Veterans program marks 10th anniversary

THE community-based veterans charity Robe to Recovery will mark its 10th Anniversary during a four-day program of events scheduled around Anzac Day 2025.

Since 2015, the not-for-profit organisation has helped more than 270 veterans and their families by providing invaluable support and respite in privately owned beach houses around Robe.

The short stays are designed to give veterans time and space to focus on their well-being, with Robe’s serene surrounds and supportive atmosphere offering the perfect environment for healing and renewal.

Carers and parents needing respite due to suicide or extreme stress are also included in the program

Co-founder Jacqui Bateman said the mini breaks were an opportunity to thank veterans for their selfless service, with community members donating accommodation, vouchers, gifts, goods, and services.

“The strong support from locals over the past decade mirrors the camaraderie and collaboration seen in military units, providing hope and healing for veterans and their families from strangers turned allies,” Jacqui said.

Opportunities to donate to the continued success of Robe to Recovery will be available throughout the Anzac Day Long Weekend, with the official program kicking off at Robe Football Club on Thursday night.

Local veterans will present commemorative jumpers to all senior players, followed by dinner and a presentation from retired Army Officer Joe Day.

On Friday, the traditional Anzac Day Dawn Service hosted by the Robe RSL Sub-Branch will mark 110 years since the Gallipoli campaign, with the march off to the memorial set to commence at 6.30am.

The following morning, the 3rd Light Horse Regiment Naracoorte Troop will greet spectators arriving at the Robe Oval clash between traditional rivals Robe and Hatherleigh.

The Troop will also feature in a pre-game ceremony before the A Grade football match, with The Ode and Last Post overseen by Lieutenant Colonel Nick Floyd, who has over 30 years’ regular service with the Royal Australian Artillery in gun regiments, instructional institutions, Army and Defence Headquarters, and has served on warlike operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.

High-profile Queensland fitness trainer Tom “Prime Train” Baulch will be a guest player during the commemorative senior football game, which will be followed by a medal presentation, dinners and live music at the club until late.

An Ambrose Golf Day on Sunday and an Anzac Biscuit Bake-off will round out the weekend program, with Robe expecting a strong influx of visitors as school holidays draw to a close.