MEMBER NEWS

A moving ceremony in Adelaide has marked the continuation of a treasured RAAF tradition, with No. 10 Squadron presenting the prestigious Dudley Marrows Trophy for the first time under its new name.

There are few positives that come from conflict, but the creation of the RAAF Veterans’ Residences Trust stands as an enduring exception. The Trust’s origins trace back to a remarkable episode during the closing months of the Second World War. On 16 November 1944, an RAAF Sunderland aircraft from No. 10 Squadron played a crucial role in the capture of the German merchant vessel MV Rostock in the Atlantic. By locating and shadowing the vessel, the crew coordinated with nearby naval forces, leading to the successful interception and seizure of the MV Rostock.

In October, AFA-SA joined with representatives of the 460SQN Friends and Family Group and a 462SQN aviator from RAAF Edinburgh at the Air Force Memorial, Torrens Parade Ground, Adelaide, to acknowledge the 80th Anniversary of the disbandment of 460SQN and those who paid the ultimate sacrifice with the squadron in World War 2.

DVA is committed to supporting veterans to achieve improved mental health and wellbeing outcomes by providing access to a range of programs and treatment options

DVA is committed to ensuring veterans and their families have access to the support they need to lodge claims with confidence. The Claims Lodgement Assistant (CLA) program connects veterans with specially trained DVA staff who provide personalised guidance throughout the claims process, from getting started to submitting online.

A War Cemetery, located at the entrance to the Belgian Gardens cemetery in Townsville, was proudly established during World War 2 for those ADF members, in the local area, who were lost on active service. In 1946 the War Cemetery was closed to any further burials with the graves and grounds currently being maintained by the Office of Australian War Graves.

Bond University is seeking input from Australian health practitioners for a national research project exploring the potential benefits of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) in treating veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

A year after receiving his assistance dog Twix, sponsored by the Air Force Association NSW (RAAFA-NSW), veteran Ian has reclaimed his life in ways he never thought possible. The Defence Community Dogs (DCD) program, supported by RAAFA-NSW’s generosity, paired Ian with Twix, sparking a journey of resilience and reconnection.

Eleanor Newton, Team Leader at Social Futures Veterans Connect, said the post-service journey varies for each individual, necessitating flexible support options.

On 17 October, more than 120 attendees attended the Dedication of, and the Inaugural Commemorative Service at, the new Air Force Memorial at the South Australian Aviation Museum in Port Adelaide.

The No 37 Squadron RAAF Association is proud to announce the dedication of a memorial plaque at the National Vietnam Veterans Museum on Phillip Island. This event honours the 50th anniversary of the HQRIC Detachment S deployment, a pivotal response to the humanitarian crisis in Southern Vietnam during March and April 1975.

Eleanor Newton, Team Leader at Social Futures Veterans Connect, said the post-service journey varies for each individual, necessitating flexible support options.

Veterans in Maitland, Gosford and surrounding areas can access tailored support through Social Futures Veterans Connect, designed to enhance wellbeing with experts emphasising early intervention for a smoother transition to civilian life.

Eleanor Newton, Team Leader at Social Futures Veterans Connect, said the post-service journey varies for each individual, necessitating flexible support options.

In a moving display of national unity and remembrance, several hundred people have gathered in Hobart to mark the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Britain, the pivotal World War II air campaign that halted Nazi Germany’s invasion plans for the United Kingdom.

For Wing Commander Jenny Robertson (retd), the Battle of Britain is more than a pivotal moment in history. It’s a symbol of courage, sacrifice and the enduring legacy of air power.

To mark the 75th anniversary of Australian service in the Malayan Emergency, the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) held a National Commemorative Service at Rond Terrance (Parkes Way) in Canberra on 31 August 2025.