RSL Queensland opens new District Office for Townsville veterans

RSL Queensland State President, Major General Stephen Day DSC AM officially opened the District Office, which will provide support to the local ex-service community and the region’s 18 RSL Queensland Sub Branches. 

“The new RSL Queensland North Queensland District Office will provide local veterans and their families a central and clear pathway to access the care, compassion, and camaraderie they need,” RSL State President Stephen Day said.

“We are proud to mark this momentous occasion for the Townsville ex-service community and recognise how important the new office is for the delivery of critical veteran support services in the region.

“The new District Office has been developed in collaboration with the community and it will deliver services tailored to the needs of local veterans and their families.

“Service men and women may feel a profound sense of loss when they leave Defence and struggle when entering into civilian life. 

“RSL Queensland is committed to working with veterans and to ease their transition to civilian life. We are investing in research, targeted programs and proven initiatives to make this process as easy, smooth and accessible as possible,” he said.

The opening of the new office comes as data from the recent Australian Bureau of Statistics’ Census reveals that Townsville is home to the largest population of currently serving and previously served ADF members (15,408).

MAJGEN Stephen Day DSC AM and Mr Garry Player, RSL North Queensland District President

RSL North Queensland District President Garry Player said the new District Office plays a vital role in the community, not only by providing much-needed services and support, but also reconnecting veterans with their former comrades in arms.

“The Townsville District is always looking for ways to better support younger members of our Defence community, while continuing to support our older members,” Mr Player said. 

The opening event was attended by RSL Queensland representatives, District Representative, Representatives from Sub Branches within the RSL North Qld District, Veteran Services advocates, RAAF personnel and dignitaries, including Townsville City Mayor Jenny Hill, Townsville City Councillor Kurt Rehbein, and Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto MP. 

(L-R) MAJGEN Stephen Day DSC AM, Cr Jenny Hill, Mayor of Townsville, Hon Scott Stewart MP, Member for Townsville

RSL Queensland has spent more than 100 years’ working to build and foster a community where veterans can find connection, support and understanding. RSL Queensland’s mission is to provide veteran support while evolving to meet the needs of our ever-changing community.

MEDIA CONTACT

Kate McKay | RSL Queensland Senior Manager Corporate Communication and Media 

Kate.McKay@rslqld.org | 0436 012 535