Local RSL named best in state

THE Bendigo District RSL subbranch has been acknowledged as one of the best organisations in the state, winning the Community Club of the Year (Regional) Award at the Community Clubs Victoria’s 2022 gala event.

The award recognises the RSL’s effort to continue to support veterans and the Bendigo community during a COVID-19 affected year.

Subbranch president Peter Swandale said he’s proud of the work done by the club.

“There’s been a lot of work by many people in the subbranch,” he said. “For us to achieve this award it certainly demonstrates the work we’ve done during COVID and the challenges we’ve faced have made a difference.”

Mr Swandale said the RSL has stuck to their mission of supporting veterans throughout the pandemic.

“The commercial operation played a vital part for that in regard to the actual support,” he said.

“Volunteers are critical for us to achieve our mission, but we also had a lot of staff members assist us in their own time.

“When someone walks through the door, we want them to come back. We want them to have a good time with great meals and great service and return in a positive way.

“When they’re spending money there, all the money goes to veterans and that’s the message we try and improve, everything we do, it’s about giving back to veterans.”

CCV chief executive Andrew Lloyd said the awards give clubs a platform to “receive the recognition they deserve.”

“It’s been an honour to provide our clubs with a well-deserved moment of recognition as they continue to contribute to Australia’s thriving business community,” he said.

“As economic recovery takes place, we look forward to seeing our hardworking clubs celebrate their substantial contribution to their communities, and to look ahead to the future.”

CCV is made up of more than 1000 community organisations in Victoria.