Giving back for connection and compassion

"I thought it was a good time in my life to give back to an organisation that has given so much to me,” Graeme says. 

First joining Maryborough RSL Sub Branch and now a member of Tiaro RSL Sub Branch, Graeme has been involved in a wide range of volunteer activities and is always ready to help wherever he’s needed. Graeme focuses his efforts on supporting welfare activities and promoting social connection through the assistance of the local Tiaro RSL Citizen Auxiliary and police service. 

“Volunteering not only helps keep local Sub Branch’s going, but it also keeps me going and it is something I really enjoy doing,” he says.  

Since joining Tiaro RSL Sub Branch, Graeme has been Secretary, President, Treasurer, Membership Officer, and now Vice President. His leadership also extends beyond the Sub Branch; he’s held the position of Wide Bay and Burnett District Vice President and currently serves as the District Deputy President. 

Graeme Davis Tiaro RSL Sub Branch Vice President and District Deputy President of Wide Bay and Burnett District and Wide Bay and Burnett District, District Secretary Sharyn Mitchell

Creating a welcoming atmosphere for veterans  

With a tight-knit membership of just 65 people at Tiaro RSL Sub Branch, Graeme offers opportunities for veterans to have regular contact with each other.  

“We hold a social day every Friday, inviting members to come out for a cup of tea and cake – it’s important that we know all of our members and they feel a part of the community,” Graeme says.   

“It gives our members a sense of mateship but also gives us a chance to check-in and see how everyone is doing.” 

Graeme extends his gratitude to the support of the Tiaro RSL Auxiliary, who work closely with the Sub Branch to raise funds and support their social activities.  

“My wife, Heather, is actually the President of our local RSL Auxiliary and they are such a great group of volunteers, helping us with a variety of endeavours,” Graeme says.  

“Whether it’s baking, providing lunch after a service or event, or helping us fundraise throughout the year for commemorative events, they help us maintain a social and active Sub Branch.  

“Having my wife by my side volunteering is also one of the reasons I have kept doing it for all these years too.”   

Graeme Davis Tiaro RSL Sub Branch Vice President and District Deputy President of Wide Bay and Burnett District, Tiaro RSL Sub Branch President Scott Wilkinson, Lillian Coyne

Strengthening community connections 

In addition to providing a regular social day for veterans, Graeme is frequently taking Sub Branch members out to shop for groceries, attend doctors’ appointments and to visit other veterans in hospital. 

“Two to three times a week, I am helping veterans and their families get to where they need to be which gives me great purpose,” Graeme says.  

“Requests and needs change on a weekly basis, but whoever needs to get somewhere and can’t drive, can just give us a call and I will assist or find someone who can.” 

Graeme also does his part to keep the town safe by volunteering with the Queensland Police Service in Tiaro and its crime prevention team. Passionate about this field of volunteering, he previously spearheaded an initiative to welcome individuals on community corrections into the Sub Branch as volunteers. 

“This initiative benefited both the veterans and volunteers involved and has built lasting relationships,” Graeme begins.  

"Since the program, there are volunteers who still call us up ahead of ANZAC Day offering their assistance, so the initiative has had a really great outcome.  

“I am externally very grateful to all our terrific volunteers and would encourage anyone in the area who is looking to give back or volunteer to join our local Sub Branch or RSL Auxiliary, we’d love to have you.” 

LEARN MORE

National Volunteer Week shines a light on the many ways volunteering brings us all together, builds community and supports vital work across Australia.

Find your local RSL Sub Branch to learn more about volunteering today.