Veterans stay connected

VETERAN’S Health Week (VHW) is taking a different form for Torquay Returned and Services League (RSL).

The DVA has announced the theme for Veteran’s Health Week will be “Social Connectedness”.

Torquay RSL president Bob Tyler said while this year’s program would be very different, the difficulties caused by COVID-19 made particularly important for the members to connect.

“Each year we arrange an expo with representatives from various organisations able to provide benefits or advice to veterans face to face.” Mr Tyler said.

“Being unable to hold our expo this year, has meant a change in direction in activities while still helping our veterans and their families to remain socially connected while taking part in VHW from their own homes.”

A qualified exercise physiologist will instead hold a series of online fitness sessions for members and their families to participate in during VHW.

Mr Tyler said these sessions were a great opportunity for members.

“We are determined that our members will benefit from activities during VHW this year from October 24 to November 1, despite obstacles placed in our way by COVID restrictions.

“Social connectedness is vital for veterans, particularly those suffering one or more mental conditions caused by their defence service.”

These sessions will be held from 10am-10:30am on Monday, October 26, Wednesday, October 28, and Friday, October 30.

All Torquay RSL members will be contacted before VHW begins to guide to provide some instructions with how they can join via Zoom.

Members needing more guidance with technology or wanting to learn more about DVH can email [email protected] or phone 0409 297 441.