Angela McCann OAM named RSL ANZAC of the Year
For Angela McCann OAM, supporting her community has been a lifelong commitment.
Born and raised in Coolamon in the Riverina region of New South Wales, Angela served in the Royal Australian Air Force before returning to the community that would become the focus of decades of voluntary service.
As Honorary Secretary of the Coolamon RSL Sub-Branch for more than 20 years, Angela has become a trusted source of support for local veterans and their families.
Her contribution extends from helping veterans navigate services and DVA claims to organising major commemorative events, supporting regional schools and creating opportunities for veterans to connect and express themselves through the arts.
Her outstanding contribution has now been recognised with a 2026 RSL ANZAC of the Year Award.
The awards are presented annually to Australians who have served their fellow Australians and the community in a positive, selfless and compassionate manner.
A steady hand behind the Sub-Branch
For more than two decades, Angela has served as Honorary Secretary of the Coolamon RSL Sub-Branch.
It is a role that places her at the heart of its day-to-day operations, managing correspondence and records, organising meetings and events, and liaising with RSL NSW and other veteran support organisations.
But Angela’s contribution goes far beyond administration.
She has become a trusted point of contact for veterans and families seeking assistance, taking the time to listen, understand what they need and connect them with appropriate support.
Angela has helped veterans navigate the complexities of DVA claims, access healthcare and support services, and find opportunities for social connection within their community.
Her work is characterised by a personal and compassionate approach, ensuring veterans and their families feel heard, supported and valued.
Bringing generations together in remembrance
Angela also plays a leading role in organising ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day commemorations in Coolamon.
Bringing together veterans, schoolchildren, community organisations and local dignitaries, the ceremonies provide an important opportunity for the community to remember those who served and ensure their stories continue to be shared.
Angela’s leadership helps ensure each commemoration is conducted with dignity and reverence while remaining inclusive and meaningful to the wider community.
Through this work, she has helped create opportunities for different generations to come together in remembrance and deepen their understanding of the legacy of Australian service.
Creating connection through art
Angela’s impact across the Riverina extends well beyond her work with the RSL.
As Coordinator and Secretary of the Up2Date Art Exhibition, she has helped transform what began as a community fundraiser into a significant regional cultural event.
Now in its 20th year, the exhibition brings together established and emerging artists, volunteers, sponsors and visitors from across the Riverina.
Importantly, its impact continues long after the exhibition closes.
Proceeds are distributed to small rural public schools in Matong, Ganmain, Coolamon and Marrar, helping provide resources for local students and ensuring the event gives back to the communities that support it.
Angela has also championed the inclusion of the Veterans Art Prize, sponsored by the Coolamon RSL Sub-Branch.
The prize provides veterans with an opportunity to express themselves and share their stories through creativity, while fostering connection, wellbeing and a sense of belonging.
A life shaped by community
Angela’s volunteer service stretches across the Riverina.
She is a familiar presence at community events, fundraisers and civic initiatives, and has helped organise breakfasts and luncheons for veterans and their families as well as supporting local festivals and commemorative activities.
Her contribution is also reflected in the people she encourages to get involved.
Angela has become a generous mentor to other volunteers, motivating people to take on responsibilities, develop their skills and step into leadership roles of their own.
By bringing people together and encouraging others to contribute, she has helped build a culture of service that can continue well into the future.
Her contribution to veterans and the wider community has previously been recognised with the Medal of the Order of Australia.
The spirit of ANZAC
Angela’s service demonstrates the difference one person can make by consistently being there for others.
Her contribution can be seen in veterans receiving the support they need, families finding someone willing to listen, communities gathering in remembrance, young people benefiting from new opportunities and veterans finding a creative voice through art.
Just as importantly, Angela has inspired others to step forward and contribute, helping ensure the spirit of service continues beyond her own remarkable contribution.
Congratulations, Angela, and thank you for your tireless dedication to veterans, their families and the communities of the Riverina.
