2025 Australia Day Achievement Medallions

RSL Australia congratulates the recipients of the Australia Day Achievement Medallions and sincerely thanks them for the exceptional work that they do within the RSL community.

The Australia Day Achievement Medallion allows Commonwealth agencies to acknowledge individuals for their contribution to the nation and their outstanding performance.

This year’s recipients have gone above and beyond, providing loyal and dedicated service to their communities.

RSL Tasmania

Lorraine Ivy Parker - Lindisfarne RSL Sub-branch

For your excellent performance as the Secretary of the Returned Services League, Lindisfarne Sub-Branch, Tasmania and your Chairmanship of the Sub-­Branch's Social Club. Your voluntary devotion to your duties and your tireless dedication for over twenty years to achieve the highest standards towards the ethos of the League, its members, the veteran community, and the community of the Eastern Shore of Hobart has been in line with the finest traditions of the Lindisfarne RSL Sub-Branch, our RSL State Branch and RSL National Office.

Belinda Sommerville Hall - Scottsdale RSL Sub-branch

For excellence as the Secretary for the Scottsdale RSL-Sub Branch over the past 12 years, Your tireless dedication and support towards caring for your local veteran community and providing wellbeing support over a significant period of time, has ensured that the Sub-Branch has maintained this important function within the wider local community. This is in line with the finest traditions of the Scottsdale RSL Sub-Branch.

RSL Victoria

Robyn Pritchard - Returned & Nurses RSL Sub-branch

Robyn is a current active volunteer with the Returned & Nurses RSL Sub-Branch.  Prior to her retirement, Robyn worked for RSL Care and established the RSL’s Aged & Health Support Department. During her working life for the RSL she established a network of Aged Care Coordinators in Melbourne and Regional Victoria and provided advice and facilitated services to all Sub-Branches on Veterans’ health and lifestyle issues. Her involvement in a wide range of ESO and RSL bodies has heightened the awareness of many issues around ageing and relating health care matters and she was the initial chair of the National RSL Aged Care Forum. Robyn has made a significant difference to our ability to deliver some of the RSL’s core objectives, both in Victoria and Nationally.

Lindsay Guerin - Inverloch RSL Sub-branch

Lindsay was in the RAAF as an administrative officer for over 30 years which included various deployments, including Afghanistan in later years.
He retired to Inverloch and soon became an active member of the Inverloch RSL before becoming Secretary.  He has competently held this position for approx. 4-5 years and is also a member of the RSL Victoria State Executive and the Region 10 representative. Lindsay’s knowledge and success of applying for various local government and DVA Grants and commitment for continuous improvement to improve the Sub-Branch, plus sourcing a variety of lifestyle and social connection programs and courses, available to the members, has been invaluable.
Lindsay’s commitment to providing assistance and guidance to Veterans is tireless, he keeps RSL members informed of events and support via his weekly Newsletter, conducts local services for ANZAC and Remembrance Day and supports public relation representation of the RSL at local markets and schools. Lindsay always shares RSL news and initiatives with his colleagues through the Region 10 meetings he chairs. Lindsay is always an advocate and supporter for change and progress.

John Saunders - Clayton RSL Sub-branch

John’s commitment and service to Clayton RSL and the broader community are truly remarkable, exemplifying a dedication to veterans, their families, and the local community that spans over a decade. His contributions to the RSL, especially his role as Secretary, have made a significant impact on both the RSL Sub-Branch and the wider veteran community.
John’s contributions to Clayton RSL, the veterans’ community, and the broader public are exceptional. His unwavering commitment, selflessness, and ability to make a difference in the lives of others are qualities that set him apart as a dedicated leader and a cherished member of the community. His achievements, which span a wide range of activities, show that he is not only an advocate for veterans but also a compassionate individual who cares deeply about the welfare of others. His ongoing efforts to support and honour veterans, promote remembrance, and serve the community are truly deserving of recognition and praise.

Brent Clyne - Seaford RSL Sub-branch

Vietnam veteran, Brent Clyne, has volunteered with the Returned & Services League (RSL) in Victoria since 1994. Over the past 30 years, Brent has held many roles, including President of the Frankston RSL Sub-Branch and currently Secretary of the Seaford RSL Sub-Branch; however, his main passion has always been veteran wellbeing. Brent’s journey post-Vietnam was not an easy one, but with the help of family and his medical team, Brent was able to turn his life around. His ability to channel his own personal experiences to help other veterans has been a very successful tool. A strong veteran advocate, Brent represented veterans of the Mornington Peninsula on numerous RSL Vic and Regional Committees along with his ‘daily work’ in supporting individual veterans in Frankston, Seaford and surrounding areas. Part of Brent’s dedicated volunteering efforts include the hundreds of RSL funeral tributes he has delivered over the years. Brent’s commitment as a volunteer serving the veteran community has been and continues to be, unwavering. There are many examples of Brent putting the needs of other veterans ahead of his own.

RSL Queensland

Louise Swanborough - RSL Queensland State Branch (pictured above)

Louise Swanborough is the Manager Membership Services RSL Queensland. Louise arrived at RSL Queensland in 2021 to take over responsibility for membership management.
She found that the membership management system (MMS) needed attention. Louise was able to incorporate constant incremental changes to MMS that today is a much more efficient system, saving money and time. This collaboration has also improved the renewal of memberships process from 85% to over 90% with a smoother uptake and the highest number of members ever renewing. Two collaborative successes this year for her were the introduction of a streamlined method of membership reporting that has resulted in accurate data being available to RSL Queensland and the Districts. Previously the reports required manual intervention. As well, the implementation of a system to send text messages directly to members from within MMS is a great achievement. In 2021 training in MMS was ad hoc. Louise set up a training pilot involving Brisbane North District and her MMS staff. The pilot was successful, and the training has since been rolled out to all Districts, both face-to-face and virtual, being a valuable touch point between RSL Queensland and the Districts and Sub-Branches.
A significant achievement was bringing RSL Western Australia on board to MMS with a custom-created interface. Louise contributed by liaising closely with the RSL Western Australia staff to incorporate their unique requirements and to train them. Other improvements included setting up procedures to manage the efficient processing of RSL awards.
Over three years, Louise has made an excellent contribution to membership management and is acknowledged throughout RSL Queensland as the subject matter expert in all matters memberships, well-deserving the recognition this award brings.

Lloyd Williams - Weipa RSL Sub-Branch

Lloyd Williams has been nominated for his outstanding volunteer work as President of the Weipa Sub- Branch. Having served in this leadership role for over five years, Llyod has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication and commitment to promoting the Sub-Branch, particularly in our remote area. Despite working full-time, he continually finds time to support veterans in need, offering invaluable assistance and advocacy. His leadership has been instrumental in organising key community events, such as ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day services, ensuring that these important occasions are commemorated with the respect and dignity they deserve. His tireless efforts and selfless service to the veteran community are truly deserving of this recognition.

John Eyles - Bowen RSL Sub-Branch

John Eyles receives this recognition of his exceptional volunteer service to the ABC Club and the Bowen Sub-Branch. A dedicated member for 17 years, John is a proud Vietnam Veteran who has demonstrated unwavering commitment to his fellow veterans through numerous volunteer roles. He has served as Secretary for 5 years, President for 3 years, and Pensions/Welfare Officer for a combined total of 12 years, including his current role. In addition, he has been an active Delegate and Replacement Delegate for 6 years. Throughout these roles, John has proven himself to be a passionate and tireless advocate for veterans and their families, always ensuring that veterans—both serving and non-serving—are treated with dignity, respect, and compassion. His deep understanding of veterans' needs, combined with his genuine care, has made him a trusted and respected figure within the community.

Barbara Farren-Price - St Helen’s RSL Sub-Branch

Barbara Farren-Price has shown outstanding contributions to the St Helen’s Sub-Branch. As an active and engaged member, Barbara has played a pivotal role in raising the profile of the Sub-Branch within the local community. Through her efforts, Barabara has successfully represented the Sub-Branch at the RSL Queensland State Annual General Meeting and gained further awareness through an article on the RSL Queensland website. Her dedication to the Sub-Branch is evident in her consistent support for fellow members, active participation in meetings, and involvement in all commemorative events. Despite the small number of veterans in the St Helen’s Sub-Branch region, Barbara has effectively engaged the community, increasing both social membership and broader support for the Sub-Branch. Her tireless commitment and enthusiasm have made a significant impact, ensuring the Sub-Branch’s continued success in the community.

Graeme Davis - Tiaro RSL Sub-Branch

Graeme Davis receives this recognition due to his exceptional commitment and service to the veteran community through his longstanding dedication to the Tiaro Sub-Branch and various community organisations. A proud member of the RSL since 2000 and an army veteran, Graeme has held numerous leadership roles within Tiaro Sub-Branch, including Secretary, President, Treasurer, Membership Officer, Delegate, and now Vice President. His leadership extends beyond the Sub-Branch, as he has also served as District Vice President and currently serves as the District Deputy President of Wide Bay & Burnett District. Graeme is a passionate advocate for veterans’ welfare, dedicating his time and expertise not only to the Sub-Branch but also to the RSL Wide Bay & Burnett District Board and other community organisations, such as Men’s Sheds and Yaralla Aged Care Maryborough. His commitment to collaboration has fostered greater support networks for veterans and strengthened connections with broader community services. Notably, Graeme has spearheaded an initiative to welcome individuals on community corrections into Sub-Branch volunteer roles, resulting in sustained participation that benefits both the veterans, and the volunteers involved.

John and Naomi Enchong - Sunshine Coast & Regional District

John & Naomi Enchong receive this award for their remarkable dedication and unwavering commitment to the welfare of the veteran community. Through their exceptional service, John & Naomi have made a profound impact on the lives of many, demonstrating a deep respect for the sacrifices veterans have made and a steadfast commitment to honouring and supporting them. Their tireless efforts and compassionate approach have provided invaluable support to veterans and their families, ensuring that their needs are met, and their contributions are recognised. This award celebrates John & Naomi’s exemplary service, which has strengthened our community and uplifted countless individuals. Their work truly embodies the spirit of service and dedication, making them deserving of this special recognition.

Kenneth Roma - Kedron-Wavell RSL Sub-branch

Kenneth Roma has been a member of RSL for 22 years. Ken has been his Sub-Branch President since 2017. Ken served in the Army for 23 years. Ken has a high level of engagement with schools within his District, especially around the major Commemorations to inform, educate and commemorate with school students. Under Ken’s leadership, Kedron-Wavell has established strong relationships with five high schools and actively liaises with these schools to encourage engagement with the RSL so that students may learn about the Defence Force and key commemorations including Battle for Australia Commemoration Service, as well as facilitating school learning excursions to Canberra for ANZAC Day, and excursions to Amberley Base, Enoggera Base. Ken either speaks or organises speakers to attend Aged Care facilities in his District, not only to commemorate key anniversaries but also to engage actively with the elderly in his community. Ken goes out of his way to assist RSL Brisbane North District & RSL Queensland with for example, supporting the RSL Active Wheelchair AFL by providing vehicles and drivers and meals for the visiting participants from Victoria.

Judy Alterator - RSL Queensland South Eastern District

Judy Alterator has been nominated for her exemplary service and enduring commitment to RSL Queensland South Eastern District. Serving as Company Secretary and Vice President for nearly six years, Judy has demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication. With over 15 years of active involvement in the RSL, Judy has shown unwavering support and dedication to veterans and the broader community. Her consistent contributions have set a high standard and making a significant impact on the lives of those she serves.

Christopher Silvester - Nerang and Mudgeeraba-Robina RSL Sub-Branches

Christopher Silvester was nominated for his outstanding dedication as a Wellbeing Advocate over the past four years with the Nerang and Mudgeeraba-Robina RSL Sub-Branches. His selfless commitment to supporting veterans and their families reflects a deep passion for improving the lives of those he serves. Christopher consistently goes above and beyond in guiding veterans through challenging systems, advocating for their rights, and ensuring access to essential mental health services and financial assistance. In addition to his direct advocacy work, Christopher has taken an active role in raising community awareness about veteran welfare. He organises meaningful initiatives and events that foster camaraderie and connect veterans to support networks. Demonstrating a commitment to excellence, he continually pursues professional development to stay informed on best practices in veteran support. His impactful work makes him a deserving candidate for this recognition, and it is a privilege to honour his service.

Karron Carney - Ipswich Railway RSL Sub-Branch

Karron Carney has shown exceptional dedication and service to the Ipswich Railway RSL Sub-Branch, where she plays an invaluable role in supporting younger veterans and their families. Karron coordinates and delivers a diverse range of yearly programs, including information sessions, social outings, family-friendly activities like bowling, archery, and horse riding, and an annual Halloween event. Through these initiatives, Karron fosters a welcoming and supportive environment for veterans and their families.
Karron is a vital resource for the Sub-Branch's Information Technology training. Each year, she generously shares her expertise by conducting workshops on the use and application of Point-of-Sale technology, which enhances the Sub-Branch's efficiency during fundraising and merchandise sales. Always available to assist with IT challenges, Karron is a highly valued member who consistently contributes to the Sub- Branch's success.

Bruce Alladice - Cunnamulla RSL Sub-Branch

Bruce Alladice receives this award for his outstanding commitment and service to veterans and the Cunnamulla community. Serving as President since 2021 and District Representative since 2016, Bruce has shown remarkable dedication and leadership in supporting and honouring our veterans. Bruce has consistently organised and conducted essential commemorative services, including ANZAC Day, Remembrance Day, and other significant commemorations, ensuring that the contributions of our veterans are respectfully remembered. Through these efforts, Bruce has made a lasting impact on the Cunnamulla community and beyond.

Barry Vains OAM - RSL Central Queensland District

Barry Vains OAM has been nominated for his exceptional service and contribution to RSL Central Queensland District. His dedication, commitment, and professionalism have significantly enhanced the scope, capacity, and research of RSL Queensland’s awards process, ensuring that Central Queensland District members receive well-deserved recognition for their outstanding contributions. Barry consistently performs his duties with diligence and leadership, embodying the core values and spirit of the RSL.

Deborah Scott-Ranson - RSL Queensland State Branch

Deborah Scott-Ranson has been nominated for her outstanding contributions to the RSL Queensland Sub- Branches through her exceptional fundraising efforts. Since 2021, Deborah has single-handedly secured over $4 million in grants, playing a crucial role in funding key projects that benefit both the veterans and the wider community. Her tireless dedication to researching and identifying grant opportunities, crafting persuasive proposals, and diligently following up on applications has led to the successful funding of critical facility upgrades and memorial restorations. Deborah’s unwavering commitment and countless hours of work have directly impacted the Sub-Branches, ensuring that essential projects are completed and that veterans continue to receive the support they deserve. Her remarkable efforts reflect a deep passion for her community and the welfare of veterans, making her a truly deserving candidate for recognition.

Ian Gray - South Eastern District

Ian Gray has been nominated for his exceptional volunteer work and enduring commitment to the community. For over 30 years, Ian has been a steadfast pillar in promoting the health and wellbeing of veterans, consistently advocating for their needs, and providing invaluable support. His dedication extends beyond the veteran community, as he plays a key role in educating the next generation about the ANZAC spirit. Through his active involvement with local schools and the Australian Cadet Forces, Ian has instilled a deep understanding and respect for our history and the sacrifices made by servicemen and women. His contributions have had a lasting impact on both veterans and youth, making a meaningful difference in many lives. Ian's unwavering commitment to his community exemplifies the highest standards of service and devotion.

RSL NSW

Larry How - Albion Park RSL

Larry is a Dedicated Community volunteer. He served for 22 years in the Australian Army retiring as a WO2. He has been an RSL member for over 20 years and is in his 3rd year as President along with a further 2 years as Vice President.  Larry is our MC for all our commemorative services having led the District's Purple Poppy Day and MEAO Service this year.

Christine Rose Dartnell - Barham and District 

Christine has been Secretary Treasurer of the Sub-branch for the past nine years and has been the face of the sub-Branch in the community. She has also been Secretary Treasurer of the Riverina District Council for the past eight years and has tirelessly supported the sub-branches in the District.

Hugh John Quinn - Bexley RSL sub-Branch

Hugh is currently the President of Bexley RSL sub-Branch and has held this role since our Annual General Meeting in 2019. Hugh has taken on the role of visiting various local schools as an RSL representative for ANZAC Day Commemoration services and End-of Year Presentations. He has taken time to speak directly with students about some his service. Hugh has provided RSL Eulogies at several sub-Branch service members funerals and the families have been grateful for his involvement.

David Blackman - Blacktown RSL sub-Branch

David Blackman is a dedicated RSL volunteer who epitomizes the spirit of service and community through his tireless volunteer work at the Blacktown RSL sub-Branch. Five days a week, David can be found passionately engaging with fellow veterans, offering support and camaraderie while also managing the local museum, where he shares the rich history of those who have served. His commitment to preserving and honouring the sacrifices of his comrades shines through in his creation of veteran-themed paintings and memorials, each piece a heartfelt tribute to those who have served.

Christopher Colvin - City of Orange RSL Sub-Branch

Mr Colvin has over the past 10 years in the City of Orange RSL Sub-Branch has attempted to engage younger veterans, improved the functioning of the Sub-Branch community and wider community of Orange for support services.  He has also assisted with establishing a Veterans Mental Health Support Group. He has led a small team and updated the sub-Branch operations and has had hands on commitment in organising services such as ANZAC Day, Remembrance Day and other memorial services throughout the year.

Norman Ernest Reynolds - Forestville RSL Sub-Branch

Norm Reynolds attends all member funerals where possible as the sub-Branch Assistant Funerals Officer.  He undertakes monthly maintenance of our Cenotaph at Forestville RSL Club especially to ensure that an ageing fountain continues to operate successfully; and he willingly represents our sub-Branch at local community commemorative services when sub-Branch Executive Committee members are attending our own sub-Branch services.

Bruce Robert Horwood - Gilgandra

Bruce conducts Ceremony and Rituals for funerals of Veterans, ANZAC Day, Remembrance Day, and special remembrance services.  He attends schools for their services and special days, liaises with the Gilgandra Shire, attends Western District meetings and is always available to support our Veterans.

Warren James Crotty - Maroubra

Mr Crotty's committee roles include Welfare Office, Membership Excursion Officer, and District School Liaison Officer.  His endeavours on behalf of the committee are varied and vast.   He has assisted the sub-Branch in the redesign and refurbishment concept for Paddington cenotaph, surrounds and plaques and designed the new audio system for the cenotaph.

Darryl James Brady - Moree RSL sub-Branch

Darryl organizes a very successful fund-raising event for the sub-Branch and raises much needed funds for the sub-Branch. During the months of April and November,  he sells RSL Badges at a coffee shop starting every day at 6am.   He holds the executive position as Treasurer at our sub-Branch. 

Terrence James Farley - Paddington Woollahra

We recommend Terrence Farley for providing leadership and courage to be the first take up various initiatives to promote veteran well-being programs which aided in building RSL sub-Branch membership with current serving and younger demographics. He volunteers numerous hours selflessly to engage with the local community, schools, and cadet units to actively involve youth in commemorations and supporting military history education.  

Neil Andrew Barrett - Sussex Inlet 

Neil Barrett has held the position of sub-Branch President since 2016 and during this time has also led the development of our veteran welfare and wellbeing program. He has taken a number of initiatives in his capacity as Welfare Officer for the sub-Branch, particularly in outreach to veterans who are isolated and vulnerable, and visits to those in hospital. He has instituted a regular monthly 'newspaper run' to check on veterans and their family’s wellbeing, and to encourage social connections and links to veteran services.

Darcy Elbourne - Taree

Darcy has been a committed member of the Taree RSL sub-Branch for many years and has served in executive positions on the committee including President twice and Vice President.   He oversaw the refurbishment and upgrade of the Memorabilia Cabinet in Club Taree which has received high praise from club members, sub-Branch members and visiting dignitaries alike. 

Leigh Warren - Wangi Wangi

Leigh Warren goes above and beyond what is required as a Volunteer and member of RSL NSW.   Leigh Warren is instrumental in ensuring that the sub-Branch continues to move forward. Leigh Warren organises and participates in all Commemorations including liaison with 3 public schools, Department of Defence, Police & Emergency Services, and the Council including grant applications - Leigh Warren is the primary point of contact.   Leigh also designs and prints the Commemoration Booklets.

Arthur William Ball - Balgowlah-Clontarf-Seaforth

Arthur has provided loyal, unselfish service to the sub-Branch and RSL NSW for more than 16 years. Over these 16 years he has supported and assisted Veterans and their families.  He joined the sub-Branch in 2008 and over the years has provided support to the sub-Branch by assisting in the running of wellbeing activities and sub-Branch library. In 2016 he joined the Management Committee and in 2018 he became Vice President of the sub-Branch.   Arthur is well deserving of formal recognition for his efforts supporting the Veteran community on the Northern Beaches.

Dennis Moran - Quirindi

We would like to recommend Dennis for this award for his service to the sub-Branch as a long time Treasurer.   He is involved with the over 60s Cricket Association and the Quirindi Tennis Club Treasurer and is the local groundsman.

RSL SA/NT

Margaret Fraser - Salisbury RSL Sub-branch

Margaret has been the backbone of the Salisbury RSL during the difficult time of Rob’s illness. The many hours she has been the go-to person, while supporting Michele and the members, always ready to come in and be in the RSL whether there was a need to cover the office or the bar.

Rosemary Etherton - Salisbury RSL Sub-branch

Rosie is on the committee and has been a strong support to Margaret, and the club. Rosie along with Wayne come in and do all the tasks covered by our volunteers who are not attending the club anymore. From emptying bins to washing floors and helping run events Rosie is always there.

Graham Reynolds - Salisbury RSL Sub-branch

Graham as Vice President and in the recent months acting President, has been a strong support for all members who have found the past few months difficult. Graham has also been in charge of our commemorative events and has done an amazing job, with every event efficiently and professionally run.

Wayne Etherton - Salisbury RSL Sub-branch

Wayne has been a very strong volunteer. Wayne has come in and covered some of the jobs done by our regular volunteer who is now not able to attend. Wayne is not on the committee but has been a strong supporter of the club during this time.

Diana Lynne Forth - Magill RSL Sub-Branch
In recognition of Diana’s ongoing volunteer commitment with exceptional and exemplary continuous service as the Sub-Branch Cleaner from 2006 - Current and Bar Manager from 2018 - Current at the MAGILL RSL Sub-Branch. Your professional, friendly, and can-do attitude and meticulous attention to detail is a credit to you and exemplifies the values of the Returned and Services League.

John Neil Wright - Macclesfield RSL Sub-Branch

For much of the last decade since joining the Sub-Branch in 2014, Neil has been working in the background helping to maintain the Anzac Memorial Gardens. He has devoted many hundreds of hours – most of it unseen to the members and the public. And now approaching 90 years of age, this tasking is even more remarkable. His contribution to the maintenance of this garden, probably the most visited community town attraction, has been tireless and provided the local population with an outstanding example of selfless contribution to the betterment of the community.

Natalie Merle Lemar - Macclesfield RSL Sub-Branch

For over 10 years since joining the Sub-Branch, Nat has been working in the background, helping with grant applications and more recently compiling data for a book to be titled “Macclesfield – a District of Service”. It will detail all the local men and women who have answered the call to serve in uniform since the mid 1850’s. The original estimate of 250 has now grown to over 750 names. Over the last 3 years, Nat has spent over four thousand hours devoted to the research of this Project, with many thousands more expected before the end. She has now also begun to help the Headstone Project SA and the Virtual War Memorial, as the data gained is mutually useful to these other groups.
Nat is currently in her second year as Sub-Branch Secretary, having been previously Secretary of the Strathalbyn Netball Club, Macclesfield Netball and Tennis Clubs, as well as historian, grants officer and volunteer to those and several other clubs in Macclesfield.

Bev & Clyde Slack - Macclesfield RSL Sub-Branch

Since both joining the Macclesfield Sub-Branch in October 2002 both Bev and Clyde have contributed an enormous amount of time and effort to the Social side of the Sub-Branch. The two of them have become well known and respective leaders of the Sub-Branch Social and Organisational side of the business and are the go-to persons before any finalisation of planning for Social Events are concluded. Since their involvement, membership of our Sub-Branch has increased by over 400% as the Sub-Branch strives to offer its existing membership within our Charter meaningful activities and to further entice those potential local members into the RSL. Bev’s contribution to this effort has been pivotal.
In 2014, Bev was awarded a Certificate of Appreciation by the RSL and was Awarded Affiliate of the year in 2016. In 2022, Bev was awarded the 2022 District Council of Mount Barker Local Citizen of the Year. In 2023 Bev was awarded Life Affiliate Membership of the League. Bev has been involved in the Macclesfield Community Association for many years, (she is the one who organises the catering and is responsible for the ANF being lowered when residents pass away!). She has also been involved with Macclesfield Primary School, Anglican Church of Macclesfield, Macclesfield Cricket Club, and Macclesfield Pre School. Clyde was elected Treasurer two years after joining in 2004, a position he has held since (21 years). Clyde has instigated many of the fund-raising activities since joining, including being the Bar Manager. In recent years, he has also been a prominent member of the Anzac Memorial Gardens Team. Mr Slack has featured on Local Government advertising, in which the role of the RSL and in particular the Macclesfield Sub-Branch was detailed. Mr Slack is involved in many of the Community Organisations around the township of Macclesfield, including the local Anglican Church (acting as Cemetery Curator), Macclesfield Community Association, Macclesfield Cricket, plus in the past the Hills Walking Club.

Marlene Curyer (86) and Margaret Peterson (93) - West Croydon Kilkenny RSL Sub-Branch

Marlene and Margaret have been selling raffle tickets every Friday night for the last 27 years! They are both very proud of their age and are more than happy for anyone to know just how old they are, and how long they have been involved. Every Friday night, they arrive at 1700, sell tickets at the door until 1830, when they move to the middle of the hall, spin the wheel, (which is labelled “M & M’s” Wheel), greet the winners with beaming smiles, write their names and winning numbers on the white board, and present them with their prize, only to come back next week to do it all again. These two ladies are indefatigable. They have served as committee members, and, while it existed, the Ladies Auxiliary. They were both very involved with the Legacy Widows group who met at our Sub-Branch for many years until 2021, when COVID and the advancing years and declining numbers forced them to disband.

RSL WA

John William Rolfe - North Beach RSL Sub-branch

John Rolfe is a passionate advocate for veterans in Western Australia and has been a very successful Sub- Branch President for years.  He is a mentor, a hard worker and has a can-do attitude. After recently only stepping down as President of North Beach, he volunteered to take on other senior roles at RSLWA including positions on WAVAC, the State Tribunal and the Constitution Committee. He has been a valuable member of WAVAC and as Vice Chair has seamlessly stepped in to represent the state on NVAC when required.
During John's 6 years as President of the North Beach RSL Sub-Branch he was voted in by its members unopposed in 2018 and again in 2021. John increased its membership and introduced the Tour of Duty for its members which improved comradery and mateship. This was a great initiative.
When John was President, the Sub-Branch was awarded the Newdegate Cup for best overall Sub-Branch in the State from 2019 - 2021 and again in 2023. John is to be commended for his outstanding service and commitment to RSLWA and his fellow veterans.

Anne Stedman - Brookton RSL Sub-branch

Anne Stedman has a long family association with the Brookton Sub-branch.  Both her father, Jack Marchesi and her mother, Emily Marchesi, were heavily involved with the Sub-branch, with Jack also being Country Vice-President.  Anne has many memories of the 'old days when dinner-dances were held at our rooms.
When the previous committee nearly folded in 2013, we put out the call out for help - and Anne joined as an affiliate member, along with her husband Rob, one of our service members.
After some early teething problems with the new committee, we secured a service member as President but had a vacancy for the Vice-President position.  Anne was approached and took on the role on condition that no service member was available. Anne has held that position since.

Robert Bruce Sheppard - RSL WA State Branch

Bob Sheppard has worked tirelessly for the veteran community. No task is too big and his dogged support in ensuring a satisfactory outcome for the veteran has gained him a reputation as a battler for veterans and their families regardless of their location and background.