Newcastle RSL Sub-Branch Delivers Comprehensive Support to Local Veteran Community
The Newcastle RSL Sub-Branch is dedicated to providing year-round essential welfare and social support for a diverse local veteran community, ranging from members as old as 80 to as young as 30. These individuals have served in conflicts spanning from the Vietnam War to more recent operations in Afghanistan, highlighting the broad scope of service experiences addressed by the organisation.
Addressing the Transition from Military to Civilian Life
According to sub-branch president Peter Griffiths, a primary challenge for many veterans is the difficult transition from military life back into civilian society. "Veterans tend to miss their mates and the camaraderie that forms a security blanket for them, as well as the structured lifestyle that the services instil," he explained. To manage this, the sub-branch helps members take on various roles within the organisation, offering training and encouragement to foster a sense of purpose and belonging.
Specialised Team of Welfare and Mental Health Officers
The sub-branch maintains a team of 11 qualified specialists, including seven welfare support officers and four mental health first aid officers. Most of these personnel are ex-service members themselves, which allows them to deeply understand the unique challenges faced by veterans. They assist with a wide range of issues, from navigating Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) pension claims to addressing complex cases involving homelessness. Support is provided free of charge and in a low-key, confidential manner.
"Our welfare and mental health officers keep a discreet eye on members and are always available for a confidential chat," Peter said. "Being ex-military, they tend to understand the service person's outlook on life, having been through the system themselves. This is a great advantage in any conversation. Sometimes a simple 'Gidday, how are you going?' is the most invaluable thing you can say, and wait for their response."
Modernising Support to Include Families and Widows
The organisation has modernised its approach to veteran welfare by extending support to families and widows, recognising that partners often experience service-related trauma "by osmosis." "The old days are thankfully gone," Peter noted. The sub-branch actively involves partners in events and supports initiatives like the Military Wives Choir. Additionally, when a veteran passes away, immediate assistance is provided with funeral arrangements, military services, and guidance for families navigating DVA protocols.
Opening of the Hunter Veteran and Family Hub
A significant recent development has been the opening of the Hunter Veteran and Family Hub on Ken Tubman Drive in Maitland. This facility serves as a 'one-stop shop' where veterans and serving members can seek advice or handle personal matters. Federal Minister for Veterans' Affairs, Matt Keogh, RSL NSW Acting President Brigadier Vincent Williams, CSC (Retd.), CEO of RSL LifeCare, Drew Pearce, and centre manager Hayley Catford attended the official opening on March 16.
The sub-branch is also establishing a garden at the rear of the hub. "It's intended as a place where veterans and their wives can enjoy a cup of coffee or tea and sit and converse in private, discussing things they've learned from the Hub," Peter said. "It will also be a private place to be human if they need to shed a tear or two."
Leadership Informed by Personal Experience
Peter Griffiths' own service as chief engineer on an army ship during the Vietnam conflict deeply informs his leadership of the sub-branch and its mission. "Most people will never know what service men and women go through," he reflected. "They can only guess from watching movies, which tell an entertaining and exaggerated version. Military people live or die by following orders and what has been drilled into them. To question that in a moment of danger can result in death or injury."
He credits his instructors, who were Vietnam veterans, for shaping his approach. "All of my instructors were Vietnam veterans, they pulled no punches and had a way of making you want to do your best. For them to teach me what I know today and the way I live today, I thank them." This personal connection underscores the sub-branch's commitment to empathetic and effective support for the veteran community.
