Volunteering that bonds all ages

Following his time in the Army as Combat Engineer, Kenneth says he had to retire from his civilian job earlier than expected, which inspired him to join Kedron-Wavell RSL Sub Branch and start volunteering. 

“After becoming a member, I started driving for the Sub Branch’s bus service, which runs three times a week to Greenslopes Hospital,” Kenneth says.  

“The bus is used to take veterans and their families who can’t drive but need to go to a medical appointment or visit a loved one at the hospital.”

Finding fulfilment in this role, Kenneth’s volunteering efforts with the Sub Branch flourished from there and he has since taken on various responsibilities. 

“I am now a qualified level two Wellbeing Officer, and took on the role of Sub Branch President seven years ago,” Kenneth says. 

“I just enjoy meeting new people and helping veterans navigate their current situation or past experiences – everyone has a story.”

From organising social excursions for Sub Branch members, to finding emergency accommodation for veterans and their families, Kenneth is dedicated to volunteering for his Sub Branch. In addition to all this, Kenneth also engages with local schools to help the next generation learn about military history and the importance of commemorations.  

Kedron-Wavell RSL Sub Branch President Ken Roma, front right, presents a medallion to student Sophie Morley in recognition of her participation in the liaison program. Also pictured, from left, Kedron-Wavell RSL Sub Branch Senior Vice President Greg Peake OAM, Sue Stern, Glen Dyer and Trish Whitby. 

Educating young minds about war history  

Facilitating the Sub Branch’s student liaison program, Kenneth’s assistance gives 10 students from five local high schools the opportunity to travel to Canberra for ANZAC Day and visit the Australian War Memorial and Parliament House.  

“The trip, accompanied by two Sub Branch members and two teacher chaperones, is an educational experience that allows students to learn more about veterans, ANZAC Day and how the commemoration is honoured in the country’s capital,” Kenneth explains.  

After the trip, the selected students present a report to the entire Sub Branch about their learnings and are recognised with a certificate and medallion for their participation in the program.  

“The students’ presentations are so impressive and continue to get better each year which is fantastic to see,” Kenneth says. 

“Not only are they presenting their learnings to us, but they also play a role in educating their peers at school about what they learnt from the program.”  

This initiative also includes activities throughout the year; Kenneth invites the students to attend the Sub Branch’s monthly meetings and organises excursions for them. 

“We take the students to visit RAAF Base Amberley and Gallipoli Barracks, and we also invite them to come along to our Battle for Australia Day commemoration and lay a wreath,” Kenneth says. 

Kenneth’s volunteering for school students doesn’t stop there, he coordinates Sub Branch representatives to visit 19 primary schools in the lead up to ANZAC Day to teach them about the commemoration.  

“We have implemented memorial rocks with plaques at these schools as well, which have been great for the school’s commemorative services,” Kenneth says. 

“I take great pride in the fact that our volunteering efforts can reach all ages, but it really is a combined effort. We have a generous group of volunteers here at the Sub Branch, making the volunteering that we do not only possible but impactful.” 

Ken laying a wreath at a Sub Branch commemoration.

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.