Burleigh RSL Sub Branch serves up Christmas cheer for veterans

At the beginning of December, Burleigh RSL Sub Branch Secretary Lin Glass, along with a number of Sub Branch Board Members, give 45 care packages of Christmas cakes and fruit mince pies from a local bakery to veterans and war widows in the area.

Burleigh RSL Sub Branch President Graeme Mowbray and Secretary Lin Glass

The initiative is something the Sub Branch Board prioritises each year and Lin says she has helped with the activity since joining the Sub Branch seven years ago – knowing how important it is to connect with their members especially around Christmas.

“It is a way of keeping in contact with our older members, letting them know we are thinking of them and that they are a part of the RSL family,” Lin says. 

“They are always so grateful, but we believe it’s such an important gesture at Christmas, especially for the ones who don’t have family close by.”

More than a Christmas gift  

The Sub Branch not only takes the time to hand deliver all 45 care packages but also checks in with the recipients to see how they are doing. 

Burleigh RSL Sub Branch Board Member Dave Glass presents Don Anderson with a Christmas package

“We invite those that are well enough and close by to our annual Christmas lunch at the Sub Branch, giving them the opportunity to socialise with fellow members and be presented with their special gift,” Lin says.   

“For those who can’t join us, Board Members hand deliver their Christmas cakes and mince pies to their home or nursing home. Most of the time they just enjoy a chat with us, and it’s heartwarming to see how much the interaction and thought means to them.”

Lin says the act of gift giving and connecting around Christmas time is special for the Sub Branch, but it’s just one of the many welfare initiatives they get up to. The Gold Coast based Sub Branch stays busy connecting with their members year-round.

Lin Glass giving Valda Vaughan a Christmas package

“We have just added a new group of welfare support officers that make phone calls to our members throughout the year so they are having regular communication with us about what they might need,” Lin says.

“I think that’s what I like most about being part of the Sub Branch. It’s about enhancing the lives of veterans, whether it’s organising the Christmas gifts, assisting in times of need, or taking veterans to fun social outings. I just love giving back.”

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