Torch relay marks centenary of support

AN international torch relay by a charity supporting the families of veterans completed its Bendigo leg last Thursday.  

One hundred years ago, an Australian soldier fighting in Pozières, France, made a promise to a mate that his family would be looked after when he died. 

From that commitment, Legacy was formed. 

To mark the centenary, the Legacy Torch Relay has been taking place since 23 April, getting underway from Pozières and with a finish set for Melbourne on 13 October. 

Legacy Bendigo board member Sarnia Birch said the relay acknowledged the not-for-profit’s support of the families of lost and injured service personnel. 

“For 100 years, Legacy has been providing a service to the families of veterans who have given their lives or health in service to their country,” said Ms Birch. 

“[The relay has] been a lovely way to publicise what we do. 

“We provide a lot of addressing social isolation for widows, and they enjoy getting together and talking about their stories and the experiences they’ve had, together. 

“We also look after young families… to make sure they don’t miss out on anything, to make sure their lives are as good as they can be.” 

Torch bearers, such as Kate Wheatley, walked about 500 metres each, before handing it to the next person. 

Ms Wheatley said she works for army vehicle engineering business Thales, one of the main sponsors of the event, and has been involved with Legacy since 2016, doing things like supporting a widow. 

“I was just that sort of liaison to be able to figure out how to help her and how to get that extra help,” she said. 

“I used to visit her every week or every second week just to see how she was going, have a cup of tea with her, and have a chat.” 

Australian Defence Apparel, or ADA, supplies most of the Australian Defence Force’s clothing and also made the torch bearers’ uniforms for the relay. 

“For us it’s something that we’re incredibly proud of, we see loosely an association, and wanted to get involved,” said CEO Chris Dixon. 

Melbourne Legacy was the first, and there are now 44 across the country and one in London.