Torquay RSL seeks young veterans

THE Torquay RSL is reaching out to young veterans in the community, holding a free sausage sizzle at Whites Beach Playground on September 12.

Torquay RSL president Ian Gilbank said the sausage sizzle, which starts at noon, would provide an opportunity for ex-service people, their families and friends to catch up with others connected through defence service.

“We want this event to be a fun affair as we celebrate the lifestyle we all enjoy because of sacrifices made by our forebears, but equally as important, by our younger veterans who have served in conflicts over the past 20 years.

“This activity is part of Torquay RSL’s commitment to encourage young families to enjoy the friendship and benefits available through subbranch membership.”

He said that in the past few years, the Torquay RSL had attracted younger members but he wanted those reluctant to visit the RSL at the back of the Torquay Bowls Club to be aware that younger veterans were the strength of a future organisation.

“For many young veterans, the RSL conjures up visions of older veterans gathering to talk about past wars over a beer or two. Today’s Torquay RSL is nothing like that.

“We are more interested in the welfare of younger veterans and their families and we want to ensure they receive all entitlements and benefits available to them because of their service.”

Whites Beach Playground (near the intersection of Loch Ard Drive and The Esplanade) is where the last cavalrymen of the Australian Light Horse trained in Torquay where they worked their horses up and down the dunes in preparation for war.

The event also commemorates 100 years since the end of World War I.

To encourage younger veterans to join the Torquay RSL, the committee is offering extended membership to anyone who joins in the next few weeks.

According to Mr Gilbank, Torquay RSL can now accept more new members as part of its development program.

“Many locals do not realise they can be a part of the RSL, which gives them access to RSLs anywhere in Victoria and to Torquay Bowls Club and other bowls clubs throughout Australia.”

Anyone interested in joining can visit the subbranch or phone Mr Gilbank on 0417 466 229.