General News
19 April, 2024
RSL calling for more members
CAMPERDOWN’S Returned and Services League (RSL) sub-branch members are calling out for new members to put their hands up – and are reminding residents veterans are not the only ones able to become members.
Rules for the RSL only stipulate applicants must be at least 18 years of age or over.
The RSL as an organisation was founded in 1916, with the purpose of ensuring any veteran in need gets help and all Australian Defence Fore (ADF) members and veterans were welcomed warmly in a local space.
Camperdown RSL sub-branch president Kevin Murray said there are three categories open for applicants to choose from, the most well-known one being service members.
“Service membership is open to anyone who has served in the Australian Defence Force—Navy, Army or Air Force,” he said.
“This person is referred to as a veteran and may be male or female, permanent or reserve force, currently serving or having formerly served, either in a war-like environment, an operational environment or a peacetime environment.
“Unlike the RSL of years ago, membership is no longer based on service overseas but, rather, service to our country either at home or abroad.
“The same criteria may be applied to veterans of the armed forces of our allies—such as Britain or USA— who may also join the RSL as service members.”
Mr Murray said the two other categories available are affiliate memberships and social memberships.
“Affiliate membership is open to anyone who is a relative of a person (living or deceased) who is or was eligible to be a service member of the RSL,” he said.
“In other words, a person related to a veteran as described above.
“The affiliate member may be any spouse, blood relative, step relative or in-law of a veteran.
“Members of our emergency services, with a minimum of six months service, may also join the RSL as affiliate members. This includes members of the State or Federal Police, the Ambulance Service or Brigade, the Fire Brigade or Fire Authority, the State Emergency Service, Bronze Medallion members of a Surf Life Saving Club, Corrections or Prison Officers, and members of the Commonwealth or allied Merchant Navy.”
The social membership is open to anyone who does not already fit into the service or affiliate membership categories.
All members, regardless of category, will work towards the objectives of the RSL, including providing for veterans and serving members, as well as community members, in need, protecting the name of the Australian Defence Force, preserving the memory and legacy of those who suffered and died for Australia, and further the interests and support for the state branch.
The RSL is a non-political and non-sectarian organisation that provides a space for social interaction and the ability to from new friendships.
Mr Murray encouraged anyone who may be interested to apply, and to have a conversation with him at the upcoming Anzac Day commemorations on Thursday, April 25, about their interest.
Application forms are available from Mr Murray, who can be contacted on 0418 568 303, or via email at kevin.murray8@bigpond.com.