4 ways RSL NSW sub-Branches are engaging the community this ANZAC Day

RSL NSW members share how their sub-Branches are organising school visits and getting families involved on ANZAC Day.

ANZAC Day is an opportunity for RSL NSW sub-Branches to commemorate veterans of all conflicts, spread word of the League’s charitable purpose and demonstrate support for the entire community – including by engaging with schools and families.

We asked four RSL NSW members how their sub-Branches plan to reach out to the wider community ahead of ANZAC Day 2023.

“Our sub-Branch facilitates a high school student-run ceremony at the Wollongong Cenotaph, and veterans also attend school assemblies in the lead-up to ANZAC Day. These activities stopped during the worst of the COVID pandemic, but we’ll be conducting both activities in 2023.” – John Sperring, President of City of Wollongong RSL sub-Branch

Try this: Visit a local memorial

Organise a tour of a local memorial or sub-Branch building for members of the wider community.

“Last year I was invited as a guest to a school assembly for their ANZAC Day service. A lot of schools reach out for someone from the sub-Branch to go and do a talk. And this year, our sub-Branch plans to involve local community groups such as the SES and Rural Fire Service.” – Berdene Oxley-Boyd, member of Griffith RSL sub-Branch and the RSL NSW Young Veterans Committee

Try this: Classroom meet-and-greet

Organise for a few sub-Branch members to visit classrooms for an in-person meet-and-greet where the students run a Q&A. Get creative with colouring sheets competition or stencil kits.

“We have a full schedule of members who are asked to speak about ANZAC Day at schools, community groups and retirement homes. It keeps the legacy alive and, more importantly, it gets our younger sub-Branch members out there and talking with the community. It also allows school kids to connect with veterans and ask them questions.” – Morrie Gallina, President of Corrimal RSL sub-Branch

Try this: Reach out to local bases

Organise a social meet-and-greet or sports event following the local march, and invite members of the local Defence base or Reserve unit as well as family members.

“Every year, we invite about 50 local schools – approximately 2,000 students and teachers – to a service at the Penrith Paceway. We organise the event, but the kids provide the MC, band and choir. Cadet units from the Army, Navy and Air Force provide the guard of honour and the catafalque party.” – Brian Cartwright, President of City of Penrith RSL sub-Branch