10 moments to illustrate 100 years – Part 1

Over the past century, RSL Queensland is proud to have documented the people, programs and events that have affected the lives of veterans and their families through our member magazine. Even as the magazine has evolved from The Queensland Digger to Vigilance and now to Queensland RSL News, its purpose has remained steadfast: to provide the veteran community with stories and information to keep them engaged, connected and feeling valued.

The numbers speak for themselves. Over the course of 100 years, RSL Queensland’s member magazine has published thousands of veteran stories, community updates, support program editorials and Sub Branch profiles.

Today, the magazine is distributed to more than 30,000 people in its hard copy form, and thousands more digitally. The magazine has also been recognised as an important part of Queensland’s memory, with the State Library of Queensland digitising most of the collection for public access.

With so much time passed and history documented, it’s difficult to narrow down the magazine’s legacy into a few highlights. However, in this two-part article, we look back on 10 significant moments documented throughout the publication’s history to illustrate the impact and reach of the magazine over the decades. 

These moments reflect our community’s triumphs and challenges, their camaraderie and resilience, and anniversaries in both their firsts and hundredths. 

Moment 1: The evolution of Anzac Square (1930-2019) 

The significance of memorial sites has long been a feature of the RSL Queensland member magazine. In particular, Anzac Square and the Shrine of Remembrance have been extensively documented with stories including the site’s opening, refurbishment and expansion over the decades. 

ANZAC Square was officially opened on Armistice Day (now Remembrance Day) in November 1930 as a memorial to the service and sacrifice of Queenslanders in World War I (WWI). The minutes published in the July 1930 edition of The Queensland Digger reveal the RSL’s conversation around its impending opening, including the organisation of the Armistice Day ceremony at the site, who would be responsible for the arrangements, and sites and specifications for memorial boards at the site.

When the first ANZAC Day was held at the site the next year, The Queensland Digger reported the following in an article titled ‘Anzac Day in Brisbane: A Memorable Record’:

"At 11 o’clock, the main church services were held and without exception, all churches were packed to the doors and overflowing. Betokening increased enthusiasm, a larger roll up of men occurred in the afternoon than on any occasion previously. Anzac Square itself was packed.” (May 1931 edition of The Queensland Digger, page 5)

Since 1930, there have been several additions and restorations made to Anzac Square, including the installation of new statues and memorials.

In the 1990s alone, there were several announcements including the planting of a bottle tree in the Square (September 1990 edition), new memorials for those who died in WWII and the South West Pacific Campaign (August 1992 edition), the unveiling of the plaque honouring the 2/2 Tank Attack Regiment Royal Australian Artillery 7th Division AIF (November 1992 edition), the Torres Force Memorial Plaque ceremony (November 1993 edition), the Hall of Memories’ commemoration of merchant seamen killed during WWI and WWII (May 1994 edition), the 106 Aust CCS AIF plaque (February 1997 edition), the HMAS Adelaide plaque (November 1997 edition), the installation of the site’s ‘Touch Tell’ system (February 1998 edition), and the unveiling of the 31/51 AUST INF BN (AIF) memorial plaque (November 1998 edition).  

A story from the May 1939 edition about placing wreaths at the Eternal Flame at Anzac Square. 

More recently, in 2013, the Anzac Square restoration project commenced, with a majority of the works completed between ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day 2018. Queensland RSL News published rendered images of the planned works and quotes from then Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk. 

“As we enter the last year of the 2014-2018 ANZAC Centenary, it is fitting that we undertake the final phase of the restoration and enhancement of our pre-eminent memorial to our servicemen and women. We want our state’s living memorial, ANZAC Square, with the Shrine of Remembrance at its heart, to stand proud for another 100 years.” (The Hon. Annastacia Palaszczuk MP, Edition 1, 2018 of Queensland RSL News, page 18)

Just one year later in Edition 4, 2019, the magazine published news of the refurbished Anzac Square Memorial Galleries opening. The article featured interviews with staff from the State Library of Queensland as well as descriptions of each section of the Galleries, including the exhibits, technologies and structural elements of the refurbishment. 

Photos from the newly re-opened ANZAC Square Memorial Galleries from Edition 4, 2019 of Queensland RSL News, page 85

Moment 2: The start and end of World War II (1939-1945) 

Article by H.F.E. predicting the next war from the August 1925 edition of The Queensland Digger, page 5. 

The Queensland Digger was first officially published in April 1925, not even seven years after the end of WWI. Yet, despite launching during a period of relative peace in the world, the fifth edition released in August 1925 issued a stern warning in an article titled ‘The World Unrest and the Next War’. 

“The general unrest amongst many countries, the stupendous war debts yet unpaid, the continued occupation of German territory, the Morrocan [sic] trouble, the "war games" of the great American fleet in the Pacific, the upheaval in China, the Russian menace - all are leading to the greatest and most terrible of all conflicts, a world war, where "nation shall rise up against nation" the result of which would almost beggar description.” (H.F.E., August 1925 edition of The Queensland Digger, page 5). 

As history shows, H. F. E’s ominous prediction eventuated in September 1939, when Germany invaded Poland and WWII commenced. In the years following until 1945, The Queensland Digger published many stories and opinion pieces about the war. Early articles contained messages of conviction, such as the introduction to the January 1940 edition titled ‘We Must Fight for Right against Wrong’. 

“In the year that has just passed, unmorality [sic] triumphed over morality, lies over truth, dishonesty over honesty, cruelty over kindness, dishonour over honour, and the jungle law over justice… we, of the democracies, should (if we value our heritage of rights and liberty) take stringent measures to crush this evil thing in its incipiency.” (January 1940 edition of The Queensland Digger, page 1) 

As the war progressed, The Queensland Digger published pieces that offered insight into the historical and current events, issues and politics influencing the trajectory of WWII in real time. For example, the pictured articles below discuss the lead-up to WWII since 1914, as well as the Allies’ war effort.

The bombing of Darwin in February 1942 later escalated anxiety in Queensland about possible future threats from the Japanese, as per the below quote. 

Article explaining the events that led to WWII in the January 1940 edition of The Queensland Digger

“Who would have thought, way back in September 1940, when the unconquerable spirit of the English people defeated the German air blitz in England, that 18 months later, Australia would be facing the prospect of a similar ordeal from the Japanese? It is an unpleasant prospect that even the most complacent Australians have come to expect. We must be prepared for bombing in Queensland, and we must gird up our loins to meet it.” (April 1942 edition of The Queensland Digger, page 1)

During the war years, the magazine often carried the heartbreaking duty of publishing the names and photographs of those who had lost their lives or been taken prisoner. In August 1942, under the heading ‘Salute the Brave!’, a page framed by 30 young faces served as a sobering reminder of the human cost of war. 

“One of the saddest sights we who stay at home see these days is the little photographs of young men in uniform under the simple words, “Honour Roll!” And these Australian lads went out hopefully and eagerly to learn to fly and handle aeroplanes, to sail and fight ships, and to master complicated instruments of war. Whatever they did, they went in the joyous Spirit of Youth like knights in search of the grail or some high adventure.” (August 1942 edition of The Queensland Digger, page 11) 

Perhaps the most triumphant coverage of the WWII period was reported in the December 1945 edition, with the leading title ‘They’ll be Home for Xmas’ on the cover, and stories such as ‘Toowoomba Welcome Home’, ‘Perth Welcome’ and ‘Welcome Home Plans for Inglewood Soldiers’ contained within. The edition urged readers to strengthen the League during the post-war period, while also honouring the fallen in both World Wars on Remembrance Day, then known as Armistice Day. 

“For the first time in six years we can wish members of our League a peaceful Christmas.” (December 1945 edition of The Queensland Digger, page 1)  

Left: The cover of the December 1945 edition of The Queensland Digger. Right: Page 14 of the December 1945 edition of The Queensland Digger, featuring homecoming articles for Toowoomba and Inglewood.

Moment 3: The Korean War (1950-1953) 

An article in the Edition 8, 1950 of The Queensland Digger about the ground troops to be sent to serve in Korea. 

Australian involvement in the Korean War started in June 1950, shortly after the North invaded the South. The first mention of the conflict was published in 1950 Edition 8 of The Queensland Digger. An article titled ‘Australian Troops For Korea: Volunteer Force to be Sent’ states the unfolding situation clearly. 

“Australia is to send ground troops to Korea in response to the United Nations’ appeal. This dramatic announcement was made by the Acting Prime Minister (Mr. Fadden) in Brisbane on Wednesday evening, July 26… First volunteers are likely to be drawn from the British Commonwealth Occupation Force in Japan” (Edition 8, 1950 of The Queensland Digger, page 19). 

The RSL took a strong supportive stance on the war, expressing its appreciation to the serving troops and keeping the war alive in the public’s conscience through The Queensland Digger. One article introducing the November 1950 edition of the magazine stated that the RSL had proposed to the Prime Minister that all nations within the UN contribute to the cost of pursuing the Korean War, as only less than a dozen of the 53 member nations had sent fighting forces to the region.  

“[T]he proposal… would assure that in the event of other encroachments by the Communists – and others seem imminent – the brunt of pursuing a war for the future security of Democracy, would not be left to a few nations.” (Edition 11, 1950 of The Queensland Digger, page 1) 

Throughout the war, The Queensland Digger published articles about the troops and events of the conflict. Casualties, awards and updates were regularly reported and well wishes for the troops were shared. 

For example, one article in the July 1953 edition stated that the men received less kudos for their enlistment to Korea compared to WWII, “and the League should show it appreciated their splendid service to the country”, thus recording its appreciation of the serving Forces and ensuring provisions were made for appropriate homecomings. In the next edition, the signing of the Korean truce was reported. 

An article in Edition 9, 1953 of The Queensland Digger about signing of the Korean truce.

While the Armistice was signed in 1953, Australian troops remained in Korea on peacekeeping duties until 1957. Several mentions of Korea are made in editions leading up to this point. However, commentary about the fight against communism continued well into the 1960s and 1970s.

Moment 4: Establishing the RSL Dream Home Art Union (1955) 

Art Unions have been a part of the RSL Queensland story from almost the beginning. The first ever mention of an Art Union in The Queensland Digger can be found in its first edition, covering the draw and certification of the Anzac Art Union at the Anzac Memorial Club in Brisbane on 24 April 1925. Prizes in the draw included a gold watch, diamond ring, a Buick and a Ford. 

Article about the Dream Home Art Union from September 1955 edition of The Queensland Digger.

Decades later, RSL Queensland established their own art union to provide a continual source of fundraising for the organisation. Known as the Dream Home Art Union, The Queensland Digger reported on its origins, from launching and starting ticket sales in September 1955, to moving into its Queen Street offices in the Brisbane CBD in November 1955, to its first ever draw in June 1956. 

At the time, money was being raised to contribute to a war veteran’s home at Caboolture. However, while 80,000 tickets were available for purchase, sales did not go as anticipated. 

“Sub-Branches throughout the State disposed of 16,100. This combined Sub-Branch effort was a most useful and acceptable contribution, but it is obvious that even the maximum total sales from Sub-Branches will not be equal to the requirements of the situation.” (June 1956 edition of The Queensland Digger, page 29) 

Following a disappointing outcome from this first Art Union, the set-up was reorganised to hold ‘universal appeal’. Under the editorial heading ‘You can aid veterans’, the introduction announces details of their second Dream Home Art Union. 

“Decision to hold the State-wide Art Union was made by your representatives at Annual State Congress… By helping the Art Union – with your concerted effort it could be a sell-out in less than two months – you are giving valuable support to our very own War Veterans’ Home.” (Edition 10, 1956 of The Queensland Digger, page 1) 

Many years later, RSL Queensland would change the initiative to ‘RSL Art Union’, before rebranding again in 2024 to reconnect with its roots. The rebrand was announced in Edition 4, 2024 of Queensland RSL News. From its humble beginnings in 1955, the growth of the Dream Home Art Union was evident in this article. 

“Since our inception, we’ve grown to offer Australia’s most substantial prize home line-up. In 2024 alone, more than $50 million in prizes was awarded, with even more on the horizon for 2025. However, the Art Union’s true impact goes beyond the prizes – these lotteries have supported veterans and their families for nearly seven decades.” (Edition 4, 2024 of Queensland RSL News, page 27) 

Announcement of the Dream Home Art Union rebrand in Edition 4, 2024. 

Moment 5: The rise of Communism and the Vietnam War (1962) 

An article from the first edition of Vigilance in July 1962, likening the Communist threat to World War III. 

Australia joined the Vietnam War effort in July 1962, right around the same time that The Queensland Digger rebranded into a new magazine called Vigilance. The introduction to its first edition states that at that point in time, there was never a greater need for vigilance against the threat of Communism. 

“We are not preparing for World War III, we are actually engaged in it. The third world war is being conducted by Communists with insidious and skilful technique.” (A. J. Lee, July 1962 edition of Vigilance, page 4)

In this edition, the threat was identified as the Pathet Lao forces in Laos, and the North Vietnamese and Chinese troops on the border of South Vietnam. Pressure was building in these regions and on the Thai border as well. 

In the years following, there is surprisingly little mention of the specific conflict in Vietnam, although Vigilance regularly publishes pieces about the fight against communism more generally. This is until the August/September 1964 edition opens with a bleak view of the situation written in article titled ‘Brave Words’. 

“[T]he Asian situation has deteriorated alarmingly. South Vietnam could fall to the communists from its internal dissention, and Sukarno has increased pressure on Malaysia to the point of open war… Meanwhile, Australia’s defence forces are losing more men than are being recruited, and the authorities continue to reject 75 per cent of those who volunteer.” (August/September 1964 edition of Vigilance page 1) 

Not long afterwards, the gravity of the situation in Vietnam begins to become clearer. The release of the first casualty brings the masses of lives lost into focus, described in the June/July 1965 edition of Vigilance as grievous. However, Australia’s involvement in the war is nevertheless defended, citing “abrogation by the Reds of the Geneva agreement”. 

“From the outset far more has been involved than the defence of South Vietnam – no less than the testing of the free world’s will to resist communist aggression, just as it was resisted in West Berlin and Korea and Cuba.” (June/July 1965 edition of Vigilance, page 1)

Left: Introducing the June/July edition of Vigilance with commentary on the shocking casualties sustained in Vietnam. Right: A 1965 article promoting the eligibility of citizen military forces to volunteer in Vietnam. 

Later in 1965, the magazine begins publishing more on the Vietnam War. The August 1965 edition promotes the eligibility of volunteer Citizen Military Forces to serve in Vietnam. 

The next edition then provides an optimistic update on the conflict, describing the massive ground support from the American military contributing to a new-found “morale and fighting spirit” within the South Vietnamese forces. There is also praise for the Australian forces involved, with US media describing the Australians as an “elite battalion”. 

Publication of Vigilance concluded in July 1967. Unfortunately, Queensland RSL News did not begin publishing until December 1989, hence the end of the Vietnam War was not documented by RSL’s member magazine.