More than three decades of service: A lifetime of giving back through volunteering

Volunteering isn’t just something Helen Smith OAM does for a couple of hours a week, for her, it has been a way of life. 

As a long-standing volunteer with RSL Sub Branches in both Queensland and the Northern Territory, and the proud President of her Women’s Auxiliary for the past six years, Helen has dedicated countless hours to supporting veterans, their families, and the wider community.  

Her journey is a powerful reminder of the difference one person can make through service, compassion and unwavering dedication.

From Army to volunteer 

Helen’s first foray into service began when she joined the Army in 1963, but at the time, marriage meant the end of her active service. For Helen, however, her service didn’t end there. As a military wife and mother to three daughters, as well as a dedicated volunteer for both NT Netball and her local RSL Sub Branch, Helen remained committed to service far beyond her discharge and was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia during her time in Darwin.  

After more than 30 years in Darwin, Helen and her husband Trevor moved to Caloundra after his retirement, but their volunteering days were far from over. 

“It just seemed natural for us to join the RSL as part of our commitment to the work the RSL does for our many veterans. It’s part of our everyday life. We lived in Darwin for 36 years before we moved here and we were involved there, too,” Helen says. 

When she first began volunteering more than three decades ago, Helen never imagined the impact it would have on her life.  

“I just wanted to stay busy after the girls started school and to help where I could,” she says.  

“I didn’t realise at the time how rewarding it would be – not just for the people we support, but for me personally.”  

What began as a desire to contribute soon grew into a lifelong passion for service. Over the years, Helen has been involved in almost every aspect of RSL volunteering – from organising fundraising events and commemorative activities to providing practical support and a listening ear for veterans and their families. 

Stepping up

Her leadership and commitment naturally led her to take on the role of President of Caloundra RSL Women’s Auxiliary, a position she holds with pride and humility.

As President, she has helped foster a strong sense of camaraderie among members, encouraging women of all ages to become involved. 

“The Women’s Auxiliary plays such an important role,” she explains. “We support our Sub Branch, our veterans and our community in ways that often happen quietly behind the scenes, but they are vital.” Under her leadership, the auxiliary has grown stronger, united by a shared purpose of service and remembrance.

“I thoroughly enjoy my commitment to these ladies,” Helen says, “At most meetings, we have speakers, which is so wonderful, and we do as much as we can to help our veterans with whatever they need.”

For Helen, volunteering is about far more than just giving up her time; it’s about connection. 

“So many veterans just want to know that someone cares,” she says. 

“Sometimes it’s as simple as a conversation, a smile or showing up. Those moments matter. 

“I’ve also made many friendships through the RSL, which has made our lives much more fulfilling.” 

She believes that volunteers are often the bridge between veterans and the support they need, offering both practical help and human understanding.

“There are many veterans out there who just need someone to talk to, have a coffee with and generally just listen to them. As a volunteer, you fulfil these roles,” she explains.

After more than three decades, Helen’s passion for volunteering has not faded. Instead, it has deepened. She speaks passionately about the importance of volunteering in today’s world.

“Volunteering is so rewarding,” she says. “Our veterans committed themselves to the Defence Force; the least we can do is be there for them when their service is over.”

At 78, Helen is also a strong advocate for encouraging younger generations to volunteer. 

“You don’t have to have a military background to get involved,” she says. “All you need is compassion and a willingness to help. Volunteering gives you purpose, friendships and a sense that you’re contributing to something bigger than yourself.”