Peter Thomas OAM’s dedication to veterans and community

PETER Thomas OAM, a life member of the RSL, has dedicated decades to volunteer work, providing media, advertising, and photographic services to Torquay RSL and its predecessor, Torquay & District Ex-Servicemen’s Club.

His Vietnam service as a journalist in a PR team, alongside a Sergeant photographer, was akin to a war correspondent’s role, focusing on Australian troops’ experiences.

Introduced into the Box Hill RSL by his father after Vietnam, Peter recalls, “I have been a member of the RSL ever since.”

His contributions have earned him the Order of Australia for services to the community and Barwon Health.

“Since 1957, I have served in various full-time and part-time roles in the Australian army,” Peter notes.

 

Now 85, Peter recently decided to step back from his active role at Torquay RSL, with his final contribution being to the December 2023 edition of the sub-branch newsletter.

However, his dedication continues as he remains a Service Member and a Life Member of the RSL.

“I am still a wellbeing advocate, which in the old language was a welfare officer,” he says, emphasising his ongoing commitment to veterans, their families, and war widows.

Peter’s military career, spanning from 1957 to 1990, began in the Royal Australian Corps of Signals, moving through the ranks to become a Second Lieutenant, and ultimately retiring as a Major.

His service included a significant deployment to Vietnam from 1968 to 1969 with the 1st Australian Task Force at Nui Dat.

In civilian life, Peter built a successful career in public relations and advertising, retiring from Telecom Australia as the National Director of Corporate Communications before establishing a communications consultancy.

 

He and his wife Rita, who has been a pillar of support, moved to Torquay 30 years ago, actively participating in the Torquay Lions Club and the Torquay RSL Sub-Branch.

“Without Rita’s support I wouldn’t have been able to do any of this, she has been fantastic,” Peter said.

Peter’s roles in the RSL have included President, Secretary, Committee member, and currently, Wellbeing Advocate, supporting veterans and their families. Lions Club Secretary Ken Farrow said Mr Thomas had worked tirelessly in his role at the Club. “Your contribution to the many Lions activities over the past 30 years has been confirmation of your belief in the Lions’ motto ‘We Serve.'” Mr Farrow said.

At 85, Peter’s energy remains undiminished. He is now assisting Peter McMahon at the Lion’s Club with promotional work for the Good Friday Appeal, showcasing his unwavering commitment to serving others.

For further details, visit torquaylionsclub.org.au