New leadership for Torquay RSL aims to engage younger veterans

THE Torquay RSL Sub-branch has elected Paul Barker as its new president and Darcy Dunstan as vice president, marking a new chapter for the organisation.

Barker, 41, and Dunstan, 33, bring extensive military and leadership experience to their roles.

Mr Dunstan highlighted the importance of attracting young veterans.

“We are committed to helping young veterans, especially if they have recently transitioned out of Defence,” he said.

“I found that transition difficult, as do many. But it is a journey all veterans share, so I encourage anyone who is finding it tough to reach out to the RSL.

“It can play a significant role in ensuring your well-being and connecting you to a community of men and women who understand what you have been through.”

Mr Barker shared his vision for the Torquay RSL: “To have the Torquay RSL be a welcoming venue for veterans, emergency responders, their families, and the wider community to participate in social and welfare activities.”

He said the available services for veterans included independent advocates who can assist with mental health, physical injury rehabilitation, and pension applications.

Mr Barker served for seven years in Airfield Defence with the Royal Australian Air Force and has held various civilian leadership roles post-service.

Mr Dunstan, a veteran with 11 years of experience in the Special Air Service Regiment (SAS), brings operational expertise to the leadership team.

The new leadership team aims to engage younger veterans, particularly those in their 30s, 40s, and 50s, who often feel disconnected from traditional veteran networks.

They plan to modernise outreach efforts to attract this demographic, ensuring they feel welcomed and supported within the Returned and Services League (RSL) community.

They also seek to involve the broader Torquay community in RSL activities, encouraging those with ideas to get in touch.

A key component of their vision is enhancing mental health and advocacy services tailored to the needs of younger veterans.

By improving access to these resources, Barker and Dunstan, along with Secretary Bill Westhead and the rest of the committee, aim to create a supportive environment addressing the unique challenges faced by contemporary veterans.

The Torquay RSL Sub-branch is actively recruiting new members, inviting veterans, essential service personnel, and the broader community to join.

This inclusive approach aims to create a supportive environment where police officers, firefighters, paramedics, healthcare workers, and community members can find camaraderie through outdoor activities and social gatherings.

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