lead, which we hope to have someone in place in the near future as currently one person is covering two positions. Hopefully this will mean we can clear requests where there simply haven’t been enough hours in the day to attend to.

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Finally, during visits to Sub-Branches a consistent theme in the feedback is that at times Sub-Branches have items or resources they are unsure what to do with. Sometimes those resources are veterans who are keen to help other veterans out via their skill set or interest. The issue being no central point to put this information out to other Sub-Branches. We invite Sub-Branches to contact the us with these items or resources, and we will include them in the Sub-Branch Signal.

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If you’re keen to contribute to any of the above or if you just have something to say you can contact the Veteran Services Manager via email at vsm@rslwa.org.au.      

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Steadying the ship. RSL Acknowledges Greg Melick’s Leadership

Six-and-a-half-year Presidency marked by restored trust, modernised advocacy and strengthened veteran services.

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The Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL) acknowledges the exceptional tenure of National President Greg Melick, whose six-and-a-half-year presidency concludes on October 16, 2025.  

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Known for his steadfast leadership, Greg Melick, with a dedicated National Board and management team, successfully ‘steadied the ship’ during a critical time for the organisation, restoring trust and modernising its approach to veteran advocacy.

Greg Melick assumed the RSL presidency in May 2019 during a period of significant organisational challenge, inheriting governance issues that had severely impacted public trust in Australia's largest ex-service organisation. His leadership has been instrumental in not only restoring the RSL's credibility but fundamentally transforming it into a modern, influential voice for the nation's veteran community.

Under Greg Melick's stewardship, with Board support, the RSL underwent comprehensive governance reform, rebuilding public confidence and establishing the moral authority necessary for effective veteran advocacy. His re-election for a second term in October 2022 confirmed a clear mandate from RSL State Branches to continue his reformist agenda.

The restructure of the National Office and the appointment of an experienced Chief Executive Officer in January 2021 further strengthened the organisation's professional foundation, creating a leadership team that combined extensive military and civilian expertise.

Greg Melick's presidency was defined by the RSL's proactive engagement with the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, transforming the organisation from a traditional commemorative body into a sophisticated policy advocate.  

Despite initial concerns that a long enquiry would unnecessarily delay much needed reforms to assist veterans, the RSL acted, assisting in the development of the Royal Commission's Terms of Reference, lodged detailed submissions, and is now engaging with the Government to see through the implementation of the recommendations.

Among many advances, the RSL successfully advocated for Australian Defence Force Service inclusion in the National Census, appointment of a National Commissioner for Defence and Veteran Suicide Prevention, and the harmonisation of funeral benefits for veterans.

Recognising the need to serve a new generation of veterans, Greg Melick and the Board spearheaded a comprehensive modernisation effort as well as enhancing relationships with the State Branches and key stakeholders.  

The RSL’s own research initiatives, including the major Middle East Area of Operations Scoping Study, demonstrated a commitment to evidence-based advocacy that strengthened the organisation's credibility with government and stakeholders.

Under Greg Melick's leadership, the RSL significantly expanded its role in national defence discussions through its Defence and National Security Committee. The organisation became a key voice on Australia's defence preparedness, funding requirements, capability development, ADF recruitment and retention, and sovereign defence industrial capacity.

The RSL's international profile was elevated through Greg Melick’s attendance at Queen Elizabeth II's funeral, diplomatic engagement in Timor-Leste, and participation in the Seoul International Veterans Forum. His international work culminated in recognition as an Officer of France's Ordre national du Mérite on Anzac Day 2025 for his leadership in Anzac Centenary commemorations.

The broad advocacy achievements over the past six and a half years included the establishment of five key RSL priorities for the 2025 Federal election focusing on the full implementation of the recommendations of the Royal Commission implementation, greater access to fee-free advocacy for veterans, improved access to healthcare for veterans and their families, sustained investment in the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, and boosting Australia’s Defence capability.

Greg Melick’s tenure represents the fifth-longest presidential term since the RSL's establishment in 1916, marked by restored organisational stability, enhanced government relationships, modernised service delivery, and clear strategic vision for the future.

• RSL membership has increased steadily over the past four years, now totalling more than 153,000

• The organisation achieved record levels of policy advocacy output

• Cross-state cooperation and resource sharing improved significantly

• Partnerships with international organisations strengthened

Greg Melick said it had been a great honour to serve as National President of the RSL for the past six and a half years.

“Throughout my tenure, I have endeavoured to promote the interests of veterans and their families while ensuring their welfare and Australia’s defence and national security remained uppermost in our advocacy priorities,” Greg Melick said.

"When I assumed this role in 2019, the RSL faced significant challenges that required immediate attention and long-term strategic thinking. My approach was very much ‘to steady the ship’.

“I am proud that together with our National Board, dedicated management team, State Branches, and committed members, we have rebuilt trust, modernised our operations, and strengthened our voice as advocates for those who have served our nation.

"The work we accomplished in response to the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide represents some of our most important advocacy, ensuring that the sacrifices and struggles of our veterans drives meaningful policy change at the highest levels of government.

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"As I conclude my presidency, I am confident that the RSL is well-positioned to continue its vital mission of supporting veterans and their families while contributing to Australia's national security discussions. The organisation's future is bright, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have played a part in this transformative chapter of the RSL's proud history."

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Final call: submit your artwork for display at Anzac House

Submissions close Monday 20 October – don't miss out!

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This is your final opportunity to have your art, photographs or commemorative items displayed at Anzac House for Remembrance Day. RSL WA is seeking contributions from the ‘Fourth Wave’ of Australian service or ex-service personnel, those who served between 1999 and 2015, whether overseas or at home.

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The Fourth Wave cohort, as defined by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, is now Australia's single largest group of veterans, comprising those who served in:

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• East Timor

• Iraq

• Afghanistan

• Other service, including, but not limited to peacekeeping or service in Australia

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Your story matters. By sharing your experiences through a photograph, a painting, or a personal object, you help deepen public understanding of modern service and honour the legacy of those who served alongside you.

The existing items on display in ANZAC Club will remain valued and preserved, we are simply adding new perspectives to better reflect the breadth of modern service.

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How to submit

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We invite members and the broader veteran community to submit entries for consideration by our commemorations committee.

Simply click on the link here, enter your details and click submit.  

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Submissions close Monday 20 October.

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Support the Perth Poppy Appeal 2025    

Perth CBD Appeal – Poppy Appeal 2025

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RSL WA’s amazing volunteers – including current serving and ex-serving veterans, along with a cohort of passionate civilian supporters – will be out in full force across the Perth CBD for this year’s Poppy Appeal, collecting donations and sharing poppies and poppy themed merchandise with the public.  

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Expect a vibrant scene, with military vehicles both vintage and modern on display throughout Hay St and Murray St Malls; plus, RSL WA marquees staffed by our team, ready to welcome and engage with the community.

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Event: Poppy Appeal 2025
Location: Perth CBD
Date: Friday 7 November 2025
Time: 7:00am – 2:00pm
Hosted by: RSL WA

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We’d like to extend thanks to the generous CBD properties supporting this year’s appeal: Central Park, QV1, Dexus Alluvion, 240 St Georges Terrace, Raine Square, Allendale Square and Chevron.

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Stay updated and show your support by following the official Poppy Appeal 2025 page on Facebook.

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Poppy Appeal Merchandise: If your Sub-Branch hasn’t received our email communications about how to order your Poppy Appeal supplies and merchandise, please contact us at appeals@rslwa.org.au and we will be touch.

Share Your Impact: We love to see photos, videos and impact stories from RSL Sub-Branches in WA. Tag us in any of your social media posts or share some stories on how you have used Welfare funds raised in the Poppy Appeal to support veterans and their families at your Sub-Branch. Content can be sent to listening.post@rslwa.org.au

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Say Hi to the Poppy Ladies: Our beloved Poppy Ladies are blooming across the city and beyond, bringing colour and meaning to this year's appeal:

• 🌺An interactive pop-up at Raine Square: 1–13 November

• 🌺 A must-see display at Kings Park: 7–14 November

• 🌺 A honourable installation in Karratha, presented in partnership with Rio Tinto

Sub-Branch Involvement – Train Station Collections

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Our RSL WA Sub-Branches will also be out collecting donations at Perth train stations on Friday 7 November, from 7:00am to 10:00am. Keep an eye out and show your support at:

• Perth Station

• Perth Underground

• Fremantle

• Claremont

• Subiaco

• Cockburn Central

• Rockingham

• Elizabeth Quay

• Wellard

• Kwinana

• Bassendean

• Bayswater

• Currambine

• Joondalup

• Leederville

• Warwick

• Butler

• Byford

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Royal Commonwealth Ex-Services League Conference 2025

The Royal Commonwealth Ex-Services League (RCEL) Conference 2025 (28 June - 3 July 2025), hosted by the Royal Canadian Legion in Ottawa, was a pivotal gathering for delegates from over 30 countries. As a long-standing member organisation, the Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL Australia) was actively involved, with RSL National President Greg Melick AO RFD FANZCN KC attending as a delegate to represent the RSL's interests.

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Founded in 1921, RCEL has a long and proud history of supporting Commonwealth veterans, and this conference was particularly crucial as it addressed the future of the organisation as an independent charity beyond 2027. Resolutions concerning the future of the League were discussed and voted on, with open discussions held about the future structure of the organisation. Member organisations offered helpful input, contributing to the development of options for supporting beneficiaries beyond 2027.

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The conference provided a vital opportunity for the RSL National President to discuss veteran matters with our Commonwealth counterparts, including providing updates on the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide and the RSL-led Middle East Area of Operations Scoping Study. This RSL is committed to supporting and working with RCEL to ensure no Commonwealth veteran is left without support and ensure Australia continues to contribute to the international veteran network.

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Japan-Australia Grassroots program 2026 participant selected

RSL WA congratulates Mr Colin Montefiore on being selected for the 2026 Japan-Australia Grassroots Exchange Program.

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This unique initiative supports post-war reconciliation and healing for descendants of Australian Prisoners of War, fostering deeper understanding and goodwill between Australia and Japan.  

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Well done Colin on representing WA and contributing to this important journey of remembrance and connection.

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Learn more: Japan-Australia Grassroots Exchange Program — RSL Australia

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RSL and Legacy Australia partner to support veteran community

Two of Australia’s largest and longest established veteran organisations have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to work more closely together to benefit veterans and their families.

The Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL) and Legacy Australia formed a strategic partnership on 22 September 2025 to develop and foster close collaboration nationally in advocacy in support of veterans and their families.

RSL National President Greg Melick and Legacy Australia Chairman Wayne McNee said the alliance had been formed at this time particularly to support the implementations of the recommendations flowing from the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide.

Both the RSL and Legacy will seek a leadership role and support each other’s endeavours on the standing committee established to advance the implementation process.

Greg Melick and Wayne McNee said the two nationally recognised, member-based service organisations, acknowledged the historical and profound role that each has in caring for veterans and their families.  

Greg Melick said: “RSL Australia is committed to the welfare of Australian Defence Force (ADF) members both serving and veterans discharged into the community.  RSL Australia has a recognised concern for the wellbeing of the families of these service personnel and from time to time, may seek the support of Legacy Australia.”

Wayne McNee said: “Legacy Australia is committed to the care of the families of veterans who have given their lives or their health in service to their country. In situations where the veteran may still be present but is not able to support their family, Legacy Australia may seek the support of RSL Australia.”

“While recognising the different positioning of each party in the veterans’ community, both are committed to a relationship based upon common goals and the sharing of resources and information,” they said.

Under the MOU, RSL Australia and Legacy Australia will work collaboratively to ensure the best possible outcomes for veterans and their families. The MOU identifies areas of coordination to ensure the services provided by each are understood and collaborative, and points to opportunities for maximising the expertise and resources available to each organisation at state and regional levels.

In fundraising, RSL Australia and Legacy Australia will collaborate for mutual benefit acknowledging that RSL Australia has prime fundraising access to its Anzac Day Appeal and its Remembrance Day Poppy Appeal, and the RSL Australia will actively support the Legacy Week fundraising activities.

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North Beach travels “overseas”

Words by Brian Jennings

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North Beach RSL Sub-Branch has in recent months experienced day trips to the Maritime Museum and the Army Museum in Fremantle. These were both full day tours, leaving Hillarys Marina by bus, touring the exhibitions, enjoying a meal in a local establishment and being delivered back to the starting point at the end of the day.

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For something different, a full complement decided to travel overseas. Overseas might be a stretch of the imagination, but it was a journey from Hillarys Marina to Wadjemup/Rottnest Island. Because of the weather, the trip over proved to be interesting, with some members unable to find their sea legs, but all made it over safely. The purpose was to explore and experience the military history of the island. Drury Heath, a member of North Beach and a volunteer Rottnest Guide, provided the expertise and an in-depth knowledge of the Island’s history. Drury contributed to making the day a living experience.  

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The focus of the tour was the Island’s military history and what our participants learnt was:

• It was an internment camp from 1914 to the end of 1915. Most of the 989 people interred were of German and Austrian heritage living in WA when the war broke out, however there were some legitimate prisoners of war. From December 1915 the internment camp was abolished, and recreation and holiday pursuits returned to Wadjemup.  

• In 1933, the Island was identified as a critical point in Western Australia’s coastal defence. It was agreed that the installation of a system of guns on the island could provide vital defence of Fremantle Port against any hostile ships.

• Two-gun batteries were constructed on the island: with Bickley Battery featuring one set of two 6-inch guns, and Oliver Hill with two 9.2-inch guns. The military also constructed six searchlight emplacements, magazine shell stores, a powerhouse, plotting rooms, and a railway system to support the construction work and then link the Army Jetty to the batteries and Kingstown. This was the forward defence for Fortress Fremantle working in with the extensive defences along the coast from City Beach down past Garden Island.

• From September 1937 the Island was declared a permanent station for Australian troops, with personnel from the Army, Navy, Airforce, well supported by the Australian Women’s Army Service (AWAS) and Women’s Royal Australian Navy Service (WRANS).  

• The WRAN signallers operated the Signal Station and rotated duties between Rottnest Island and Fremantle. The first signallers arrived on the island in 1943 and stayed until the Signal Station closed in 1945.

• The AWAS operated the plotting rooms and drove the vehicles, the blokes could do nothing until the women told them what to do.

• The Island was declared a prohibited area in June 1940, and all recreational activity ended. This continued for a further five years until June 1945. The two-gun batteries were manned 24 hours a day.

• Despite the impending threat to Western Australia’s shores, particularly after the fall of Singapore and the Philippines, and that Fremantle was the largest submarine base in the southern hemisphere for the British, US & Dutch Navies, the guns were never fired in anger.

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All of our members came away from the tour with a greater appreciation of the Island’s military role, thanks to Drury’s knowledge.  Even those who could not find their sea legs on the way over were very impressed.

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The North Beach RSL Sub-Branch highly recommends this Tour to other Sub-Branches should they have the opportunity.

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Remembrance Day Commemorative Service 2025

Join us on Tuesday 11 November 2025 from 10:30 am to 11:30 am at the Flame of Remembrance, Kings Park and Botanic Garden for a special service to mark Remembrance Day.

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Each year, at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, we join people around the world and pause for a minute’s silence to honour and remember those who have died in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.

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Planning your own Remembrance Day service? Visit the DVA Anzac Portal for helpful resources, including the Remembrance Day Kitbag to support your commemorative event: Remembrance Day Kitbag for hosting an event - Anzac Portal

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Stay updated by following the official Remembrance Day 2025 page on Facebook.

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Job Ready: Veterans' Employment Support

Unlock new opportunities with Job Ready Support.  

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RSL WA and Working Spirit are committed to supporting veterans and their family members on their career journey. If you are looking at transitioning 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.  

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To access these services, please fill in the form on our website: rslwa.org.au/services/employment

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UPCOMING EVENTS

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Australia Kookaburra Kids: Free Activity Day

Date: 18 October 2025  

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Location: Perth Mini Golf, Burswood Park

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Australian Kookaburra presents a free activity day for Defence Kids. Support the unique needs of young people 8-18 from serving and ex-serving ADF families. For more information about upcoming events visit kookaburrakids.org.au

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Veteran Sundowner Series

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Date: Friday 31 October  

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Time: 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm

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Location: Anzac Club, 28 St Georges Tce Perth

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The Veteran Sundowner event series is hosted on the last Friday of every month, providing WA veterans and their families with an opportunity to connect socially. These events are hosted at the Anzac Club Bar & Restaurant with a cash bar and snack menu available until 7:00 pm. Bring your mates and colleagues to catch-up and reconnect.⁣

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Back to the Bush, Veterans Reunion

Date: Wednesday 29 October – Wednesday 5 November

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Location: Bruce Rock, WA

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The Shire of Bruce Rock invites veterans to the annual Back to the Bush Veterans Reunion – a week-long celebration honouring Australian veterans and service personnel through parades, community events and rural hospitality. Highlights include the Veterans Parade on 1 November, live entertainment and commemorative activities. All veterans and their families are warmly welcome.

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‍Melbourne Cup Luncheon

Date: Tuesday 4 November 2025

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Time: 10:30 am – 2:30 pm

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Location: Anzac Club, 28 St Georges Terrace Perth

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About: Join us for a memorable Melbourne Cup Luncheon at the Anzac Club. Enjoy a delicious three-course meal and 3-hour beverage package. Plus, there will be sweeps, a raffle, live entertainment and prizes for the best dressed!

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Register: To book your spot, contact 9287 3700 or visit anzacclub.org.au/event-6108286

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Poppy Appeal

‍Date: Friday 7 November 2025  

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Time: 7:00 am – 2:00 pm  

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Location: Perth CBD

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On Friday 7 November, keep an eye out for our Poppy-themed stalls and our volunteer street collectors in the Perth CBD, across Perth and its train network and throughout Western Australia. Stop by to make a donation and pick up your 2025 Poppy merchandise.

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Remembrance Day 2025 – WA Commemorative Service

‍Date: Tuesday 11 November 2025  

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Time: 10:30 am – 11:15 am  

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Location: State War Memorial, Kings Park  

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Every year, at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, Australians join people around the world in a minute’s silence to honour the service personnel who have lost their lives while serving in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.

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35th Anniversary of the end of the Gulf War

Date: Saturday 21 February 2026

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Time: 9:00 am – 9:40 am

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Location: State War Memorial, Kings Park and Botanic Gardens

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Please save the date for this special commemorative service honouring the 35th anniversary of the end of the Gulf War.

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RSL Active Wellbeing Classes

For WA veterans and their families

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Spring is in the air and the energy across our RSL Active community is stronger than ever!

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We have a great line-up of events, programs and opportunities to connect. With something for everyone, wherever you’re at on your wellbeing journey.

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Some of our current activities include the following:  

• NRL State of Mind Workshop

• NRL Harmony Cup

• The Resilience Shield: Comedy Workshop

• Unearthing the Past

• RSL Activations #2

• Strava: Run, Walk, Cycle, Swim

• Veteran Yoga

• Veteran Gaming Australia

• Sailing On

• WA Defence Family Day

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For more information about RSL Active, please visit our website or email active@rslwa.org.au. Tell us about an activity you would like to try at your Sub-Branch or local area.  

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View Activities in the Members Portal: RSL WA members can see current activities by logging into the Member Portal and navigating to the Events tab.  

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Join the Mailing List: Interested in hearing more? Join the RSL Active community to stay up to date with upcoming activities, events and opportunities to get involved: RSL Active

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Lost & Found

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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.

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