Anzac Day: Appeal goes online as tin rattlers forced off the streets by coronavirus

Every year in the build-up to Anzac Day, veterans and volunteers rattle the tins to support struggling veterans and their families. Coronavirus has taken those tin rattlers off the streets but you can still make a difference.

Coronavirus may have stop the tin rattles and badge sellers off the streets, but it won’t defeat the Anzac Appeal

They are as ubiquitous on the streets this time of the year as red poppies are in November

But because of the coronavirus threat, RSL Victoria’s annual Anzac Appeal, where volunteers sit near supermarkets and newsagents selling Anzac badges and wrist bands, has had to change tack.

In fact, the appeal has done what so many other businesses and traders have had to do: Go online.

RSL Victoria chief executive Jamie Twidale CSM said the appeal was the RSL’s biggest fundraiser of the year.

“It’s when our hardworking volunteers usually sell Anzac badges on streets right across Victoria to raise money for our veteran support programs,’’ he said.

“Our volunteers won’t be fundraising on the streets this year. But Australians

will be able to make an online donation at anzacappeal.com.au instead.”

Mr Twidale wanted to reassure the public all money raised would go to the same place it always does — to support vital services for veterans and their families.

RSL Victoria state president Dr Robert Webster OAM said the impact of coronavirus showed how important the appeal was to the veteran community.

MORE: SHOPPING CENTRES QUIET AS CUSTOMERS STAY AWAY

SHOPPERS LAMENT CLOSURE OF AUSSIE DISPOSALS STORES

COUNCIL SLAMMED FOR ‘OUTRAGEOUS JUNKET’ TO JAPAN

“Many of our veterans will be doing it especially tough,’’ he said

“Some will be struggling with social isolation, physical and mental health problems. The

longer this pandemic goes on, the more acute the needs of our veterans become.”

To donate, go to anzacappeal.com.au