Wednesday, 17 August 2022

Torquay RSL

Mr MEDDICK (Western Victoria) (09:44): I have been a resident of Torquay for over 32 years now, and one of the things I am most proud of is our Anzac Day dawn service. It is iconic and known around the world for being simply spectacular. It has been a credit to the RSL sub-branch that they have continued to run such an impressive event for so long, and I have been proud to march and take part in it since the passing of my father. Now it needs help. Safety issues have meant the event has had to be scaled back.

I was immensely pleased, not just as a local MP but as a full affiliate member of the RSL, to host the Honourable Shaun Leane, Minister for Veterans, at the sub-branch recently to discuss the options to restore the service to its former glory. I know that president Bob Tyler, secretary Daryll Topp and committee member Andy Badelow were chuffed to sit down with Minister Leane, and we all came away with a hope that with Minister Leane on board things will happen.