Grafton RSL evolves with the times

GRAFTON RSL sub-branch is working to change the perception of your typical RSL club.

WHEN you picture an RSL club, do you see a bunch of retirees drinking beer?

That's the perception the Grafton RSL sub-branch is trying to shift as they look to the future and attempt to attract new, younger members. For 41-year-old Leith Barret, who joined about two years ago, the advocacy service they offer has been invaluable.

He was medically discharged from the army following an injury sustained while serving in the Solomon Islands in 2013, and was stumbling through the process until a couple of friends suggested he join the branch.

"I was paraded out of the depot but there wasn't much after that," Mr Barret said. "When it comes to Veterans Affairs, you need support because their support mechanisms aren't overly good.

"Which is why he would encourage anyone coming back from overseas service especially, to get involved as soon as possible.

"You've got to have a good advocate," he said.

COMRADERY: Grafton RSL sub-branch members Leith Barret, Sue Roberts, Brian Bultitude and Damien Roberts have found a safe haven in the evolving club. Picture: Clair Morton

Just as important is the support that comes with talking to other members who have been through similar circumstances, says former naval officer Damien Roberts.

"Here is a safe house so people can sit and talk about problems to each other and they understand," Mr Roberts said.

He joined the club about three years ago with wife and former able seaman Sue, who has also benefited from the advocacy services offered.

"My dad was always in the RSL and when Damien got involved I did too, but they have done advocacy for me a couple of times and just pointed me in the right direction of how to go about things," she said.

"(The RSL) does a lot more than Anzac Day."

In order to encourage some of the younger former servicemen and women to get involved with the club, Grafton sub-branch members have changed their monthly meetings from noon on a Friday to the last Sunday of each month, at 11.30am.

It's a move whole-heartedly supported by long-term member and sub-branch president Brian Bultitude, who said it was almost time for the younger members to step up and look after their mates.

"We've been looking after the diggers for years; it's time for the younger ones to step up and look to the future," he said.

"We've got the people there to train them but we're all getting older. The kids looking to join the forces now - they're the future that are going to need help later on."

Monthly meetings of the Grafton RSL sub-branch are held at the Grafton District Services Club, followed by refreshments and a barbecue.

Originally published as Grafton RSL evolves with the times