2026 Australia Day Achievement Medallions
RSL Australia is proud to announce the RSL recipients of the Australia Day Achievement Medallions, celebrating the remarkable individuals whose dedication fuels our community.
The Australia Day Achievement Medallion allows Commonwealth agencies to acknowledge individuals for their contribution to the nation and their outstanding performance. Australia Day Achievement Medallions are awarded in recognition of exceptional performance in special projects or core duties, by Government departments and agencies, not-for-profit organisations and corporate entities.
This year’s recipients have gone above and beyond, embodying the spirit of service through their loyalty and dedicated service to veterans and their families.
RSL ACT Branch
David Learoyd - Tuggeranong Sub-Branch
David John Learoyd joined the RSL at the Canberra Services Club in Manuka in 2010 and was a member there until it burnt down in April 2011, following which he then moved to the Tuggeranong Sub-Branch and joined them on 19 April 2011. David has been a dedicated and active volunteer for the two annual RSL badge sales from 2012 to 2025 at various locations in Tuggeranong, including Erindale, Bunnings and South Point. David served on the Sub-Branch Committee as Treasurer and Membership Officer in 2015 and 2016, then served as Deputy President in 2017 through to 2019. During 2017 and 2018 while serving as Deputy President, David took on the additional duty of Acting Treasurer when no nominations for the position of Treasurer were forthcoming at those Annual General Meetings. David’s dedication and exceptional performance and service to the Sub-Branch in the positions of Treasurer, Membership Officer, Acting Treasurer, then Deputy President was recognised by the members and culminated in his election in 2019 to President of the Sub-Branch. From 2019 until the 2025 Annual General Meeting, David served with distinction as the President, during which time he selflessly supported the Committee in managing the Sub-Branch affairs and activities, as well as fostering the welfare and involvement of its members.
David proactively promotes the RSL, Sub-Branch, and Veteran community through meaningful and supportive public relations contributions on the Sub-Branch Facebook media page.
Throughout his tenure on the Committee from 2015 to 2025, David has given exemplary service and his dedication has been significant in the success of the Sub-Branch and its contribution to the RSL and the local Veteran community.
Elwyn Agonia - Port Moresby Sub-Branch
Elwyn has been a huge supporter of the Port Moresby RSL. He is a Digital Creator and Event Manager by trade, and for the past 15 years has tirelessly and generously donates his time and all the Audio-Visual Equipment that we use at Bomana on Anzac Day. He has even evolved the production to a live streaming of the ceremony which is watched in several countries by Expatriates and former members. Nothing is too much trouble for Elwyn.
Noelene Jill Lewis - Tuggeranong Sub-Branch
Noelene Jill Lewis has been a member of the ACT - Tuggeranong Valley Sub-branch for 10 years in 2026. During the last 5 years, Jill has been part of the ACT Branch volunteering in the capacity of VP Fundraising. Jill has been an integral part of both our ANZAC and Poppy appeals with the organising the Sub-branches merchandise both prior and after the appeals. Her willingness to ensure all sub-branches have their required stock even dropping in to locations to top up merchandise whilst selling for her our sub-branch. Since 2024 Jill has also taken on the roll of Membership Officer ensuring all new memberships and transfer of memberships are actioned in a timely manner and ensuring all our new members feel welcome into the ACT. ACT branch could not operate without the help of Jill and her willingness to support ACT Veterans and their families through her volunteering efforts. The ACT Branch Executive would like to thank one of our most valued volunteers for her tireless efforts and contributions by presenting you with the 2026 Australia Day Medallion
RSL Victoria
Marie Flewellen - RSL Victoria
Marie started with RSL Victoria on 26 May 2022 in the Volunteer Services team, after retiring from being a sales Manager in the medical field. Marie always felt very emotional on ANZAC Day because of her father who served, and the relatives in London who were bombed during WWII. This was why Marie was drawn to the RSL as her choice of organisations to volunteer with. Marie is also very mindful and aware that volunteering is good for one’s mental health and overall wellbeing. Keeping the brain active and feeling a sense of purpose is also a high priority for Marie.
Marie met with the team and immediately felt connected and welcomed. Marie was keen to start what she knew would be a long journey with the Volunteer Services team, initially in the Veteran and Family Services broader team, then later with the Operations team at ANZAC House. Marie is an asset to the team and is always happy to get involved in any project. Marie started with the setup of the RSL ID Card for Volunteers and Veteran and Family Service staff project. Marie continues to manage this process and helps with the Volunteer Management System set up and maintenance tasks. Marie is an outstanding support to the team in all areas of work, she has advanced skills in events management and is always enthusiastic to get involved in volunteer events that are held. Marie has progressed to conducting Sub-Branch Better Impact Information sessions and Administrator Level 1 Training facilitation. Marie says she loves her Thursdays in ANZAC House, the staff are lovely, kind and very helpful and are tolerant of her continual questions. Marie feels volunteering has been a great transition from her career to retirement and she feels she is doing something to help Veterans and their families in her way.
Kerry Oehm - RSL Victoria
Kerry has provided invaluable support to the advocates by assisting with the reading and interpretation of medical records, significantly reducing the time required to process complex cases. Her efforts have streamlined workflows and allowed advocates to focus more effectively on client outcomes. In addition to this, Kerry has willingly transitioned into a new and critical role: digitizing the extensive paper files held at the Veteran and Family Hub in Frankston. Her initiative in taking on this task independently, coupled with her diligence and attention to detail, has not only ensured the success of this project but also single-handedly prevented a potential confidentiality breach that could have exposed the RSL to serious risk. Her commitment and reliability have made a measurable difference, and her contributions deserve formal recognition.
Peter Turner - Ocean Grove Sub-Branch
Peter Turner is a dedicated committee member of the Ocean Grove RSL and the driving force behind the establishment and ongoing success of the Bellarine Veterans Group (BVG), a community engagement and social inclusion initiative supporting veterans and their families across the Bellarine Peninsula. A veteran of 47.5 years of distinguished service in the Royal Australian Army Infantry, Peter rose through the ranks from Private to Lieutenant Colonel, demonstrating exceptional leadership, commitment, and service to his country. After relocating from Sydney to Ocean Grove a few years ago with his wife, Peter joined the Ocean Grove RSL in 2023 with a strong desire to give back to the veteran community that had supported him throughout his career. Through the BVG, Peter has created a welcoming environment for connection and wellbeing. He has organised weekly coffee catchups, walking groups, information sessions, and a wide range of inclusive activities such as barefoot bowls, indoor rock climbing, mini golf, and veterans’ retreats. His efforts have significantly strengthened local veteran networks, enhanced social connectedness, and contributed to the broader mission of RSL Victoria’s wellbeing and community engagement initiatives.
RSL Queensland
Arthur Lee Regnart - Brisbane North District
It is with great appreciation that we nominate Lee Regnart for the Australia Day Achievement Medallion to recognise his outstanding service as a volunteer treasurer. For several years, Lee has dedicated his time, energy, and expertise to supporting a Volunteer Association, his Sub Branch as well as RSL Brisbane North District. As Treasurer, Lee has played an important role in ensuring the financial stability and transparency of the Sub Branch and District and the Association he supports. He brings a deep sense of loyalty humility and accountability to his role. Despite the complexity of working across multiple branches, Lee handles his responsibilities with commitment, professionalism, and a quiet humility that exemplifies the spirit of volunteer service. His ongoing contribution over the years has helped streamline processes, improve reporting standards, and foster trust within the District. In recognition of his sustained and impactful contribution, and his dedication to upholding the values of RSL Queensland and the veteran community, we believe Lee is truly deserving of this award.
Innisfail Board Committee - Far Nothern District
Executive Board Committee—Lachlan Ogilvie, Sean O’Shea, and Jasdeep Atwal—have shown exceptional dedication and service to the Sub Branch, playing an invaluable role in supporting younger veterans and their families. They coordinate and deliver a diverse range of yearly programs, including information sessions, social outings, and Digger’s Days, and are very active in fundraising. They also work hard to engage the whole Innisfail community in commemorative events such as ANZAC Day, Vietnam Veterans Day, VP Day, and Remembrance Day. Through these initiatives, the Board Committee has fostered a welcoming and supportive environment for veterans and their families, and has been a vital resource for the Sub Branch’s Information Technology training. Each year, they generously share their expertise by conducting workshops on the use and application of Point-of-Sale technology, enhancing the Sub Branch’s efficiency during fundraising and merchandise sales, they are highly valued members who consistently contribute to the Sub Branch’s success.
Beenleigh and District Sub-Branch - Gold Coast District
The RSL Gold Coast District is proud to nominate the RSL Beenleigh and District Sub Branch for an Australia Day Award in recognition of their exceptional service to veterans, their families and the broader community. The Sub Branch has consistently demonstrated excellence in their core duties (care, commemoration and camaraderie) and provide vital wellbeing support, expert advocacy and assistance with securing employment for veterans. Their commitment to upholding the Objects of the League reflects their ongoing contribution to our veterans. The RSL Beenleigh and District Sub Branch are truly deserving of this honour.
Martin Tanzer - North Queensland District
Martin “Marty” Tanzer has demonstrated exceptional dedication and commitment during his time as a committee member of the Bowen RSL Sub Branch. He is passionate about his involvement with the RSL, consistently assisting with Veterans Services, commemorative events, and social functions. Marty is a worthy recipient of the Australia Day Award, which would be a fitting recognition of his outstanding work as a Delegate and Home Visitor to veterans. The commitment he displays is a testament to his dedication and his genuine care for the veteran community. As an active Wellbeing Officer for the Bowen RSL, Marty is at the forefront of monitoring and reporting on the changing needs of veterans and their families. His tireless efforts ensure that support is provided where it is most needed, making a significant difference in the lives of those he serves.
Helena Smith - Sunshine Coast & Regional District
Helena Smith for the 2026 Australian Day Achievement Medallion in recognition of her outstanding and dedicated service to the veteran community for over 30 years. Helena has consistently demonstrated a profound commitment to the Wellbeing Advocacy of Veterans and their families, particularly those affected by post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), providing invaluable Welfare and compensation advocacy. Helena’s service has significantly impacted the lives of many, making her an exemplary candidate for this award. Helena embodies the spirit of community service and dedication that the Australia Day Achievement Medallion seeks to honour. Her decades-long commitment to advocating veterans and their families, coupled with the leadership in Training and Development, has made an immeasurable difference to the veteran community.
Kirsty Claassen - South Eastern District
Kirsty Claassen performs two roles at the Sunnybank Sub Branch:
Permanent part-time Administration Officer (twelve hours per week) and voluntary Honorary Secretary.
The two roles often merge, and Kirsty enthusiastically performs what could only be described as a full-time job. Her diligence in supporting the Board of management in its endeavours is a major contributor to the overall success of the Sub Branch.
She always has the welfare of our 240 members foremost in everything she does. She is thorough, respectful and considerate when dealing with everybody.
She recently stepped forward and volunteered to take on a significant part in the planning and conduct of “VP80”, a celebration of the end of WW2 in the Pacific hosted by the South Eastern District.
Her business experience is invaluable, especially when dealing with the wider community. In her spare time, she wholeheartedly supports her husband, an Afghanistan war veteran, and their two young daughters. South Eastern District unreservedly nominate Kirsty Claassen for the 2026 award of the Australia Day Medallion.
Brian Tidyman - Wide Bay and Burnett District
For more than 15 years, Brian has exemplified exceptional leadership and dedication to veterans and the wider Hervey Bay community through his ongoing service with the RSL. Beginning as a Committee Member in 2008 and now serving as President of the Hervey Bay Sub Branch, he has held numerous senior roles at both Sub Branch and District levels, including Vice President, Acting President, and District Deputy President. Brian has been a tireless advocate for veterans’ welfare, championing the need for trained advocates, expanding wellbeing services, and ensuring the Sub Branch remains financially sustainable and future focused. Under his leadership, the Sub Branch has strengthened its community connections through partnerships with local schools, cadet units, and service organisations, and initiatives such as the monthly Digger’s Lunches—providing vital social connection for up to 90 isolated veterans and carers. Brian has also overseen major projects including the Light Horse War Memorial, Cenotaph refurbishment, and the acquisition of welfare vehicles to support members. Through his compassion, integrity, and commitment, Brian has fostered a culture of service and remembrance that truly embodies the spirit of the Australia Day Medallion.
Gordon Nielson - Western District
Gordon has shown exceptional dedication and service to the Sub Branch, where he plays an invaluable role in as the Membership Officer. He is not limited to Membership Officer he has represented in many roles as District Delegate and State Delegate. Each year, he generously shares his expertise by helping with fundraising initiatives within the Sub Branch and Community. He is always available to assist with anything that is asked of him, he is a highly valued member who consistently contributes to the Sub Branch's success.
Toogoolawah Sub-Branch Executive - Morton District
Toogoolawah Sub Branch new Board had inherited a Sub Branch in massive decline, the AGM in 2024 had only 6 people attend. The new board took up their positions and went to work to not only improve the membership, but to improve the support for the Sub Branch in this small town. They re-opened the hall for Friday night meals, and Wednesday morning welfare drop in coffee. This brought more people into the Sub Branch and improved their membership numbers and the community involvement into the Sub Branch. Through these initiatives, the Sub Branch has become a welcoming and supportive environment for veterans and their families, were previously, many people believed the Sub Branch was closed. Service membership has increased to 37 Service members and 110 Non-League, with nearly 60 to 70 people attending Friday night meals. They are now undertaking the massive job of trying to repair the hall which has been neglected over the years, this includes having to seek grants and support for the old building so that they continue to strive to support the community of Toogoolawah.
Peter Hayton - Far Nothern District
Peter Hayton is the current Treasurer of far Northern District and has been a member of QLD RSL since 24 April 2001.
During this period, Peter has been a hardworking member of Far Northern District in volunteering his free time to assist his fellow veterans and families in need.
Highly regarded and respected by his peers. Peter has also held the following positions:
• Vice President Cairns RSL Sub Branch
• President Cairns RSL Sub Branch
• District Vice President
• District Treasurer
The RSL Far Northern District Board fully support Peter’s nomination for the Australia Day Award 2026.
Freddie Fenton - Gold Coast District
Mr Freddie Fenton has shown exceptional dedication and service to the Tamborine Mountain RSL Sub Branch and veteran community where he has supported ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day services as the local Bugler for well in excess of 15 years, starting when he was in High School. It is rare that young Australian men or women take on traditional roles such as sounding the Last Post and Reveille at military remembrance ceremonies. Not only has Freddie done this in the Tamborine Mountain community since 2008 but he has continued to return and support community commemorative events since graduating from High School and moving away from Tamborine Mountain. As a young man impacted by a physical disability, Freddie has not allowed this to dampen his spirit or limit his commitment to preserving a part of Australia’s military history. Freddie embodies the values of service, courage, respect, integrity and excellence despite having never served nor being able to serve. Freddie is a positive, selfless and compassionate individual whose contribution to the memory of those who have served is worthy of recognition.
Freddie impresses by the seriousness with which he takes his role, his masterful musical ability, and his sense of occasion. He is a worthy recipient of a 2026 ANZAC Day Medallion.
RSL NSW
Ronald Weewan - Belfield
Ronald has successfuly held the positions of both Secretary and Treasure rfor many years and continues to do so today. Ron also served as Senior Vice President until 2020. He has brought his computor literacy to the sub Branch which is so necessary today and in doing so passed the online courses introduced by RSL NSW and on two occasions represented Congress online.
Frank Miles - Berowra
Frank Miles is recognised for his exceptional leadership and dedicated service to the veteran community of Berowra. A long-standing member of the Berowra RSL sub-Branch, Frank has been instrumental in organising ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day services, maintaining the local War Memorial, and supporting veterans and their families. His calm leadership, integrity, and tireless commitment embody the true spirit of community service and mateship. Through his actions, Frank has strengthened the bonds between veterans and the wider community, ensuring that the sacrifices of those who served are honoured and remembered for generations to come.
Paul Harris-Walker - Castle Hill & District
Paul has demonstrated exceptional commitment to veteran welfare and community service through his role as Vice President Personnel of the Castle Hill & District RSL sub-Branch, a position he has held for two and a half years. With seven years of dedicated service on the Welfare Team, Paul has been a consistent and compassionate presence at Bupa Retirement Village in Dural, where he leads Remembrance Day and ANZAC services and actively contributes to other events such as International Day. Paul also serves as the sub-Branch delegate to the Far Western District President’s Council, further strengthening representation and collaboration across the region. In addition to his technical contributions, he assists with funeral arrangements for veterans, supports the President in planning, and represents the sub-Branch at commemorative events. His leadership, initiative, and unwavering dedication embody the spirit of service honoured by the Australia Day Achievement Medallion.
Kevin John Pritzler - City of Queanbeyan
Kevin is an active affiliate member of our sub-Branch's ANZAC Day Committee, Remembrance Day Committee, Queanbeyan Business Council RSL Representative, RSL Building Maintenance Supervisor and RSL Landrover driver.
John Stanford - Collary
John has been our Treasurer for the past eight years and will be retiring at the next election. During his tenure he has supported the growth of the sub-Branch and contributed to it's financial management and fundraising. We returned to profitability in 2021 and regularly donate to our Veterans.
Matthew Jones - Cumberland
Matthew shows dedication and commitment in supporting and managing a large sub-Branch and and has assisted in increasing the sub-Branch membership. He supports the Strathfield and Cumberland communities with integrity and honour with camaraderie and commemorations, ensuring that the Australian national values and qualities are represented and maintained.
Lynette Johnson - Dee Why
Lynette Johnson is an exceptionally dedicated and active Welfare Support Officer within the Dee Why RSL sub-Branch and surrounding community. She has consistently provided compassionate support to veterans and their families, often assisting at very short notice. Lynette has represented the sub-Branch by conducting RSL Funeral Tributes at funerals and has aways made herself available to support members in need. In addition to duties as a WSO she regularly conducts hospital and home visits and phone calls on behalf of the sub-Branch, offering comfort, welfare assistance and ongoing contact for members and their families experiencing difficult times. Her commitment, reliability and genuine care for others has ensured that many members receive the support they require.
Francis Patrick McGovern - Gloucester
Francis has been an active member of RSL NSW since 1993. He was elected Treasurer for the Gloucester sub-Branch in March 2012, a position he held until March 2024. During his time as Treasurer,Francis has excelled with his duties. Additionally, he has been instrumental in engaging sub-Branch and Auxiliary members in assisting him in fundraising activities within our community in the lead up to ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day. He has also enthusiastically organised raffles to support sub-Branch operations. Francis' unassuming but dedicated commitment to our sub-Branch highlights that he is a deserving recipient of the Australia Day Achievement Medallion.
Roderick John MacLean - Goulburn
Rod has been Honorary Secretary of the sub-Branch for 15 years and has been responsible for organising all commemorative services during this time. He has assisted in paying tributes at deceased veterans' funerals and fundraising activities. During the Presient's absence due to illness, Rod kept the sub-Branch functioning, fulfilling the President's duties as well has his own Secretarial duties. Rod was also responsible for having a Honour Roll for WWII - Vietnam Waw that has become the focal point for major commemorative services.
Josephine Paton - Laurieton
Josephine Paton is a dedicated member of the Laurieton RSL sub-Branch Auxiliary and has shown unwavering commitment to supporting veterans through extensive fundraising efforts. Her tireless dedication significantly contributes to the welfare of our veteran community making her a deserving recipient of the Australia Day Achievement Medallion.
Elizabeth Featherstone - Medowie
Medowie sub-Branch would like to nominate Elizabeth Featherstone for the 2025 Australia Day Medallion. Liz is one of the sub-Branch Wellbeing Support Officers and fundraising co-ordinator. Liz is dedicated to the care and well-being of all of our veterans and veteran community, she is always first to go on calls checking on a veteran who might have medical needs or physical needs, she takes them and their families to medical appointments, hospital visits and home visits. Liz also co-ordinates fundraising - from Bunnings BBQ's, monthly markets where we sell sausage sandwiches and organising the purchase and sale of our Commemorative Merchandise for Remembrance Day, ANZAC Day and Vietnam Veterans Day. Liz is a very deserving nominee, she loves what she does and is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to the wellbeing of veterans and support of the sub-Branch
Peter Herbert Blume - Merewether-Hamilton-Adamstown
Peter has been a dedicated Welfare Officer at the Merewether-Hamilton-Adamstown RSL sub-Branch since 2016, providing compassionate support to members, especially during challenging times such as the COVID pandemic. His commitment to member well-being and collaboration with the sub-Branch leadership has greatly contributed to the organisation's success and strong community reputation. As the demands of the role have grown, Peter has recently stepped down, with three Welfare Officers now taking his place, but his legacy of care and mateship remains highly respected among his peers.
Barry Leslie Tait - Nowra
Barry, affectionately known as Grumpy, is a dedicated and proactive Vice president of the Sub-Branch. He consistently steps up to assist with a wide range of responsibilities, including acting as the nearest point of contact for the sub-Branch office, supporting commemorations, guiding visitors through the hall’s memorabilia displays, helping with welfare visits, attending member funerals, setting up ANZAC Day services, participating in local school projects, selling badges, assisting at community barbecues, and volunteering at the local Day Club.
Michael Korfias - Penshurst
Vice President, Michael Korfias. Michael enlisted on 28 March 1078 and was attached to HMAS Waterhen. He was discharged on 17 March 1980. He joined the sub-Branch on 5 August 1980 and has been an active member ever since. He has performed exceptionally as a committee member and now Vice President. In particular he has for many years undertaken the role of visitation officer regularly visiting our sick and older veterans.
Robert Chapman - Tamworth
Robert is a former President of the Tamworth sub-Branch and has devoted outstanding service to our organization. He maintains the sub-Branch museum and continually attends all of our events. He conducts funeral services with great dignity and we deem him to be a most worthy recipient of this medallion.
RSL South Australia, Northern Territory, Broken Hill
Jeff Yates - Tea Tree Gully RSL
Jeff is a level 3 Advocate working directly with the State Branch and Member of his local Sub-Branch. Jeff is one of the hardest working Advocates I know of here in SA. He takes on any case that is too difficult, and always goes the extra mile for our veterans, whilst taking care not to over service or complicate the journey.
Ash Muir - RSL SA
Ash joined the RSL Reach Out Wellbeing program as a Volunteer Wellbeing Support Officer at the beginning of 2024. He found his purpose was lacking post service, and believs this program assisted him in finding it once more, allowing him to give back to those that need it most. He goes the extra mile for his clients, taking them out for coffee….even took a client to his place of work for a tour (Port Adelaide Football Club).
Jo Grotto - Mallala RSL
Jo’s list of accomplishments continues to grow. She is the Program Coordinator for the RSL Fort 2 Fort Remembrance Walk, an annual event. She is the President of the Mallala RSL (after numerous committee roles at Mallala and Largs Bay RSLs. Jo was employed by State Branch to assist in the development of the Reach Out wellbeing program throughout 2024 and when her contract concluded, jumped over to become one of our most active volunteer wellbeing support officers.
Ron Green - RSL SA
Ron has been a very important volunteer for our State Branch, providing thorough merchandise management for Sub-Branches and coordinating stock for our appeals for many years. Despite several health issues, Ron has put his role first, of which he undertakes with complete passion and loyalty to the RSL. We cannot thank Ron enough for his valuable volunteer hours.
Mark Wheaton - Morphett Vale RSL
Mark is nominated for his Reach Out work and support to the RSL (Morphett Vale President), Mark is an active President of his Sub-Branch at Morphett Vale and works extremely hard to ensure his members are heard, supported and safe. He undertook the Reach Out training and now serves as a wellbeing support officer, despite numerous hours already invested in his own Sub-Branch. He is a “go-to” for wellbeing related situations in the Southern Adelaide area and has helped many veterans in this role.
RSL WA
Christina O'Hara - Rockingham Sub-Branch
Christina Jean O'Hara - City of Rockingham RSL Sub-Branch has been nominated for her valuable, outstanding and hardworking commitment to the league, the Veteran community, her ability to develop rapport with Defence organisations, offering guidance and support to ADF personnel, working with local governing bodies in preparation for Commemorative services and funding, whilst demonstrating respect, dignity, honour, trust, loyalty and professionalism. Christina has dedicated her time and effort over the years as Honorary Secretary, Treasurer, Senior Vice President and in particular, serving as the Sub-Branch's first female President to hold office and bringing the ANZAC spirit alive with her cheerful disposition and her ability to be a conscientious member of our team, whilst undertaking her full-time job at HMAS Stirling. The President, Committee and the members of the Sub-Branch would be grateful if Christina was to receive an Australia Day Medallion as a prestigious acknowledgment for her exemplary work on behalf of the Returned Services League of Western Australia.
Constantine Kikeros - Three Springs-Arrino Sub- Branch
Constantine Kikeros selflessness, dedication, and ability to bring people together make him an invaluable part of both the veteran and wider community. His leadership and humility continue to inspire all who know him. For his outstanding service, advocacy, and ongoing commitment to remembrance and community, Con is a most worthy recipient of the Australia Day medallion.
Greg Gough - North Beach Sub-Branch
Greg plays an important role in bringing our members together as a caring group who support each other. He undertakes his role of Wellbeing Support Officer with professionalism and genuine understanding, and fosters a culture that our members are there for each other. It’s a reflection of his character that he offers so much support, not only for all our members, but to those who are unwell or in need of mateship. He has developed a supported team of members who share Greg’s character, and are willing to visit, or make a simple phone call in order to continue their link to the Sub-Branch. In 2021 he was awarded Life Membership to RSLWA. His long term membership of RSLWA is to be commended as he has made a significant contribution, not only to our Sub-Branch, but also the community, our members, members’ families and the wider veteran community.
Northam RSL Sub-Branch Auxiliary
Over the years the Auxiliary have held dancers, raffles, cakes stall’s and catering for all types of fund-raising events. Monies raised are used for the benefits of Veterans and their families in the Northam area.
The Auxiliary is heavily involved with different community groups and liked mined people. Such as for example, the Northam Lions, Rotary Inner Wheel, the Northam Hospital Ladies Auxiliary and the Community Shed (Men’s Shed). Also, the WRAAC Association and RAAFA.
With generous support and donations to each group over the years to the ADF Cadets e.g. 519 Army Cadets, TS Perth Naval Cadets and the Air Force Drum Band.
The making and giving care packages to local aged homes. Where veterans are spending their final years. Conducting ANZAC and Remembrance Day services at both venues.
Catering for RSL SB Members funerals and wakes, preparing meals for members coming out of hospital. Transporting SB Members to Doctors and Medical appointment both in Northam and around Perth. The aims, policy and objects set from time to time in the League’s Constitution, together with such minor domestic aims and objects as it may be deemed necessary to add, shall be the aims, objects and policy of every Auxiliary formed under these rules.
Greg Wilson - Highgate Sub-Branch
Greg Wilson, by any measure, has dedicated himself for over three decades supporting the welfare and betterment of individuals and organisations of the Veteran and Ex-service Community in Western Australia. His significant contributions included his involvement with the Defence Reserves Association (DRA) from the late 1990s, serving as its secretary till 2003. Key activities of the DRA were, and still are, the welfare and betterment of serving and former Defence Force members and, where appropriate, seeking changes to the conditions of service, amenities and equipment relating to Defence Reserves. Greg has been a leader and a committed team player in his various roles and duties, as detailed in the background of this nomination. Most recently Greg stood down as Secretary of the Highgate RSL Sub-Branch in August 2025 after 10 continuous years in this crucial and demanding position. Yet he continues to serve as a Warden of the State War Memorial with a band of committed others who have demonstrated the highest levels of commitment to commemoration. A feature of Greg Wilson’s commitment of service to veteran organisations and individuals has been his quiet professionalism, dedication to duty and attention to detail: be it remembering those who have fallen, looking after the needs of aged veterans, ensuring reflection and remembrance of those veterans who have since passed away and showing an enthusiastic approach to welcoming a new wave of veterans who are now reaching out for support.
It is respectfully submitted that Greg Wilson is a deserving recipient of the Australia Day Medallion that is rightly reserved for the highest level of recognition for service to individual veterans and the veteran communities in Western Australia.
