RSLQ 2021 Annual Report

71 RSL Queensland Annual Report | 2021 A t RSL Queensland, we’re standing shoulder to shoulder to help veterans achieve the quality of life their service deserves. Operation Blankie on the Atherton Tablelands Malanda RSL Sub Branch, Far Northern District Veterans, carers and families in Far Northern District have been given a permanent hug through hand-made blankets, crocheted with love and care through Operation Blankie, established by members, Margaret Plant, Pauline Lawrence and Catie Shanahan of Malanda RSL Sub Branch. Over the last three years, Operation Blankie volunteers have been knitting and crocheting blankets, beanies, scarves, and mitts for veterans and their families who are experiencing medical conditions, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and who have support animals. Operation Blankie is supported by the RSL Far Northern District, Malanda RSL Sub Branch and local donations. Described as ‘blanketing the Tablelands with love,’ the personally made gifts have provided comfort, support, and warmth to those who need it during illness. Connecting through equine therapy Thuringowa RSL Sub Branch, North Queensland District It’s proven that equine therapy helps with PTSD, anxiety, and depression. So, to provide greater support for veterans as they transition to civilian Annual Highlights Standing Shoulder to Shoulder Continued on next page "Every day, outstanding, heartwarming work is done by RSL members. And yet, this work goes on unheralded." MAJOR GENERAL STEPHEN DAY DSC, AM State President, RSL Queensland STANDING SHOULDER TO SHOULDER life in the Townsville area, Thuringowa RSL Sub Branch has forged a partnership with Rupertswood Horse Club to provide equine therapy to veterans. This is just one of the connections made with local groups and organisations as the Sub Branch focuses on broadening their support to veterans. They’re also working to create a relaxed place where veterans and their families can visit and talk to like-minded people, in a friendly, welcoming, all- inclusive environment. Community celebrations for Cenotaph’s centenary Finch Hatton RSL Sub Branch, Pioneer-Fitzroy- Highlands District The Cenotaph in the township of Finch Hatton is both a centrepiece and a structure of heritage significance. It is the focus of commemorations every year. So, it was fitting that the Finch Hatton RSL Sub Branch celebrated the Cenotaph’s ongoing significance in the community with the Centenary of the Cenotaph Ceremony held on 19 November 2021 – 100 years to the day since its unveiling. The Sub Branch ensured the celebrations were an inclusive community event, with entertainment for children and a free sausage sizzle during the afternoon for the more than 200 people who attended. A primary schools art competition was held in conjunction with the celebration, as well as a dinner for invited guests following the service. Malanda RSL Sub Branch Thuringowa RSL Sub Branch