A message from the State President

RSL Queensland State President Major General Stephen Day DSC AM 

Reflecting on 2024

Care: The incarcerated veterans program and Christmas hamper initiative 

One of the initiatives closest to my heart is the incarcerated veterans program. It was launched as a pilot in 2023 and was expanded this year. We’re on track to roll out a more developed program in 2025.

Our aim is to remind incarcerated veterans, who are often at their lowest point, that they were once capable, competent members of the Australian Defence Force. They once made values-based decisions, showed discipline and had a purpose. By reconnecting them with that part of themselves, we hope to help them find a path back to a more fulfilling life and reduce their chance of re-offending.

I want to take this opportunity to acknowledge the outstanding professionalism and commitment of those who undertake this difficult, often unseen work.

Another initiative I’d like to call out is our Christmas hamper project which saw 700 hampers with gifts and food delivered to veterans and their families across Queensland, the Northern Territory and Tasmania – this is the largest number of hampers we’ve done since the initiative started in 2020. It is an incredibly meaningful project that has a significant impact not only for those who receive them, but those who contribute items, including veteran-owned businesses, and our staff who volunteer to pack them.

Commemoration: Record ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day attendance  

This year, we saw a record number of ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day services organised by RSL Sub Branches and, according to observer estimates, a record turnout for those services. In some of the most iconic locations across Queensland, the crowds were as large as they’ve ever been. It’s a powerful reminder that commemorations continue to resonate deeply with Australians. We are honoured to play such a pivotal role in stewarding these important days for our country and importantly for veterans.

Camaraderie: Membership growth and a new wellbeing centre  

On the camaraderie front, I’m heartened to see our membership numbers continue to grow. This follows on from 2023, and it’s clear that what we are doing as a team – Sub Branches, volunteers, Districts and State Branch – is resonating with the broader veteran community.

Veterans are finding value here, and that’s immensely gratifying. In addition, we opened a new RSL Queensland Veteran & Family Wellbeing Centre on the Sunshine Coast this year. This is more than just a resource centre; it’s a one-stop-shop where veterans can access the District office, RSL services, advocates, Mates4Mates and other partners.

It’s designed to be a supportive, welcoming space, where veterans can connect, access resources and feel a sense of belonging. For me, that’s what camaraderie is all about.

Looking ahead to 2025 

As we prepare for the year ahead, I wanted to call out three areas where most of my attention will be focused. 

Firstly, now that the Federal Government has responded to the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide’s final report, we are now working through the detail of their response to identify how we can inform and support the implementation of recommendations, including ensuring that the voices of veterans and their families shape the reforms that lie ahead of us.

My second focus area will be on supporting the League to help our Sub Branches and the broader community mark the 110th anniversary of ANZAC Day in April and the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII, known as Victory in the Pacific Day, in August.

Thirdly, turning to governance, my priority will be to make sure that the leadership and tone of our organisation matches the nobility of our purpose. We are in the business of providing care, commemoration and camaraderie to veterans and their families. It is imperative that this remains our focus in all that we do.

I also look forward to continuing my travels across the state, visiting more of the League through our 232-strong Sub Branch network to better understand what matters most to veterans in every corner of our state.

I extend my warmest wishes to you and your families this festive season. Have a merry Christmas and happy new year. 

Sincerely,

Major General Stephen Day DSC AM 
State President 
RSL Queensland