MEMBER NEWS

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.

RAAFA WA has announced the recipient of its inaugural Sugarbird Lady Award, dedicated to celebrating the remarkable legacy of Robin Miller, a pioneering nurse and aviator known affectionately as the ‘Sugarbird Lady’.

The Australian High Commission in London has hosted a ceremony to honour Flight Lieutenant Murray Adams, a Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) hero who flew with the RAF’s 80 and 250 Squadrons during World War II.

On a proud day at Torrens Parade Ground, Adelaide on 16 August 2025, No 9 Squadron serving members joined with 9 Squadron veterans for the No 9 Squadron Reformation and Vietnam War Legacy Commemoration Parade.

The Air Force Association (AFA) ACT Division celebrated a successful fundraising effort at the Royal Australian Air Force Band’s 80th Anniversary of Victory in the Pacific (VP) Day concerts held on 14 August 2025 at the Canberra Theatre Centre.