RSL ANZAC of the Year Awards 2025
MEDIA RELEASE
The Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL) today announced the recipients of the 2025 RSL ANZAC of the Year Awards.
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;
David Belgrove, Assistant Secretary, Department of Prime Minister & Cabinet;
Margaret Reid (former Senator);
and Phil Winter, RSL Australia CEO.
The ANZAC of the Year Awards are presented ‘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 2025 recipients are:
Mr Garry James of New South Wales in recognition of his unwavering dedication, leadership, and passion in his role as Hon Secretary of the RSL NSW, Cardiff Sub-Branch. His outstanding leadership, support for veterans, dedication to community engagement, and personal integrity exemplifies the ANZAC spirit.
Mr Dennis Oldenhove of South Australia in recognition of the incredible impact he has made to the Macclesfield RSL Sub-Branch. He has reinvigorated the RSL Sub-Branch with the RSL becoming an integral part of the Macclesfield Community. His leadership and commitment to make lasting change for both Veterans and his community exemplifies the ANZAC Sprit.
Mr David Simmons of Queensland in recognition of his visionary leadership and deep commitment to supporting veterans in need has been instrumental in establishing and sustaining vital initiatives in the Springwood RSL Sub-Branch veteran community. His passion, perseverance, and exceptional ability to bring people together for a common cause continues to make a lasting difference in the lives of those who have served our nation and exemplifies the ANZAC Spirit.
Mr Gary Penney of Queensland in recognition of his passion and dedicated focus on the welfare and wellbeing of Veterans and their families as an RSL Kawana Waters Sub-Branch President, Advocate and a mentor. He has played an instrumental role in ensuring the continued engagement of Veterans of all ages and continued dedication as an Advocate, which exemplifies the ANZAC Spirit.
“On behalf of the RSL National Board and Members of the RSL I would like to congratulate the four individuals who have been selected for ANZAC of the Year Awards,” Greg Melick said. “They are exemplars of community service and an inspiration to all Australians.”
“This year's Award recipients exemplify the Spirit of ANZAC in the community through their dedication and commitment to the benefit of others.”
