While Gracemere and District RSL Sub Branch is what is referred to as a traditional sub branch, it enjoys a symbiotic relationship with (the soon-to-be-called) Rockhampton RSL Sub Branch, a sub branch without its own “digs” so to speak, and we enjoy much camaraderie during our combined activities.
Our sub branch was chartered on 30 October, 1981, and there are still several founding members around to talk about the old days, one of them being William “John” Trenaman who was presented with his 15-year Certificate of Membership by our sub branch president, “Chip” Smith – I know the maths doesn’t add up – but John left the Gracemere District when he left the Police Force then returned several years later and resumed his membership with us. Chip had also recently presented Phil Lawrie, assistant treasurer with his 15-year Certificate. There are several other members who were not in attendance at Sunday’s meeting who will receive theirs by mail (or in person where possible).
We are a social RSL Club welcoming service members, family members and community members alike when our doors are open Wednesday, Thursday, Friday (meal nights) and Sundays from 4pm when the bar opens. Drop in some time and check it out!
This week is Veterans’ Health Week and we have a couple of activities lined up – Morning Melodies followed by lunch at Frenchville Sports Club next Monday, 16 October and Fishing Charter on the 26th – albeit that they are outside the given dates, they count as VHW activities.
We wish to reinforce the importance of the camaraderie shared with other Ex-Service Organisations (ESOs) and commemoration of significant events and dates, hence our support for the Middle East Area of Operations Dinner which will be held at Frenchville Sports Club on 21 October.
For more details please contact Brett Breadsell, secretary, Rockhampton RSL Sub Branch on 0447 728 586 no later than 15 October and all MEAO Veterans welcome to attend.
We will be attending at the local Schools to prepare the students for this year’s Remembrance Day Activity, Draw to Remember which was trialled at Gracemere State School in 2022. To date, we have been advised that St Paul’s Catholic Primary School and Stanwell State School are coming on board to create chalk murals to mark Remembrance Day in a creative way.
We look forward to witnessing these colourful creations in the week leading up to Remembrance Day, 11 November, and as it falls on a Saturday this year, hopefully draws a crowd to remember those who have served and sacrificed in all wars and conflicts.
Our service commences at 10.25am at Gracemere Cenotaph at 12 James St, and Alan Parr MG OAM will be guest speaker. Light refreshments will be available after the service.
In the week preceding Remembrance Day, our amazing volunteers will be selling merchandise at Gracemere Shoppingworld, in front of Woolworths, so we look forward to having a chat and answering any questions you may have while supporting our Stall. Please feel free to contact Ruth Harris, secretary, on 0498 826 470.
