A glittering night of veteran support

On September 26, a red-carpet arrival in Gladstone welcomed an evening of fine suits and dresses, good food and even better company for veterans, their families, and the local community for the Gladstone RSL Sub Branch inaugural Veterans Charity Ball.

The event, held at the Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre, gave local veterans the opportunity to reconnect and let their hair down with the 180 attendees raising more than $30,000 for veteran welfare and wellbeing programs.

Those veteran welfare initiatives include practical assistance for veterans and their families experiencing hardship, advocacy services, wellbeing activities, social connection programs and outreach across the Gladstone region.

For Gladstone RSL Sub Branch President Ed Dahlheimer, the event was about much more than fundraising.

“The Ball not only brought together our local community, but it also gave people the opportunity to show their support for our veterans,” he says.

Gladstone RSL Sub Branch's inaugural Veterans Charity Ball. Photo credit: Nathan Pawley

Once mates, always mates

One of the biggest challenges veterans face after leaving Defence is losing their support network. The Ball gave veterans the opportunity to reconnect with old mates, form new friendships and engage with their local veteran community. At Gladstone RSL Sub Branch, they believe social connections are just as important as practical support.

“We have regular welfare mornings, advocacy services available throughout the week, and community activities, so veterans remain connected and supported,” Ed says.

The event also shone a spotlight on the families who stand alongside veterans throughout their service and beyond. Ed says recognising the sacrifices made by partners and children was an important part of the Ball's purpose.

“Military service affects the entire family, not just the person who wore the uniform,” he says.

Gladston RSL Sub Branch President Ed Dahlheimer with Brigadier Fern Thompson CSC. Photo credit: Nathan Pawley

Still answering the call

In 2025, volunteers at Gladstone RSL Sub Branch amassed over 2,300 volunteer hours, providing welfare and advocacy support to local veterans and their families in times of need.

Ed said special guest speaker, Brigadier Fern Thompson CSC, Commander of the 16th Aviation Brigade, delivered a powerful address to attendees about the impact of their support for local veterans.

“Fern’s address was a reminder that service doesn't end when the uniform comes off. Her story resonated with our guests and why we're all here: raising support for veterans and their families while fostering the connections that help people thrive after service.”

The Sub Branch hopes the inaugural Veterans Charity Ball will become a lasting tradition for veterans across the region. It aims to strengthen community understanding of veteran issues, celebrate service and sacrifice, and ensure local veterans know they are valued, supported and connected long after their military careers have ended.