RSL Victoria Community Benefits Report 2016 Contents Commemoration 4 Veteran Support 6 Community Support 8 More for Members 10 Our Volunteers 12 Employer of Choice 14 RSL Centenary 15

RSL Sub-Branches 16 Anzac Day March 2016

2. Community Benefits Report 2016 Introduction

The RSL was established in 1916, here in Victoria, primarily to provide welfare and supporting services to all those who served the nation in war and their families and dependents. Over the last hundred years the RSL has played a key role in our local communities, and we look forward to continuing to uphold the long standing tradition of hospitality and mateship.

We have over 280 RSL Sub-Branches and close to 180,000 members across the state, dedicated to upholding the values of the organisation, through which we have raised over $6.7 million dollars, through the ANZAC and Poppy Appeals. The money raised provides the RSL with the funding to drive our welfare efforts for the men and women who have served in the Australian Defence Force.

2016 has been a year of substantial growth, innovation and outstanding volunteer contribution. With over 2,000 employees across Victoria, and over 12,000 volunteers, it is no wonder that we are achieving incredible results for our local communities.

This Community Benefits Report is a comprehensive overview of both State Branch and Sub-Branch achievements throughout Victoria. We are all proud of what has been achieved in 2016 and we appreciate the dedication of our tireless volunteers in achieving these outcomes.

Dr Robert Webster OAM State President, RSL Victoria

Community Benefits Report 2016 3. Commemoration

“The nation is united in its respect for you and your century of service to Veterans and their families. The Returned & Services League too has always sought to unite Australians and their leaders in respecting and supporting our Veterans. You remind us that our freedoms have been bought at a great price, 650,000+ estimated attendance at that our national interests must be effectively guarded and that in the words Commemorative Services of your wise motto, The Price of Liberty is Eternal Vigilance. And we honour State wide your service by caring for the wounded, honouring the fallen and caring for their families and never forgetting that the best way to honour the heroes of World War One in this centenary is to support and care for the heroes and Veterans of today, you and your members and your families. It is fitting that we commemorate Australia’s involvement in the First World War at the same 40,000 at Shrine of Remembrance time as we celebrate 100 years of the RSL.” Dawn Service The Hon Malcolm Turnbull MP, Prime Minister of Australia. Source: Prime Minister’s speech to the RSL National Congress 2016.

All across Victoria in 2016 RSL Sub-Branches delivered important commemorative events on behalf of Veterans to the Victorian community. Numbers attending ANZAC Day The RSL Centenary services around Victoria were again very strong in 2016 with Remembrance Day Services Dinner was a also well attended. In 2016, 50 years after the Battle of Long Tan, the State Branch and wonderful occasion, many Sub-Branches also supported our Vietnam Veteran community in appropriately acknowledging their service and sacrifice. celebrating the In many parts of the state, in the wake of the upsurge of veteran awareness generated ongoing role the RSL by the ANZAC Centenary, many communities have initiated new or updated memorial plays in communities projects to remember the 1914-18 generation. In nearly all of their projects, the local RSL or the support of RSL Victoria has facilitated, guided or supported these outcomes. right across Victoria The RSL was established by Returning Soldiers from the First World War who wanted to The Hon Daniel Andrews look after each other and the families of the fallen and the RSL marked its own Centenary MP, Premier. of Service in 2016. Sub-Branches large and small took part in the significant gathering in Melbourne that marked this milestone with the Governor General attending as the Principal Guest. Brigadier Michael Annett CSC State Secretary, RSL Victoria

Shrine of Remembrance, Melbourne ANZAC Day March 2016 ANZAC Day Dawn Service 2016

4. Community Benefits Report 2016 Through the efforts of the Mildura RSL and the various RSL Victoria is proud of the unique Honour Roll Steering Committees, over 4,000 local men and women who enlisted for Service from 1899 to 2013 are now approach that our Sub-Branch honoured by name. network takes each and every ANZAC and Remembrance Day making them memorable commemorative events.

Our Annual Appeals are critical in our ability to provide ongoing Veteran support and draw public attention to these significant commemorative activities. In 2016 Keilor East RSL raised $122,910 for the ANZAC Appeal. Their efforts were closely followed by Waverley RSL and Greensborough RSL who respectively raised $94, 368 and $93, 965 in total. Robert Burnie, who served in East Timor and Iraq, confirms his name on the new Honour Roll at Mildura The 2016 Poppy Appeal saw close to $60,000 being raised at Waverley RSL, Box Hill RSL, Cheltenham-Moorabbin RSL and East Malvern RSL, followed closely by Dandenong- Cranbourne RSL and Frankston RSL. Attendance at the 2016 ANZAC Day Dawn Services was again high as Veterans, their families and the general public commemorated ANZAC Day 2016. The Epping RSL had approximately 4,500 people attend the ANZAC Day Dawn Service, ranging from the very old to the very young. The Last Post echoed around the grounds and it was a very moving experience for all who attended. In 2016, Seaford RSL’s Dawn Service and March was attended by over 2,000 people. Seaford RSL also held an annual schools ANZAC service, which was attended by 21 schools and over 200 students. Fundraising for ANZAC Appeals has increased Geelong RSL’s total fundraising income by more than 116% in the last eight years. These funds are strictly for the welfare and Melton RSL Dawn Service 2016 well-being of any member of the Australian Defence Force. In December 2016 the Committee of the Mildura RSL and the Aboriginal Action Committee unveiled the Mildura Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Memorial. The two organisations worked closely together to ensure the memorial conveyed a dignified tribute whilst acknowledging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural heritage. A new Honour Roll was officially dedicated by theMildura RSL on ANZAC Day 2016. The Honour Roll located in Henderson Park recognises the service of 137 local men and women who enlisted and served their country between 1976 and 2013, it also acknowledges the 16 local men who served in the Boer War between 1899 and 1902. Richmond RSL Dawn Service 2016

Community Benefits Report 2016 5.

Veteran health and well-being is at the forefront of RSL Victoria as an organisation. State Branch provides support to RSL Sub- Branches across the State, who assist their local community in a number of different ways, including providing financial support, opportunities for social inclusion and the representation of Veteran entitlements.

ANZAC House, home of the RSL Victoria State Branch.

6. Community Benefits Report 2016 Veteran Support

On the first and third Friday of each monthKeilor East RSL Veteran Support has a Veteran’s lunch which is a free two course senior’s Veterans throughout Victoria can always approach any RSL meal for the Veteran, their dependent (wife/husband) and Sub-Branch for assistance, this is our core purpose. RSL war widows which is well attended by approximately 70 - Victoria can also provide a direct service provision from 80 each time. ANZAC House in Melbourne and throughout the State The RSL Connect Program is just one initiative of the through our paid network of Advocates. Welfare profile at theGeelong RSL. The program will The Victorian Branch Advocates and Pension Officers operate for four years and is open to crisis responders continue to play a vital role in the support of Veterans including Police, Fire Officers and State Emergency throughout Victoria. The assistance provided by the Service volunteers. The establishment of the RSL Connect Advocates and Pension Officers is free of charge to all dimension of care for Veterans will focus on social, physical members of the ex-service community in Victoria. and psychological support and a strong emphasis on involving isolated and contemporary Veterans. All Headquarters Advocates and Pension Officers are trained to the appropriate level under the Training & Leongatha RSL supports the smaller traditional Information Program (TIP) and are currently undergoing Sub-Branches in the area in the form of assistance with Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) to convert their skills membership, administration and communications. The use and qualifications across to the Advocacy Training & of the facilities is provided free of charge to local groups such as Legacy Ladies, Parkinson’s Support Group and Development Program (ATDP). Probus Groups. RSL Victoria Advocates supported in excess of 150 new Epping RSL offers care packs for Veterans or their Veteran Appeals throughout 2016. During the calendar year, dependants who are in hospital which include a toiletry there were also 374 requests for financial assistance from bag, magazines, biscuits and a hand crocheted rug supplied the Veteran community directly to RSL Victoria, with more from our Poppy Ladies. This year Epping RSL introduced than $1.2M in financial assistance provided to the serving bus trips for Veterans and widows. The Epping RSL tries and ex-service community. to source destinations within an hour and a half of the RSL and most include lunch, usually at the local RSL. These bus Veterans are always our priority trips have provided an avenue for those who are not able to On days such as ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day our get out and about as much as they would like to, as well as nation unites to honour the courage and sacrifice of those enableing people to avoid the isolation. who have served. For the members, staff and volunteers of the RSL this is a year round commitment; supporting Veterans is our way of life. The St Kilda RSL Sub-Branch continues to improve and increase its Welfare and Community activities. They have a new Welfare Sub-Committee which has been operating for over 12 months and has been working hard to fulfil its aims of providing relief to members in need. In 2016 the St Kilda RSL has provided approximately $9,000 in direct relief. There is still a big focus at St Kilda RSL, as there is with all MAJGEN David McLachlan AO (Retd) having a cup of tea with a Veteran. other Sub-Branches on providing non-financial support such as companionship and assistance with every day needs such as shopping and access to medical assistance. The Bendigo District RSL has one of the strongest Post 1975 Veteran connections who constitute the majority of the Committee. The positive direction and the future of the Sub- Branch is reliant on the advice and direction of their younger Veterans moving forward. This group has achieved outstanding results in the recruitment of younger members which ensures future involvement in providing welfare and charitable advice.

After eight years of service in the RAAF, Turk the German Shepherd was allowed to retire with his handler, Corporal Bruce Ross.

Community Benefits Report 2016 7. Community Support

Every local community is different. The approach that each Sub-Branch takes to contributing to the community

matches this variety of circumstances. The RSL Sub- $6.8+ million in Branches support schools, youth programs, sporting community support groups, the sick and the elderly by providing facilities for donations community usethrough sponsorship and grants.

Altona RSL have a strong relationship with local community groups and provide the use of their Function/Meeting rooms free of charge as well as numerous donations towards community programs. The St Kilda RSL participates in a community program called The $65.25+ million total Memo Music Hall initiative showcasing a range of live music and continues to grow as a community benefit program. Rosebud RSL is recognized for supporting their community. The RSL has been privileged to host the Police Remembrance Day ceremony for a third year running. The Rosebud RSL provides annual scholarships to local students from seven schools, which are presented on Remembrance Day. The 2016 scholarships were valued at a total of $20,000. The Epping RSL donates a Good Samaritan award on a yearly basis to a student at a local school to assist a family with the purchase of a school uniform. In 2016 it was awarded to a young student who had recently lost both parents. In celebration of the Centenary of the RSL in Victoria, 100 suburban and regional football teams were provided with jumpers carrying the iconic marks of the RSL and the ANZAC Poppy knitting club, Epping RSL Appeal. RSL Victoria donated the Australian made jumpers to the participating clubs with those clubs then either selling the jumpers to the players or auctioning them off after the matches. Fifty percent of the funds raised went to the football club and fifty per cent to the RSL’s ANZAC Appeal. Over $50,000 was raised by local football clubs through the sale of the jumpers in support of the Veteran welfare work of the RSL.

Scoresby Football Club with ANZAC Appeal emblem on their jumpers

8. Community Benefits Report 2016

Each individual RSL Sub-Branch across the state of Victoria is a not-for-profit entity in its own right. Sub-Branches support their local Veteran community through commercially generated revenue as well as donations. Redevelopments allow for Sub-Branches to meet the public demand for a comfortable well-serviced facility. Our members and their guests opinions are important to us, which is why we make every effort to respond to their needs.

Opening of Sages All Abilities Pathway – Supported by Frankston RSL

Community Benefits Report 2016 9. More for Members

RSL 1 1 8 0 0 0 0

Almost 180,000 Member growth $1.5+ million RSL Rewards $10.6+ million members in Victoria of 8,137 points given away in redevelopment

Our members love their local RSL. Membership of the POINTS RSL in Victoria is at an all time high with significant growth again achieved in 2016. 134,744 members Listening and responding to members needs earned points in 2016 In 2016, the RSL introduced a range of new initiatives to address our member’s needs in a modern day. Many Sub-Branches including Seaford RSL send weekly updates about events occurring within their Sub-Branch to members via email. In doing this, they are keeping their member’s informed ensuring that they do not miss out on major prize draws, welfare events or menu updates. RSL Rewards gives Since the members bar was renovated at Altona RSL they have seen an increase in membership and more recently the introduction of the TAB has improved this area of the all members the Sub-Branch. Continued focus on great service, facilities and the introduction of a Courtesy chance to be involved Bus in early 2016 has continued to drive sales in this important area of the Sub-Branch. in major network Rosebud RSL acknowledges that technology is a challenge for some and provide training promotions and earn for those that would like to keep up. They offer free Wi Fi and an Internet Café and the new Rosebud RSL phone App is now available for all to download. Information is easily points at participating accessible, such as ‘What’s On’, Bistro Menus/Offers and Social Group contacts. RSL Sub-Branches The Bendigo District RSL have invested in significant renovations in an effort to provide across Victoria. better services to members. Bendigo District RSL have spent approximately $36,000 to remove the old tennis shed and replace it with an air-conditioned, demountable building Brian Cairns, complete with decking for member use. Chief Operating Officer, RSL Victoria RSL Rewards gives all members the chance to be involved in major network promotions and earn points at participating RSL Sub-Branches across Victoria. By holding an RSL membership card, members have reciprocal rights at RSL’s across Victoria.

LEFT RSL Rewards monthly promotion, Janet Sutherland, winner of March 2016 promotion, Frankston RSL

10. Community Benefits Report 2016 Seaford RSL underwent significant developments in 2016. Making members happy The installation of a new audio system, new IT system , new Improving facilities and customer service will continue ice machine and coffee machine, security system and Wi Fi to attract new members. Members’ nights are held twice accumulated a total cost of over $50,000. weekly at Leongatha RSL. The Sub-Branch participates in RSL Rewards, as well as area and monthly promotions Altona RSL continues to focus on the overall look and feel of the venue with a strong emphasis on member and guest for members. Leongatha RSL management and staff take comfort. They have continued to improve on the major pride in the service offered to members and patrons and in renovations completed over the past years, updating soft maintaining facilities at the highest possible standard. The furnishings, lighting, painting and AV systems in the Sub- Sub-Branch has a welcoming atmosphere and is a meeting Branch. place for both young and old.

Geelong RSL Sub-Branch gives away up to $4,000 worth of prizes at their bi-monthly member draws and meal draw nights where they provide significant discounts. These events are a huge drawcard to both current and potential members, usually getting a crowd of 250-300 people for member draw nights.

The Mentone RSL aims to fully utilise their excellent facilities and reach out to the general community. The Mentone RSL holds events including Riviera Music Club monthly shows, monthly community craft market, wedding expo’s, college dinners/lunches, birthday celebrations, Sunday afternoon music and a Seniors morning tea. Traralgon RSL

RSL Rewards In 2016, members won in excess of $250,000 worth of prizes through our statewide draws exclusively for members. Notable winners included Desmond Burge of Warnambool RSL who won himself an Indian Scout Motorcycle in the August 2016 promotion. Robert Wilson of Seaford RSL won an APT River Cruise from Vietnam to Cambodia in April and Janet Sutherland of Frankston RSL won a Hyundai Elantra in March 2016. Seaford RSL This year we launched a member exclusive website rslrewards.com.au for members to engage with the RSL in the comfort of their own homes, on their own electronic device, at a time of their choosing. Members are able to renew their RSL membership during the renewal period from 1st November to 31st January, can purchase from a range of over 150 products or can use their RSL Reward points in exchange for gifts.

The Modern RSL Recent and ongoing renovations and redevelopments provide insight into Geelong RSL’s overall operation and services. The expansion of the car park now allows it to fit up to 155 vehicles. Plans to renovate upwards, adding a second story will expand the services offered by the RSL, allowing it to provide more support and entertainment than ever before. Rosebud RSL

Community Benefits Report 2015 11. ‘

Our Volunteers

Over 12,000 730,000+ $14.5+ million in $6.7+ million raised in volunteers across volunteer hours volunteer hours 2016 through ANZAC and the network Poppy Appeals

Volunteers are the lifeblood of the RSL. These amazing people work diligently to fundraise, help Veterans, ensure the community commemorates appropriately and supports their local community in a multitude of ways.

The RSL is a volunteer organisation and is led and run by volunteers at all levels, from our State President, our State Executive Committee and within our local Sub-Branches. Every RSL volunteer plays a vital role within their community, and without them the RSL could not exist. Our volunteers work tirelessly and provide support throughout the year, particularly for Appeals and Veteran Welfare activities.

Hall of Fame Inductees 2016 oustanding honourary service in a variety of positions. Ian’s long and dedicated service to the league is both recognised Each year the RSL recognises our most dedicated by and appreciated by the Bentleigh RSL. inducting them into our Hall of Fame. Employees and volunteers from across the State attended an awards night For over 24 years, Robert (Bob) Gannaway has worn many which in 2016 was held at the RSL Centenary Dinner. The hats as he undertook many tasks, small and large for his night included a three course meal, guest speakers and beloved Healesville RSL. From organising educational entertainment. It was a wonderful night and a great way tours for locals Scouts, Guides and schools to arranging to honour those who give the most to the RSL and their ANZAC Day highlights such as a Tiger Moth flypast, the communities. Roulettes flypast and jeep convoys. Bob’s service to the RSL community has been inspirational. Since joining the Greensborough RSL in 2001, Dal Crocker has been a tower of strength whilst providing a balance to John Merrett takes charge of so many tasks around the the Sub-Branch, its Committee and the RSL movement. Epping RSL Sub-Branch including driving for supplies when Dal was elected for a Committee position in 2002 and his they run short. John also organises care packages and knowledge and drive soon saw him achieve the position of delivers them personally to people in hospital. These care Vice President which he has retained for the past 14 years. packages contain toiletries and personal needs as well gifts such as a hand knitted blanket from our knitting group. Even Edith Stakelum of Bentleigh RSL has spent many years though John has moved to Kilmore in the last two years dedicated to raising funds for the welfare of Veterans of he still drives 40km each way to and from the RSL 3 – 4 all wars and conflicts including spending 43 years as a times per week or to just visit someone who is in need of Women’s Auxiliary member/delegate. Edith’s compassion assistance. for our War Widows sees her driving many kilometres each week to take gifts and stories or just holding their hand Ray McCarthy was awarded a Life Membership of the whilst visiting them in hospital or their home, dedicating RSL in 2012 after he had devoted over 20 consecutive hundreds of volunteer hours per year. years of service. Ray is still President of the VVAA and this relationship has enhanced all areas of the Noble Park RSL Ian Butcher joined the Bentleigh RSL Sub-Branch in through increased membership and RSL participation. His 1990 and was elected as a member of the Sub-Branch extensive knowledge of the building trade has been an Committee in 1993. Since that date he has provided ongoing asset to the Sub-Branch.

12. Community Benefits Report 2016 Tony Bowden OAM and Life Member of the League has During 2016 six training sessions were held both in metro been President of Box Hill RSL since 1997 and under his and regional locations. A session was also held on a guidance, and with help from ANZAC House, he has led the Saturday to accommodate Committee members who transformation of the Sub-Branch into a viable business work during the week. Since the inception of the Corporate in under 5 years. This transformation also included the Governance training program in 2015, a total of 26 training appointment of the first paid Welfare Co-ordinator at Box sessions have been held with over 500 Committee Hill Sub-Branch and the introduction of services to Veterans members undertaking the training across 72 Licensed Sub- such as free haircuts, gardening services and medical Branches. aids. He has volunteered hours of painstaking research Another initiative introduced in 2016 was the creation into the names of local people named on the Cenotaph in and implementation of a Sub-Branch Charity Guide. This Box Hill Gardens which has resulted in the publication of a guide encompasses all the responsibilities associated with book which has been distributed to schools in the City of successfully maintaining the Sub-Branch charity status Whitehorse. with the Australian Charities & Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC). The Charity Guide is a practical reference tool Corporate Governance to assist Sub-Branches to gain a better understanding of The RSL Victorian State Branch recognises the importance the law in relation to charities. The Charity Guide includes of ensuring that Sub-Branch Committees are fulfilling their various templates to be utilised at a Committee level to responsibilities to their members. The State Branch has assist with this compliance. invested significant resources and funds in the development of Corporate Governance within the Sub-Branch network. The Corporate Governance Compliance Manual has been in place since 2006 and through the re-establishment of the Corporate Governance Compliance Committee in 2015, this manual was updated to reflect more modern responsibilities and practices. The implementation of the new manual also led to the establishment of Corporate Governance training sessions for Committees of large Licensed Sub-Branches. Corporate Governance is more than just an in-fashion corporate terminology. Put simply, corporate governance is a broad-ranging term which amongst other things, encompasses the rules, relationships, policies, systems and processes whereby authority within a Sub-Branch is exercised and maintained. The integrity of the RSL brand is something that all Committee should ensure is protected RSL Training and maintained for generations to come.

2016 Hall of Fame inductees

Community Benefits Report 2016 13. Employer of Choice

2,200+ employees $76+ million in state wide employee wages

When members and visitors enter Glenn Sanders, Manager of Bentleigh RSL accepts his award from RSL Victoria State President Dr Robert Webster and Premier of Victoria The Hon. our Licensed Sub-Branches, their Daniel Andrews MP,

first impression is that of our friendly managing a team. Glenn Sanders, Manager of Bentleigh RSL and professional staff. As a collective, and recipient of Sub-Branch Manager of the Year accepted his award with pride and dignity. the RSL network significantly ‘I have enormous respect for the RSL and I was humbled contributes to the economic and jobs and honoured to be named 2016 Sub Branch Manager of the Year. The award though could not be achieved without growth in Victoria as we remain a the dedication and support from the team at Bentleigh RSL. signficant source of employment in Glenn Sanders, Manager of Bentleigh RSL Sub-Branch.’ the hospitality industry.

RSL Victoria appreciate our staff members who exemplify the mission of the RSL through their daily conduct and the way in which they make each RSL the respected esablishments they are today. We recognise and value Sub-Branch staff in the effort that they contribute to RSL Victoria as a network. It is our staff that bring a smile to member’s faces every day while delivering an exceptional level of customer service. Geelong RSL believe that weekly strategic meetings and bi- monthly staff meetings give staff members’ more ownership Michael Annett, RSL Victoria State Secretary, Andrew Hanns, President of Geelong RSL and Mark Laing, ANZ over the business success, making them more accountable for their actions while also acknowledging a job well done. The Geelong RSL Sub-Branch have also committed to up-skilling staff through a variety of training and learning experiences. The RSL have taken on two corporate partners to help with OH&S and human resource compliance and deliver regular staff appraisal programs that are vital for future training and continuous improvement. Staff support such as this is complementary to the running of a successful Sub-Branch and saw Geelong RSL being awarded the 2016 Sub-Branch of the Year Award. The RSL Victoria Network also see determination and innovative thinking to be an extremely effective way of Leigh Proud, Manager of Longbeach RSL accepts his Achievement and Recognition Award from Luke Gilholme, Chief Financial Officer, RSL Victoria

14. Community Benefits Report 2016 RSL Centenary

The earliest beginnings of the RSL were formed at a meeting in Melbourne in 1916. This year we all had the privilege of celebrating 100 years of the RSL’s commitment to Veterans, Commemoration, Community and Volunteers.

The Centenary year of 2016 was completed in fine style with the RSL Victoria Centenary Dinner, held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre on Saturday 26th November. Over 1,000 people attended the black tie event where guest speaker the Governor-General, His Excellency General the Hon. Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC (Retd) provided an inspirational keynote presentation on the role of the RSL in the fabric of this great nation. This was followed by moving words from the Premier of Victoria The Hon. Daniel Andrews MP. The event was also the opportunity to celebrate the Licensed Sub-Branches’ annual Hall of Fame inductees and was topped off with amazing performances by Australian Army vocalist Liz Cherry, Lee Kernaghan and a rousing set from Daryl Braithwaite. Captain Steve Bowater and MAJGEN David Coghlan

RSL Centenary Dinner 2016 Main Stage

Community Benefits Report 2016 15. RSL Sub-Branches (By Local Government Area )

1 City of Ballarat Following is a list of Sub-Branches ordered by Ballarat RSL Buninyong RSL Local Government. Licensed Sub-Branches are Sebastopol RSL

highlighted in bold, and lisensed Sub-Branches 2 City of Greater Bendigo with gaming are underlined. Bendigo District RSL Elmore RSL Heathcote RSL Kangaroo Flat RSL

3 Shire of Central Goldfields Dunolly-Bealiba RSL Maryborough RSL Talbot RSL

4 Shire of Hepburn Clunes RSL Creswick-Smeaton RSL Daylesford RSL

5 Shire of Loddon Boort RSL Inglewood-Bridgewater RSL Mitiamo-East Loddon RSL Wedderburn-Korongvale RSL

6 Shire of Macedon Ranges Gisborne-Macedon Ranges RSL Kyneton RSL Romsey-Lancefield RSL Woodend RSL

7 Shire of Mitchell Broadford RSL Kilmore-Wallan RSL Seymour RSL

8 Shire of Moorabool Bacchus Marsh RSL Ballan RSL

9 Shire of Mount Alexander Castlemaine RSL Maldon RSL

10 Bass Coast Shire TOP Inverloch RSL Local Government Areas - Victoria Phillip Island RSL Bottom Wonthaggi RSL Local Government Areas - Melbourne 11 City of Latrobe Moe RSL Morwell RSL Traralgon RSL Yallourn-Newborough RSL

16. Community Benefits Report 2016 12 Shire of Baw Baw 22 Rural Sea Lake RSL Drouin RSL Benalla RSL Wycheproof RSL Longwarry RSL 23 Rural Trafalgar-Thorpdale RSL 36 Shire of Gannawarra Warragul RSL Wangaratta RSL Cohuna-Leitchville RSL 13 Shire of East Gippsland 24 Shire of Indigo Kerang & District RSL Koondrook RSL Bairnsdale RSL Beechworth RSL Cann River RSL Kiewa RSL 37 Ensay-Swifts Creek RSL Rutherglen RSL Warrnambool RSL Lakes Entrance RSL 25 Shire of Mansfield Mallacoota RSL 38 Corangamite Shire Metung RSL Mansfield RSL Camperdown RSL Omeo RSL Woods Point RSL Derrinallum RSL Orbost RSL Terang RSL Paynesville RSL 26 Shire of Murrindindi Alexandra RSL 39 Pyrenees Shire 14 Shire of Wellington Eildon RSL Avoca RSL Briagolong RSL Marysville RSL Ripon-Beaufort RSL Heyfield RSL Thornton RSL Loch Sport RSL Yea-Kinglake RSL 40 Rural Maffra RSL Ararat RSL Rosedale RSL 27 Shire of Towong Lake Bolac RSL Sale RSL Corryong RSL Willaura RSL Stratford RSL Tallangatta RSL Yarram RSL 28 41 Shire of Glenelg Casterton RSL 15 South Gippsland Shire Queenscliff-Point Lonsdale RSL Heywood RSL Fish Creek RSL Portland RSL Foster RSL Sub-Branch Inc 29 City of Greater Geelong Korumburra RSL Drysdale RSL 42 Shire of Moyne Leongatha RSL Geelong RSL Macarthur RSL Meeniyan RSL Lara RSL Mortlake RSL Mirboo North RSL Norlane RSL Port Fairy RSL Ocean Grove-Barwon Heads RSL 16 City of Greater Shepparton Portarlington-St. Leonards RSL 43 Shire of Southern Grampians Dookie RSL Balmoral RSL Murchison RSL 30 Colac Otway Shire Cavendish RSL Shepparton RSL Apollo Bay RSL Coleraine RSL Tatura RSL Colac RSL Dunkeld RSL 17 Shire of Campaspe 31 Golden Plains Shire Hamilton RSL Penshurst RSL Echuca RSL Inverleigh RSL Girgarre RSL Meredith RSL 44 Rural Kyabram RSL Rokewood RSL Horsham RSL Rochester RSL Natimuk RSL Rushworth RSL 32 Surf Coast Shire Stanhope RSL Anglesea RSL 45 Shire of Hindmarsh Tongala RSL Lorne RSL Dimboola RSL Torquay RSL Jeparit RSL 18 Shire of Moira Winchelsea RSL Nhill RSL Nathalia-Picola RSL 33 Rural Numurkah RSL 46 Shire of Northern Grampians Strathmerton RSL Merbein RSL St Arnaud RSL Yarrawonga-Mulwala RSL Mildura RSL Stawell RSL Ouyen RSL 19 Shire of Strathbogie Red Cliffs-Irymple RSL 47 Shire of West Wimmera Avenel RSL Harrow RSL Euroa RSL 34 Rural City of Kaniva RSL Nagambie RSL Manangatang RSL Langkoop-Apsley RSL Violet Town RSL Piangil RSL Robinvale RSL 48 Shire of Yarriambiack 20 Alpine Shire Swan Hill RSL Hopetoun RSL Bright RSL Woorinen RSL Minyip RSL Mount Beauty RSL Murtoa RSL Myrtleford RSL 35 Shire of Buloke Patchewollock RSL Birchip RSL Rupanyup RSL 21 Charlton RSL Warracknabeal RSL Wodonga RSL Donald RSL

Community Benefits Report 2016 17. 49 City of Banyule 62 City of Manningham 75 City of Yarra Greensborough RSL Doncaster RSL Richmond RSL Ivanhoe RSL Templestowe RSL Tramways-East Melbourne RSL Montmorency-Eltham RSL Warrandyte RSL Watsonia RSL 76 Shire of Cardinia West Heidelberg RSL 63 City of Maribyrnong Bunyip RSL Footscray RSL Cockatoo RSL 50 City of Bayside Maribyrnong RSL Emerald RSL Beaumaris RSL Yarraville RSL Gembrook RSL Hampton RSL Koo Wee Rup RSL 64 City of Maroondah Lang Lang RSL 51 City of Boroondara Croydon RSL Nar Nar Goon RSL Camberwell City RSL Ringwood RSL Pakenham RSL Hawthorn RSL Upper Beaconsfield RSL Kew RSL 65 City of Melbourne North Balwyn RSL BCOF 77 Shire of Mornington Peninsula Defence Sub-Branch Crib Point RSL 52 City of Brimbank Flemington-Kensington RSL Dromana-Red Hill RSL 1st Serbian Headquarters Flinders RSL Sunshine RSL Interstate Transfers Hastings RSL Korea RSL Mornington RSL 53 City of Casey Melbourne RSL Rosebud RSL Berwick RSL Merchant Navy RSL Rye RSL Cranbourne RSL Returned and Servicewomen RSL Sorrento-Portsea RSL Returned Nurses RSL 78 Shire of Nillumbik 54 City of Darebin 66 City of Melton Diamond Creek-Doreen RSL Darebin RSL Caroline Springs RSL Hurstbridge RSL Italian RSL Melton RSL Reservoir RSL 79 Shire of Yarra Ranges 67 City of Monash Dandenong Ranges RSL 55 City of Frankston Burwood RSL Healesville RSL Frankston RSL Clayton RSL Lilydale RSL Peninsula Ex-Servicewomen RSL Oakleigh-Carnegie RSL Monbulk RSL Seaford RSL Red Shield RSL Mount Evelyn RSL Waverley RSL Upper Yarra RSL 56 City of Glen Eira Upwey-Belgrave RSL Bentleigh RSL 68 City of Moonee Valley Warburton RSL Caulfield RSL Essendon RSL Yarra Glen RSL New Zealand RSL Keilor East RSL

57 City of Greater Dandenong 69 City of Moreland Dandenong-Cranbourne RSL Coburg RSL Noble Park RSL Fawkner RSL Springvale RSL Glenroy RSL Pascoe Vale RSL For a full Sub-Branch 58 City of Hobsons Bay directory including Altona RSL 70 City of Port Phillip Mitcham RSL Elwood RSL contact details please Newport RSL Hellenic RSL visit rslvic.com.au Polish RSL St Kilda RSL Spotswood-Kingsville RSL Turkish Information Williamstown RSL 71 City of Stonnington The information and statistics contained within this report 59 City of Hume East Malvern RSL have been assembled from Sunbury RSL Prahran RSL various sources including Toora RSL audited financial statements 60 City of Kingston Toorak RSL and community benefits Bentleigh RSL - Cheltenham statements submitted to the Highett RSL 72 City of Whitehorse VCGLR. RSL Sub-Branches Longbeach RSL Blackburn RSL have submitted much of the Mentone RSL Box Hill RSL evidence of the work they do. To the best of our knowledge, at the time of publication, 61 City of Knox 73 City of Whittlesea all information is a true and Balwyn RSL Epping RSL accurate reflection of the RSL Bayswater RSL Whittlesea RSL in Victoria. Boronia RSL 74 City of Wyndham Werribee RSL

18. Community Benefits Report 2016

Thank you

We thank our Sub-Branches for their tireless dedication to the work of the RSL across Victoria and for helping to assemble this report. To the Committees, Volunteers and Staff that assisted; thank you. The support of the Community is integral to the success of RSL Victoria as a major provider of Welfare Assistance to both current and former Veterans.

Looking ahead

Our core mission remains steadfast, providing welfare and support to current and former Veterans and their families. We look to new opportunities, and encourage collaboration within the Veteran community.

ANZAC Appeal Volunteers, RSL Victoria thank all staff and volunteers for their ongoing dedication to making the RSL what it is today.

Achievement Award Winners 2016

Community Benefits Report 2015 19. RSL Victoria Community Benefits Report 2016 Returned & Services League of Australia (Victoria Branch) Inc.

ANZAC House 4 Collins St Melbourne VIC 3000 P: 03 9655 5555 E: [email protected] W: www.rslvic.com.au