AUSTRALIA | More than 400 esteemed guests, including His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd) Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia and New South Wales Premier Chris Minns, gathered aboard the HMAS Adelaide (III) navy ship on Remembrance Day (11 November) for a night to remember at the inaugural RSL LifeCare Poppy Ball fundraiser.
Organised by RSL LifeCare Veteran Services and RSL NSW, the sold-out gala event raised more than $180,000 in funds that will go towards providing key services for the wellbeing of veterans and their families. The services include holistic wellbeing services and support, an employment program, housing and homelessness assistance, assistance with Department of Veterans Affairs claims, advocacy at the Veterans' Review Board, and equine therapy.
The event commemorated a significant moment in Australia’s military history, recognising the enduring symbol of the poppy, and raised crucial funds to support Australian veterans and their families.
Janet Muir, CEO of RSL LifeCare, said: "I am immensely grateful for the overwhelming response we received for our inaugural Poppy Ball. This extraordinary event has not only raised vital funds but also exemplified the unwavering support and commitment of our community to our veterans and their families. The funds raised at the Poppy Ball will enable us to continue delivering on our purpose of enriching the lives of veterans and their families.”
Other dignitaries and notable guests in attendance included Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Mark Hammond AM, The Honourable Matt Thistlethwaite, Assistant Minister for Defence, Veterans’ Affairs and the Republic, The Honourable David Harris, NSW Minister for Veterans, VC recipient Daniel Keighran and WWII Merchant Navy Veteran, Donald Kennedy OAM.
In addition to silent and live auctions at the fundraiser, the Royal Australian Navy held a 'Ceremonial Sunset' to pay tribute to our service personnel, offering a moment of reflection on the significance of their sacrifices.
