John, Naomi Enchong share 10+ years of veteran volunteer work for Nambour RSL

A couple has shared a snippet into their lives of volunteering after more than 10 years of helping and bonding with Sunshine Coast veterans and their families.

John and Naomi Enchong have volunteered for the Nambour RSL Sub Branch for more than 10 years, spending much time with veterans and their families. Photo: RSL Queensland

A Sunshine Coast couple who have dedicated their time and kindness to bettering the lives of veterans have shared a glimpse into their years of volunteering.

John and Naomi Enchong have assisted members of the Nambour RSL Sub Branch for more than 10 years, with their own past of service making them popular among veterans.

Mr Enchong joined the sub branch in 2013, just two years after moving to the suburb, and quickly volunteered himself and his wife to work as welfare officers.

The couple were already in the welfare industry, and Mr Enchong labelled themselves as “quite the team”.

Since 2013, the couple has donated years of their time to provide wellbeing support to veterans and their families on the Sunshine Coast.

Ms Enchong said they each clocked up several hours of volunteering most days, and they both “genuinely adore” everyone they work with.

“They all have an amazing story to tell and a life to live – doesn’t matter their age,” she said.

“If we can provide any help, whether that is just a smile, a kind word or a friendly face, we want to do that.”

The couple complement each other in their volunteering and are able to connect with veterans and their spouses through their own experience.

Mr Enchong had served in the army himself for 20 years and his partner supported him throughout his military career.

Being able to share their own experience and perspective with clients have made them popular among veterans.

“We created a veteran database from scratch just from both word of mouth and online connections, working with some of our clients for more than eight years,” Ms Enchong said.

John and Naomi Enchong holding a photo of themselves and Mr Enchong’s mother. Photo: RSL Queensland

Mr Enchong, having to cater to his health and service-related hearing difficulties, now often communicates with clients through online means.

“I typically connect with veterans through my own personal social media account, and I also post positive or important updates on the sub branch’s social media channel,” he said.

“For me, I had my own challenges both physically and mentally during and after my service, but I was lucky I got the right help at the right time, which included support from Naomi.”

The couple hope to “pay it forward” by sharing their knowledge and experiences.

Ms Enchong still takes on in-person visits or phone calls and helps veterans understand support services or even move houses or into aged care.

She also uses the sub branch’s vehicle to drive clients to outings when they cannot do so themselves.

The couple also sell badges for ANZAC and Remembrance Day and are certified funeral officers.

Nambour RSL volunteers John and Naomi Enchong sell badges for ANZAC and Remembrance Day every year. Photo: RSL Queensland

“Getting involved with veterans’ welfare and seeing individuals and families smile because of our actions is so rewarding. It fills your heart and means so much to us,” Mr Enchong said.

“We understand that a lot of people don’t have a lot of time compared to me and John, but we always say, “Pay it forward where you can’ and you will see the impact it has on a person’s welfare,” Ms Enchong added.

“Start small, even if that’s just checking in on your mates. And then if you want to do something more, connect with your local RSL Sub Branch and they will support you along the way.”

Originally published as John, Naomi Enchong share 10+ years of veteran volunteer work for Nambour RSL