Remembrance Day and RSL Recognition

Wednesday November 13, 2024

Mr BELL (Mount Gambier) (11:56): I rise to support the motion from the member for Waite and thank her for bringing it to this place. It is essential we take time to pause, acknowledge and remember the brave men and women who risked their lives to defend our freedoms and uphold the values we hold dear. Remembrance Day provides us with an opportunity to honour the sacrifices, reflect on the service, and ensure that the lessons of war remain forever present.

This is where the role of the RSL and other organisations that support veterans and their families becomes crucial. Since its founding in 1916, the RSL has been committed to veterans' physical, mental and social wellbeing. It has evolved into so much more, playing a central role in preserving the memory of those who served through commemorative events like Remembrance Day, Vietnam Veterans Day and ANZAC Day, while also championing veterans' rights and welfare. The RSL fosters support among veterans and their families, providing a network of understanding, connection and support.

Our Mount Gambier branch of the RSL, South Australia's oldest, recently celebrated 107 years of service. Leading this branch is President Bob Sandow, whose dedication was officially recognised with life membership earlier this year. Bob joined the RSL management committee in 2011, served as vice president from 2013 to 2014, and has held the role of president ever since. As a former member of the state RSL committee, editor of the monthly sub-branch newsletter, and a recognised military historian in Mount Gambier, he has made a significant contribution to the organisation and to our community.

In addition to his RSL work, Bob is a committed volunteer in numerous community organisations and was awarded the Premier's Certificate of Recognition for Outstanding Volunteer Service in 2022. He currently serves as secretary for the South-East Legacy group, supporting veterans' spouses and children, and is an active member of the Royal South Australian Regiment Association, where he has served as president of the South-East branch for three years and secretary for eight.

Bob's community spirit extends beyond the RSL. In 2007 he walked the Kokoda Track to raise funds for cystic fibrosis, and he participated in the Sandakan Death March in 2000. His other roles include serving as patron of the Mount Gambier BMX club for eight years, being a board member of Heritage Industries for 15 years, including two as chairman, CEO of the Western Border Soccer Association for four years, and past president and patron of the Mount Gambier Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Bob is a passionate advocate for community involvement in the RSL, particularly focusing on engaging the next generation to ensure the preservation of memories, traditions and, most importantly, lessons. Through school visits and tours of the local museum—guided by dedicated volunteers Ian Summers and Peter Bruhn—students gain a deep appreciation of our history.

This year marked the 20th anniversary of RSL members visiting McDonald Park Primary School for a Remembrance Day service, a tradition that has now evolved to see students leading this service, from planning the wreath presentation to reciting the Ode of Remembrance. Bob also advocates for Remembrance Day to honour not only veterans but also all first responders, who risk their lives to protect and serve others. A poignant reminder of this is the upcoming anniversary of the death of Brevet Sergeant Jason Doig, a Lucindale police officer killed in the line of duty last year in the state's South-East.

This year's Remembrance Day service in Mount Gambier was once again strongly supported by our community, a reflection of the local spirit of remembrance and respect. Pastor Dave Sigley led the ceremony, with school students and 612 Squadron Air Force Cadet Christopher Mossford-MacGregor performing the last post, and teacher Graham Roulstone reciting the ode. The formal proceedings concluded with a flyover of the Royal Australian Air Force Boeing P-8A Poseidon aircraft and the presentation of the Tenison Woods College Flyers Award awarded to college student, Alexei Georgiou. The day closed with a lunch hosted by the Mount Gambier RSL Women's Auxiliary.

Remembrance Day is not just about the past but about promoting unity and respect within our community today. Through our shared remembrance, we express gratitude, support those who continue to serve, and inspire future generations to carry forward the spirit of courage, sacrifice and dedication embodied by our veterans and first responders. May we continue to uphold these values, honouring their legacies with pride and respect. Lest we forget.

Speeches