Contributing beyond uniform – one jar at a time

UK veteran and small business owner Mark Lang is excited to be a part of this year’s RSL Queensland Christmas hamper project with the inclusion of his family’s condiments.

“It’s an incredible honour to be involved in the Christmas hamper project,” Mark says. 

“Having RSL Queensland buy our products for the hampers allows us to give back in a tangible way.” 

Where it all began 

After nine years in the UK Armed Forces and five years in the police force, Mark and his family moved to Australia, his wife’s home country, in 2002 where they started Lang’s Gourmet.

“It began as a simple idea: making small batches in our family kitchen,” he recalls. 

“We were inspired by a love of the great local produce here in Queensland and the satisfaction that comes from creating something meaningful.  

“After my years of service in the UK, I wanted to channel that same sense of purpose and dedication into something lasting that celebrated the flavours and community spirit of our new home here in Australia. 

“Lang’s Gourmet was our way of turning that passion into reality.” 

Since those humble beginnings, the brand has now grown from Mark’s family kitchen into a nationally recognised brand where everything is proudly Australian owned and made.  

“Every product is made by hand using the best Australian ingredients,” he says.  

“We don’t compromise or take any shortcuts. Even though we’ve grown, we still operate like a family business and we’re so proud that every bottle and jar is filled with care, consistency and craftsmanship. 

“Over the years we’ve diversified into sauces, relishes, jams and dressings but we’ve never lost that personal touch or the pride we take in every batch.” 

Connection to the veteran community 

For Mark, being part of the veteran community is being part of a family.  

“We all understand commitment, sacrifice and loyalty as well as shared respect and camaraderie. Those are values that our business is built on. But more than that – it’s about standing together, looking after each other and continuing to contribute beyond our time in uniform.”  

“Veterans bring incredible strengths: reliability, problem solving abilities, teamwork and dedication. As a veteran myself, I have a deep appreciation for the qualities that service life instils, and we always look for ways to include and support those who’ve served.” 

“We have worked alongside and supported many veterans within our community over the years,” he explains. 

For their latest order with RSL Queensland, Mark says he’s honoured to be able to give veterans and their families something for the festive season.  

“It’s a privilege to be involved in a project like this that gives back to veterans and their families,” he says. 

“To know that our products will be enjoyed by veterans and their families over Christmas is something we’re deeply proud of. 

“It’s our way of saying thank you – from one veteran family to another.”