AROUND 160 members and guests celebrated the 100 year anniversary of the Mount Gambier Community Returned and Services League on Saturday night.
World War II veterans, three tables of Vietnam War veterans and Mount Gambier’s last surviving Korean veteran were among those in attendance, as guest speakers reflected on the significance of the RSL and the importance of upholding the values of the league.
Official guests included RSL SA Branch state president Brigadier Tim Hanna AM, Member for Barker Tony Pasin, Member for Mount Gambier Troy Bell, Mount Gambier City Mayor Andrew Lee, Grant District Council Mayor Richard Sage, Acting Limestone Coast Police officer in charge Superintendent Damian Powell and Legacy SA president Mark Bouchier.
RSL president Bob Sandow said the anniversary dinner was a “most enjoyable and memorable occasion.”
“Formalities started at 5pm to allow the World War II veterans to attend and get away reasonably earlier,” Mr Sandow said.
“After the formalities concluded we were very honoured to have two vastly different bands as entertainment.
“The military band from 10/27 Battalion and the Highland Pipe Band performed – we were very lucky.”
Mr Sandow said the league was pleased with the number of community members in attendance at the milestone event.
“We had a great turnout to celebrate our 100th birthday and our guest speakers spoke from the heart,” he said.
“Six army cadets guided guests to their tables and ran plates all night, all wearing uniform.
“The Mount Gambier Philatelic Society loaned a display of postcards and letters sent from various war fronts to their folks back home and that was also well received.”
Mr Pasin said he was delighted to attend the milestone celebration.
“As the story of the Mount Gambier RSL continues to evolve beyond 100 years, what is certain is that the legacy of the service given and sacrifices made to protect our freedoms will continue to be honoured in our community,” he said.
“The league’s original objective to preserve the spirit of mateship formed amidst the carnage and horror of battle; to honour the memory of the fallen; and to help each other will continue in Mount Gambier for many years to come.”
