RSL ANZAC of the Year AWARDS 2022
MEDIA RELEASE
The Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL) today announced the recipients of the 2022 RSL ANZAC of the Year Awards.
The RSL ANZAC of the Year Awards are made annually ‘to recognise the efforts and achievements of up to seven Australians who have given service to their fellow Australians and to the community in a positive, selfless and compassionate manner.’
The nominations for the ANZAC Awards are assessed and selected by the National RSL ANZAC Awards Committee whose members include; Chairman - Greg Melick, RSL National President; Paul Singer, Official Secretary to the Governor-General of Australia; Peter Rush, Assistant Secretary Department of Prime Minister & Cabinet; former Senator Margaret Reid and Phil Winter, RSL Australia CEO.
The 2022 recipients are:
Mr Harold (Harry) Allie BEM of NSW - in recognition of many years of dedicated leadership and commitment to the coordination of indigenous involvement in commemorative services throughout the veteran and local communities in NSW.
Mr Raymond Bell OAM of NSW - in recognition of over 75 years ongoing commitment to the Australian Air League, over 50 years voluntary service as a band marshal at the Sydney ANZAC Day March, and his long service to the Air Force Association [NSW Division).
Dr Madeline Romaniuk of QLD - in recognition of her significant contribution in the Veteran mental health area in research and development on PTS and other health conditions affecting Veterans and their families.
The RSL National President, on behalf of the League, has extended congratulations to Messrs Allie and Bell and to Dr Romaniuk.
RSL National President, Greg Melick said; "The Spirit of ANZAC represents everything that's at the heart of what it means to be an Australian. With its beginnings on the battlefields of Gallipoli, the Spirit of the ANZAC continues today in times of hardship such as cyclones, floods and bush fires when Australians come together to ease suffering, to look after one another, and to let the victims of these disasters know they are not alone. It manifests itself in many ways and it is heartening to acknowledge that most Australians still demonstrate those iconic traits of mateship, resourcefulness, courage and compassion.
“This year's Award recipients exemplify the Spirit of ANZAC in the community through their dedication and commitment to the benefit of others. They are exemplars of community service and an inspiration to all Australians.”