RSL Community Benefits Report 2017 Introduction

RSL Victoria’s key mission is to provide support services to current and former service men and women and their dependents in times of need.

This has been our core mission since our establishment in 1916 and now, over one hundred years later, we continue to uphold our mission during significant Commemorative events throughout the year supporting our volunteers, staff and extended community. There are over 280 Sub-Branches throughout the state of Victoria and it is likely that when travelling from the most north east point to the most south west point of the state, you will come across numerous sets of RSL signage, Cenotaphs and Avenues of Honour. Our presence represents the outpouring of support for the Returned & Services League by Victorians of all ages in these communities. In 2017, our licensed Sub-Branches collectively donated over $7.7 million in support of their communities and contributed over $89 million in community benefits. Heading into our second century, we hope that it will be one which would stand out as a time of inspiration, motivation and collaboration. Our network of more than 11,000 volunteers, over 2,200 staff and 190,011 members will ensure that it will be a fabulous year for the RSL and its community throughout Victoria. The 2017 Community Benefits Report provides an overview of successes throughout the year. We are thankful for the support of our volunteers and cannot underestimate the significant role they play within the community, having donated more than 710,000 hours in 2017 alone.

Dr Robert Webster OAM State President, RSL Victoria

2. Community Benefits Report 2017

Contents

Commemoration 4 Veteran Support 7 Community Support 8 More for Members 10 Our Volunteers 12 Governance 13 Employer of Choice 14 The Future 15 RSL Sub-Branches 16 Thank You 19

Cover: 5,000 Poppies Project, Shrine of Remembrance 2017, Photographer: Claire Takacs

Background Photograph: Shrine of Remembrance, ANZAC Day 2017, Photographer: Marcus Thompson

Community Benefits Report 2017 3. Commemoration

“This evening, we are delighted to Our Second World War veterans, despite dwindling acknowledge your new State President, numbers in the March itself, did get a great deal of deserved focus this year. The 75th Anniversary of the Rob Webster OAM, to congratulate him on Battle of the Coral Sea, Milne Bay and the Kokoda his recognition in the recent Day campaigns and the proper observance of the Anniversary honours, and to say how much Tony and of VE and VP Day at the Shrine this year, which the I look forward to spending time with him State Branch helped to organise, also played a part in reinforcing our debt to this great generation. and Jenni. He is in for a busy year, as the RSL continues its good work supporting The 99th Anniversary of Armistice was marked by strong attendances at RSL activities around the state as its members, and prepares to mark many we approach the Centenary in 2018, and the very large particular anniversaries, including the Remembrance Sunday Service at the Springvale War 75th anniversaries of The Battle of the Coral Cemetery was also a highlight in 2017. Sea, the Kokoda Track Campaign and the Other significant commemorations supported by the RSL Battle of El Alamein, as well as the 100th this year included the 50th Anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan which marks a milestone for all our Vietnam anniversaries of the Battle of Polygon Wood Veterans, and many other Veteran commemorations, and the Battle of Beersheba.” including the Indigenous Veteran Service were also supported by the RSL at the Shrine in 2017. Together Speech by the Governor of Victoria, The Hon. Linda with our contribution to the 100th Anniversary of the Dessau AC, RSL Remembrance Reception at ANZAC Australian Light Horse charge at Beersheba on 31st House. October 2017, the Victorian Branch of the RSL has had a very extensive and successful year of Veteran commemoration in 2017. The RSL remains the key facilitator and custodian of Veteran commemoration throughout Victoria and in Brigadier Michael Annett CSC doing this we fulfil a key part of our mission. We foster State Secretary, RSL Victoria respect and thanks from the nation for all those who have made sacrifices in Australia’s name. On a wet day throughout much of the state on ANZAC Day 2017 we had a smaller Dawn Service at the Shrine and March than in recent years, but the occasion was well supported, and the spirit of all participants was clear to see. Approx. 30,000 Many of our Sub-Branches reported very strong Shrine of Remembrance attendances at services and marches, which, given all of Dawn Service attendance the hard work of our volunteers, was very pleasing.

ANZAC Day Service Shrine of Remembrance

4. Community Benefits Report 2017 In August 2017, Keilor East RSL held a Long Tan Vietnam RSL Victoria support each Veteran’s Commemorative Service and Lunch that drew a of our Sub-Branches in great crowd. Wreaths were laid at the Long Tan Cross, as this is the recognised symbol for Vietnam Veterans. The responding to community Sub-Branch put on a free lunch for all service members. feedback when conducting Keilor East RSL had a large attendance at their ANZAC Day 2017 march and Dawn Service. The Light Horse Brigade commemorative events on lead the marchers behind the Rats of Tobruk pipe band, followed by 12 Light Horsemen from Creswick Light Horse significant days such as ANZAC Troop. This was followed by Veterans, cadets, scouts, Day and Remembrance Day and guides and members. At Rosebud RSL, ceremonial activities on ANZAC and making these days special. Remembrance Day continue to grow and Rosebud RSL embrace local community participation. Record numbers Darebin RSL have inherited a large amount of braved the cold on ANZAC Day to attend the Dawn Service commemoration activities since the closure of Fairfield- where attendees were silenced by the sounds of the lone Alphington RSL and the Northcote RSL. Since 1974 the piper. Following the Dawn Service, volunteers served Northcote RSL provided a commemorative service in breakfast to over 500 people with meals in the bistro along partnership with the Northcote Police to commemorate the with an outdoor sausage sizzle. execution of Corporal Rodney Breavington by the Japanese in WWII. Corporal Breavington was an Acting Sergeant at Over 1,000 people attended the Seaford Cenotaph on ANZAC Northcote Police Station prior to enlisting in the Australian Day 2017. Joined by guest speaker LCDR Tristan Hertier, Army. A Rodney Breavington Award has been presented along with the Kananook Primary School Choir, Senior Vice to a serving Northcote Police Member since 1974. This President of Seaford RSL, Peter Kerley conducted a sombre ceremony was held at the Northcote RSL until its closure and reflective service that honoured the nature of the day. then the Fairfield/Alphington RSL and subsequently the Three hundred people attended the service on Remembrance Darebin RSL now proudly continues this tradition. Day which included a wreath laying ceremony, speeches from Veterans and local school children. Epping RSL hold their pre-ANZAC service and March on the Sunday before ANZAC Day. With the support of the The Phillip Island RSL ANZAC Day service has grown Police and the , the road is blocked off significantly over the years. From a handheld microphone, a and Veterans and their families march down High Street portable PA and about 200 people back in 2006 to today to the original site of the RSL, which is now the Epping averaging between 5,000 and 7,000 people – a full scale Community Hall. It is very moving to see the ex-diggers event with sound systems, video cameras, big screen, choirs, march with pride with elderly Veterans riding in army jeeps. poetry and exhibitions attracting the local community and Many other groups also march including cadets, scouts, visitors. police, CFA and SES.

Commemorating at Epping RSL Yarra Glen RSL ANZAC Day service

Community Benefits Report 2017 5.

The RSL was founded in 1916 to provide comradeship and support to Australia’s Veterans and their families. That core mission has never changed but has continued to evolve to meet the needs of each generation of servicemen and women. We have a Sub-Branch network that covers Australia and any Veteran who needs help will get it, as every serving ADF member and Veteran will be warmly welcomed by their local RSL. We will continue to advocate for the best possible conditions for our serving men and women.

ANZAC House

6. Community Benefits Report 2017 Veteran Support

Veteran Support Veterans are always our priority Sub-Branch volunteer Advocates, Pensions Officers Dandenong-Cranbourne RSL provide funding to Young and Welfare Coordinators provide specific assistance to Veteran programs where the aim is to encourage young Veterans in need. These services are free of charge to Veterans to take ownership of the programs and to run all current and former members of the ADF and their them themselves. The Sub-Branch vision is to support families. the Young Veterans to become self-sufficient with programs creating employment through skill learning RSL Victoria supports its Sub-Branches with and sharing. professional and qualified Advocates and Pension Officers who are trained under the Training & The Smoke Alarm initiative at Seaford RSL took on Information Program (TIP) and where required can the project of updating Veterans smoke alarms and complete Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) courses. electricity meter boards. Sixty-eight Veterans homes’ This training enables their skills and qualifications smoke detectors were updated with the installation of to be transferred across to the Advocacy Training & long life lithium batteries ensuring the smoke alarms will Development Program (ADTP). be working in these houses for the next 10 years. Throughout 2017, RSL Victoria Advocates supported Keilor East RSL arrange for Veterans and war widows’ over 185 new Veteran Appeals and 403 requests for lawns to be mowed on a regular basis, which is funded financial assistance. Over $1.2M in financial assistance by their General Appeals account. At the end of was provided to the serving and ex-service community September in 2017, Keilor East RSL had paid for 774 directly from the office of ANZAC House alone. lawns to be mowed, 7 trees to be chopped down, 43 shrubs to be trimmed and several other garden and maintenance issues have been taken care of. The staff at Bentleigh RSL Sub-Branch encorporating Cheltenham-Moorabbin RSL are experienced in Aged- care matters and are able to provide information about health issues, particularly those related to the ex-service community. Bentleigh-Cheltenham RSL provide individuals, family members and the broader community with information and advice including exercise programs, friendship programs, taxi vouchers, emergency services programs and counselling services.

Former RSL Victoria State President David McLachlan OAM with Jeff Jackson OAM, Manager – Pensions, Advocacy and Welfare Support and Wendy Bateman, Manager – Aged and Health Support

Support group at Bentleigh RSL Veteran support, Keilor East RSL

Community Benefits Report 2017 7. Community Support

Each RSL recognizes the importance of maintaining a strong relationship with their community. Sub-Branches work with local organisations and schools to $7.7M+ in community support donations provide facilities and opportunities through sponsorships, and grants as well as access to RSL Sub-Branch facilities. Our Sub- Branch network prides itself on supporting $89M total a diverse community across the state. community benefit

Epping RSL continues to provide community support providing scholarships and bursaries for local schools to assists children with reading disabilities and also sponsorship for disadvantaged children to attend Portsea Camp. The Epping RSL Good Samaritan Award is given each year to a pupil at a local school to assist a family with the purchase of a school uniform. The Keilor East RSL has a formidable reputation for its fundraising efforts through their very generous members. In 2017 the Sub-Branch raised $20,844.25 which was donated to various charities, including the Royal Children’s Hospital Appeal. Their commitment to the ‘Very Special Kids’ appeal continues to gain momentum raising $10,842 in 2017. The Joey’s Kids Club at Phillip Island RSL has been an integral tool in promoting the family friendly message to members. The school holiday programs are primarily for Joey’s Kids Club members nevertheless, non-member children also attend. Home visits were introduced in late 2016 at Phillip Island RSL. Policy and volunteer training was a major factor when re-establishing this program to ensure that the volunteers were well equipped with the skills and the understandings of Traralgon showing their support on ANZAC Day 2017 new government policies in regards to visiting individuals at home. Bentleigh-Cheltenham RSL continues to deliver services to the community in their support of over 30 local sporting and community partnerships. Since the amalgamation of the two Sub-Branches in 2016, the commitment to excellent customer service, member support and Veteran services continues to develop. Local mosaic artist Sankar Nadeson was commissioned by Sunshine RSL to create 14 mosaic pictures depicting the history of Australian Service which will be on permanent display throughout the main shopping district of Sunshine. A phone application will soon be available explaining each mosaic piece and the history behind the person or scene involved. Each picture will have the logos of the RSL, Victorian Government and Centenary of ANZAC.

Families support the ANZAC Day March

8. Community Benefits Report 2017 Peter Burquest and Murray Lewis from Caroline Springs RSL raising money for the ANZAC Appeal with Bunnings staff.

The value and volume of support each Sub-Branch provides within their local community, along with their not-for-profit presence cannot be underestimated. Revenue from commercial activity provides these amazing communities services and support Veterans, their families and the local community.

Community Benefits Report 2017 9. More for Members

RSL 1 1 9 0 0 1 0 Almost 190,011 Member growth $9.1M+ in $2.2M+ in members in Victoria of 12,128 redevelopment costs RSL Reward Points awarded to members

The RSL is a special place for our many members. It Listening and responding to members needs is a place they come to be Over the past year, we have learned a lot about our members. We can see that members social, to be entertained are responding in a positive and proactive manner to our member website, which was and to be supported in their launched in November 2016. Members are actively using rslrewards.com.au to make local community. purchases and renew their membership online. To ensure that the website is meeting consumer demand, products are continuously updated. In September 2017, RSL Victoria conducted a The Darebin RSL has worked to provide a point of contact for its Service Members with the member survey, to gain implementation in 2016 of “Service Member Mondays”. This initiative is a series of monthly an understanding into our dinners provided free of charge to Service Members and their dependents to continue members’ perception of the to foster the feeling of comradery. This also provides the Members, the Committee and RSL. Here are some of the Employees of the Sub-Branch, a chance to come together and look in on one another reasons our members joined regularly ensuring nobody “drops off the radar” without being noticed. the RSL: Monthly Morning Melodies at Keilor East RSL is renowned around the area and broader “The meals are fantastic community. Each month Keilor East RSL have over 180 people attending who are provided and I look forward to with a light lunch of sandwiches and pastries. Guests are entertained for 2 hours with music eating there every Sunday of a by gone era, with many residents and visitors dancing with our volunteers. In April evening.” 2017 Keilor East RSL celebrated 17 years of Morning Melodies. Dandenong-Cranbourne RSL offer a range of member activities such as themed member “The RSL is a gathering night’s on Tuesday’s and Thursday’s and Friday night raffles. Sunday Sippers attracts large of people who share amounts of younger members and guests with a modern approach to live entertainment. common beliefs.” The Spring Racing Carnival is very popular with Ladies Oaks Day and Cup “As an Ex-Service Day allowing our female members and guests the opportunity to frock up and enjoy the member, the RSL has Fashions on the Field contest. always supported me and now I can support it.” The RSL Rewards program provides all members with the opportunity to be involved in promotional activities and member draws simply by swiping their card. Brian Cairns Chief Operating Officer, RSL Victoria

Sandra Mitchell, winner of our August 2017 RSL Rewards June 2017 promotion promotion with Waverley RSL Manager, Chris Toohey

10. Community Benefits Report 2017 Making members happy By ensuring members are engaged, comfortable and having fun, RSL Sub-Branches are actively contributing to an enjoyable environment. Epping RSL have recently added a new large outside playground which adds to the family friendly atmosphere. The colorful playground is visible from the street and assists in attracting visitors from the rapidly expanding local residential area. At Keilor East RSL indoor bowls is played every Friday night where the over 75 year old’s have a game of bowls, a few drinks and a whole lot of laughs which combine to make a very enjoyable social outing. Staff members atSheparton RSL celebrated Australia Day 2017 in style. A free sausage sizzle, monster raffle and live music helped to fly the flag for a great display of national pride.

RSL Rewards In 2017, members won in excess of $200,000 worth of prizes through network promotions. The Shepparton RSL team Notable winners include Sandra Mitchell of Waverley RSL who won herself an Indian Scout celebrating Australia Day with members Motorbike in the August network promotion and Stuart Conwey of Bendigo District RSL, who won our first ever $20,000 cash members draw on November 30, 2017! For every dollar a member spends within a participating RSL Sub-Branch, they are entitled to receive 2 RSL Reward Points. These points can then be redeemed either in a participating RSL on food or beverage, or on our member website rslrewards.com.au In early 2017, RSL Victoria ran a three-month trial of double points across Sub-Branches on an opt-in basis. The results indicated that Sub-Branches who participated in the promotion experienced a higher volume of transactions year on year. RSL Victoria introduced a Loyalty Champion program in 2017, where selected Sub-Branch staff were taken out of their own environment to learn about trends in the industry. This program aims to educate staff about the importance of each step of the customer journey to ensure that members will benefit from an increase in staff knowledge. Longbeach RSL Entrance before renovation The modern RSL The renovations at Longbeach RSL which were completed in April 2017 have helped to bring welcome change to the club with not only with an increase to their membership base but also with a lifted spirt of the members. The renovation includes a Memorabilia Wall which is a peaceful and tranquil area where visitors can come to reflect. The idea is to offer select pieces of history and portray them in an exhibition style of setting. Bentleigh-Cheltenham RSL are continually upgrading their business operations to ensure that both campuses offer reputable food and beverage options. The campus’s have been rebranded to include a Guest Services Officer. Both campuses offer environmentally sustainable options including lighting, online training resources, digital signage and the use of ipads to communicate. Epping RSL have recently refurbished their bistro with new carpet, chairs, tables and have also improved the bar with a new façade, making it more comfortable for members and guests. The Epping RSL Bistro and Bar has been renamed the Batallion Bistro and Bar, in line with these improvements. Epping RSL are planning a kitchen extension to cope with Longbeach RSL Entrance after renovation the increase in patronage and to improve efficiency in staff operation.

Community Benefits Report 2017 11. Our Volunteers

11,000+ volunteers 710,000+ in $14.2M+ in $5.6M+ raised through across the network volunteer hours volunteer hours ANZAC and Poppy Appeal

RSL Victoria volunteers work Hall of Fame inductees 2017 tirelessly to provide support in The Annual Hall of Fame Awards Gala provides an opportunity for the Network to celebrate the generosity the areas of Veteran support, of individuals, whose dedication and respect for Service personnel, past and present is unwaivering. In 2017 four commemoration, fundraising, names were added to the list of inductees to the RSL events, education and Victoria Hall of Fame. Marilyn Ryan has been a member of the RSL for 31 years community functions. and has been Welfare Officer atAltona RSL since 2009. Marilyn was appointed as a Delegate in Region Three in The support provided by our volunteers including Veterans, 2017 and undertakes a mentoring role in that Region when off duty staff and community groups is driven by initiatives required. She initiated the increase in the number of trained implemented by each Sub-Branch Committee, who are also TIP Welfare Officers to cover the Altona and Williamstown volunteers. areas due to the increased need in these areas. RSL Victoria upholds its volunteer footprint particularly John Paterson was appointed to the State Executive through bi-annual fundraising Appeals and major Committee in 2009 and only recently retired due to ill commemorative activity in the and at the health. Since 2013, John has held the position of Secretary Shrine of Remembrance. and Appeals Officer atPascoe Vale RSL and holds he position of Deputy Chairman on the Region Three Committee. John was awarded an RSL Life Membership in 2009. Ian Caines is the President at Moe RSL. Ian’s active involvement in the wider ex-service community, combined with continuing experience on the Executive of the Moe Sub-Branch has provided Ian with the knowledge of the challenges facing the RSL including improved corporate governance. He is committed to identifying strategies to maintain and assist Moe RSL through critically challenging times and continues to work diligently on behalf of all members. Since his initial election to the Committee of Management in 1977 and until the current day as President, Robert Cross has tirelessly served the Preston now Darebin RSL for over 40 years. As President, Robert has been the driving force with regard to the Sub-Branch establishing itself in the State President Robert Wester OAM and Jay O’Brien, District Executive from ANZ Bank induct Marilyn Ryan, Altona RSL, John Paterson, Pascoe Community of Preston and its surrounding suburbs, taking Vale RSL, Ian Caines, Moe RSL and Robert Cross, Darebin RSL into the Hall the initiative to grow the presence of the RSL movement. of Fame

12. Community Benefits Report 2017 Governance

89% of large Licensed Sub-Branch Committees conducted Corporate Governance training in 2017

RSL Victoria recognises the importance of ensuring that the State Branch and Sub-Branches are fulfilling their responsibilities to their members. The integrity of the RSL is paramount to ensure it is protected and maintained for generations to come.

In 2017, the Corporate Governance training program Furthermore, 2018 will see the introduction of a Governance for large Licensed Sub-Branch Committee members eLearning module. This module will be available on-line and continued. During the year, three training sessions were will be accessible to Committee members of all Victorian held with a total of 59 attendees. This included a session RSL Sub-Branches. Significant time and resources have which was held on a Saturday to accommodate Committee been put into this project. This Governance module has members who work during the week. Since the inception been created to assist Sub-Branch Committee members of the Corporate Governance training program in 2015, a to effectively navigate through the challenges and total of 29 training sessions have been held with over 550 commitments faced by Sub-Branch Committees. There has Committee members undertaking the training across the never been a more important time than now to ensure that large Licensed Sub-Branch network. Sub-Branches are operating in line with the RSL Objects and are leading the way as community-based charities. In addition, 2017 produced the first Corporate Governance training sessions specifically for Committee members from small Licensed Sub-Branches. There were a total of 4 sessions held, including a Saturday session, whereby 72 attendees across 30 Sub-Branches were present. These sessions were greatly supported and well received by attendees and will see these sessions continue into 2018 and beyond. 2017 saw the development and implementation of the Corporate Governance manual tailored specifically for small Licensed Sub-Branches. Looking forward to 2018, the Governance Committee has been working hard on various governance training options. Face-to-face Governance training for large Licensed Sub- Branches will continue for all new Committee members and Committee members yet to complete the training. Also, as stated above, face-to-face training will continue for small Governance Training Licensed Sub-Branches.

Community Benefits Report 2017 13. Employer of Choice

Sub-Branch would continue to exist. They are dedicated Staff are the first point of to supporting Veterans from both Sub-Branches and local contact for any member or community. Bentleigh-Cheltenham RSL are active in the community visitor enjoying the facilities and encourage a space for social inclusion amongst of a licensed RSL Sub-Branch, their members and have recently introduced a full-time Guest Services Ambassador. Bentleigh-Cheltenham RSL so it is important that front of offer a range of programs from a Day Club for members, which includes bus trips, guest speakers and concerts to house staff are friendly and computer classes, which offer a much-needed service to approachable so that people of the extended community. “Bentleigh-Cheltenham RSL are privileged and grateful all ages feel welcome. All Sub- to have received the prestigious award of Sub Branch of the Year 2017. We would like to acknowledge our Branches throughout Victoria wonderful Volunteers, Members and staff for their uphold this value. The Network dedication to the Sub Branch. It takes a strong team effort to achieve acknowledgment for the work that they do. played a key role in economic Congratulations Team.” Glenn Sanders, General Manager, and jobs growth again in 2017, Bentleigh-Cheltenham RSL. When a General Manager can encompass these values to making hundreds of jobs deliver results in all aspects their RSL, they stand out. Leigh Proud, General Manager at Longbeach RSL and recipient of available in the hospitality the 2017 Sub-Branch Manager of the Year award recognizes the effects a supportive team can have on the working industry. environment. At the 2017 RSL Victoria Licensed Sub-Branches Hall of To be awarded 2017 Manager of the Fame Gala Awards night, the annual Sub-Branch of the Year and Sub-Branch Manager of the Year is also awarded. Year was an incredible feeling for Staff and volunteers are nominated to receive Recognition not only myself but the whole team. and Achievement Awards, which is a wonderful way to acknowledge excellence within the Network. I’m only one guy with a team behind me Bentleigh-Cheltenham RSL are a family that live and that supports the vision and helps breathe the RSL ethos. Bentleigh RSL amalgamated with me make it real. Cheltenham-Moorabbin RSL in 2015 to ensure that the Leigh Proud | General Manager, Longbeach RSL

2,200+ employees state wide

$68M+ in Sub-Branch Manager of the Year, Sub-Branch of the Year 2017, Bentleigh RSL employee wages Leigh Proud, Longbeach RSL

14. Community Benefits Report 2017 The Future

Contemporary Veterans Strategic Planning The team at RSL Victoria and our Sub-Branches have The delivery of commercial hospitality operations in a worked tirelessly since the official launch of RSL Active in very competitive market sector sees our large network May 2017. The program was launched following a successful of licensed RSL Sub-Branches constantly reviewing pilot program conducted by Geelong RSL and seed their operations to remain both financially viable and funding by the Victorian Government. competitive. In order to meet those operational challenges a large number of our Licensed Sub-Branches undertake A range of adaptive sports, outdoor activities and transition strategic planning workshops with the assistance of a related events form the cornerstone of the programme that suitably qualified consultant. The development of a well- is designed to mitigate social isolation, build peer to peer constructed strategic plan provides the Sub-Branch with contemporary Veteran connections and assist in Veteran a document that will define its medium to long term transition to civilian life. objectives and identify strategies to achieve those goals. This initiative is linked to also encouraging a larger number This road map for the future should be regularly reviewed of younger Veterans and their families to get involved as and revised to ensure that the Sub-Branch Committee and members, and over time working on our Committees and management are clear in their thinking and work with all as volunteers more broadly. The succession planning for stakeholders to achieve those outcomes. Sub-Branch Committees and fresh ideas and energy for our volunteer effort is critical in continuing the vital work of the RSL and ensuring we stay ready and relevant to meet the needs of each successive veteran generation and the local communities where we have a positive presence. In late 2017 a broad Term of References was approved by State Executive to guide a holistic review into how we can best support the Victorian Veteran Community, in a collaborative way with our stakeholders and partners in the 2020 – 2030 period. The results of this strategic review will be endorsed and shaped into a plan for action in 2018 but many of the initiatives of 2017 will provide a strong foundation for this important work over the next decade and beyond.

RSL Active Trekking Prudent Financial Management The Victorian RSL Sub-Branches carry significant responsibility to ensure that they perform the work of the League, whilst remaining compliant with a range of regulators that govern its activities. These regulators include Consumer Affairs Victoria, the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation, the Australian Taxation Office and the Australian Charities and Not-for-profit Commission. Compliance with these authorities requires the committee and management of the Sub-Branches to operate under strict corporate governance standards and to exercise the utmost prudential financial management. Sub-Branch committees and management undertake regular corporate governance training to develop the necessary skills to ensure governance standards are maintained. RSL Active Wheelchair Basketball

Community Benefits Report 2017 15. RSL Sub-Branches Across Victoria (By Local Government Area)

The following list of Sub-Branches is ordered by Local 1 Ballarat RSL Government Area. Licensed Sub-Branches are highlighted Buninyong RSL in bold, and licensed Sub-Branches with gaming are Sebastopol RSL

bold and underlined. 2 Bendigo District RSL Elmore RSL Heathcote RSL Kangaroo Flat RSL

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

4 Clunes RSL Creswick-Smeaton RSL Daylesford RSL

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

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

7 Broadford RSL Kilmore-Wallan RSL Seymour RSL

8 Bacchus Marsh RSL Ballan RSL

9 Castlemaine RSL Maldon RSL

10 Inverloch RSL Phillip Island RSL Wonthaggi RSL

11 Moe RSL Morwell RSL Traralgon RSL Yallourn-Newborough RSL

16. Community Benefits Report 2017 12 21 36 Drouin RSL Wodonga RSL Cohuna-Leitchville RSL Longwarry RSL Kerang & District RSL Trafalgar-Thorpdale RSL 22 Koondrook RSL Warragul RSL Benalla RSL 37 13 Shire of East 23 Warrnambool RSL Bairnsdale RSL Wangaratta RSL Cann River RSL 38 Corangamite Shire Ensay-Swifts Creek RSL 24 Camperdown RSL Lakes Entrance RSL Beechworth RSL Derrinallum RSL Mallacoota RSL Kiewa RSL Terang RSL Metung RSL Rutherglen RSL Omeo RSL 39 Pyrenees Shire Orbost RSL 25 Avoca RSL Mansfield RSL Paynesville RSL Ripon-Beaufort RSL Woods Point RSL 14 40 Briagolong RSL 26 Ararat RSL Alexandra RSL Heyfield RSL Lake Bolac RSL Eildon RSL Loch Sport RSL Willaura RSL Marysville RSL Maffra RSL Thornton RSL Rosedale RSL 41 Yea-Kinglake RSL Casterton RSL Sale RSL Heywood RSL Stratford RSL 27 Portland RSL Yarram RSL Corryong RSL 42 15 28 Macarthur RSL Fish Creek RSL Queenscliff-Point Lonsdale RSL Mortlake RSL Foster RSL Sub-Branch Inc Port Fairy RSL Korumburra RSL 29 Leongatha RSL Drysdale RSL 43 Shire of Southern Meeniyan RSL Geelong RSL Balmoral RSL Mirboo North RSL Lara RSL Cavendish RSL Norlane RSL Coleraine RSL 16 City of Greater Shepparton Ocean Grove-Barwon Heads RSL Dunkeld RSL Dookie RSL Sub-Branch Portarlington-St. Leonards RSL Hamilton RSL Murchison RSL Sub-Branch Penshurst RSL Shepparton RSL Sub-Branch 30 Colac Otway Shire Tatura RSL Sub-Branch Apollo Bay RSL 44 Colac RSL Horsham RSL 17 City of Greater Shepparton Natimuk RSL Echuca RSL 31 Girgarre RSL Inverleigh RSL Kyabram RSL Meredith RSL 45 Mathoura RSL Rokewood RSL Dimboola RSL Rochester RSL Jeparit RSL Rushworth RSL 32 Nhill RSL Anglesea RSL Stanhope RSL Lorne RSL 46 Shire of Northern Grampians Tongala RSL Torquay RSL St Arnaud RSL 18 Shire of Moira Winchelsea RSL Stawell RSL -Barooga RSL 47 Nathalia- RSL 33 Merbein RSL Edenhope RSL RSL Mildura RSL Harrow RSL RSL Ouyen RSL Kaniva RSL Yarrawonga-Mulwala RSL Red Cliffs-Irymple RSL Langkoop-Apsley RSL

19 34 48 Avenel RSL Manangatang RSL Hopetoun RSL Euroa RSL Piangil RSL Minyip RSL Nagambie RSL Robinvale RSL Murtoa RSL Violet Town RSL Swan Hill RSL Patchewollock RSL Woorinen RSL Rupanyup RSL 20 Warracknabeal RSL Bright RSL 35 Mount Beauty RSL Birchip RSL 49 Myrtleford RSL Charlton RSL Greensborough RSL Donald RSL Ivanhoe RSL Sea Lake RSL Montmorency-Eltham RSL Wycheproof RSL

Community Benefits Report 2017 17. Watsonia RSL 64 76 West Heidelberg RSL Croydon RSL Bunyip RSL Ringwood RSL Cockatoo RSL 50 Emerald RSL Beaumaris RSL 65 City of Melbourne Gembrook RSL Hampton RSL BCOF Koo Wee Rup RSL Defence Sub-Branch Lang Lang RSL 51 Flemington-Kensington RSL Nar Nar Goon RSL Camberwell City RSL Headquarters Pakenham RSL Hawthorn RSL Interstate Transfers Upper Beaconsfield RSL Kew RSL Korea RSL North Balwyn RSL Melbourne RSL Merchant Navy RSL 52 77 Shire of Mornington Peninsula Returned and Servicewomen RSL Crib Point RSL 1st Serbian Returned Nurses RSL Sunshine RSL Dromana-Red Hill RSL Flinders RSL 66 Hastings RSL Caroline Springs RSL 53 Mornington RSL Melton RSL Berwick RSL Rosebud RSL Cranbourne RSL 67 Rye RSL Sorrento-Portsea RSL 54 Burwood RSL

Darebin RSL Clayton RSL 78 Oakleigh-Carnegie RSL Italian RSL Diamond Creek-Doreen RSL Red Shield RSL Reservoir RSL Doreen RSL Waverley RSL Hurstbridge RSL 55 Frankston RSL 68 79 Shire of Yarra Ranges Essendon RSL Seaford RSL Dandenong Ranges RSL Keilor East RSL Healesville RSL 56 69 Lilydale RSL Bentleigh RSL Monbulk RSL Coburg RSL Caulfield RSL Mount Evelyn RSL Fawkner RSL New Zealand RSL Upper Yarra RSL Glenroy RSL Upwey-Belgrave RSL Pascoe Vale RSL 57 City of Greater Dandenong Warburton RSL

Dandenong-Cranbourne RSL Yarra Glen RSL Noble Park RSL 70 Springvale RSL Hellenic RSL St Kilda RSL For a full Sub-Branch directory visit 58 Turkish www.rslvic.com.au Altona RSL Newport RSL 71 Polish RSL East Malvern RSL Spotswood-Kingsville RSL Prahran RSL Williamstown RSL Toora RSL Toorak RSL 59 City of Sunbury RSL 72 Blackburn RSL 60 Box Hill RSL INFORMATION Bentleigh RSL - Cheltenham Highett RSL 73 City of Whittlesea The information and statistics Longbeach RSL Epping RSL contained within this report have Mentone RSL Whittlesea RSL been assembled from various sources including audited financial statements 61 74 and Community Benefits Statements Balwyn RSL Werribee RSL submitted by the VCGLR. RSL Sub- Bayswater RSL Boronia RSL 75 Branches have submitted much of Richmond RSL the work they do. To the best of our 62 Tramways-East Melbourne RSL knowledge, at the time of publication, Doncaster RSL all information is a true and accurate

Templestowe RSL reflection of the RSL in Victoria. Warrandyte RSL This report includes photography by Claire Takacs, Justin Cooper and 63 Marcus Thomson. Footscray RSL Yarraville RSL

18. Community Benefits Report 2017 Thank you We would like to thank our volunteers, members and broader community for their efforts and contribution in supporting RSL Victoria in 2017. Your commitment is inspiring, and this report demonstrates the positive impact of the community on each Sub-Branch.

Looking ahead Next year, Centenary of Armistice celebrations will be underway as well as our annual Appeals and commemorative events. As always, we look forward to opportunities for community involvement because the RSL would not be who we are today without it. RSL Victoria will continue to uphold our mission to support Veterans and their families and encourage our Sub- Branches to do the same. We thank everyone involved in shaping the RSL Victoria footprint and ensuring that the RSL and the opportunities it provides have a strong presence.

TOP RIGHT Dr Robert Webster OAM, RSL Victoria State President

BOTTOM RIGHT Flag Party, Awards Gala, Hall of Fame 2017

Community Benefits Report 2017 19. RSL Victoria Community Benefits Report 2017

Returned & Services League of Australia (Victoria Branch) Inc. ANZAC House P: 03 9655 5555 4 Collins St E: [email protected] Melbourne VIC 3000 W: www.rslvic.com.au