It’s been a massive week for the Maitland RSL sub-Branch.
Firstly, the organisation staged a hugely-successful Dawn Service and commemoration at the World War I Cenotaph in Maitland Park on Anzac Day, which attracted thousands of locals and visitors alike.
And, then, on Thursday 27 April, the Telarah Bowling Club (TBC) handed president Fred Goode OAM and treasurer Henry Meskauskas OAM a much-welcomed financial endowment – $2,550.
The windfall was the result of a combined fundraising effort at TBC.
“We hosted a breakfast, with egg and bacon rolls as well as sausage and steak sandwiches, a raffle and a bowls competition while the Lions’ ladies gave us 10% of their lolly sales,” secretary/manager Tracey Peterson said.
“Everyone chipped in, which was amazing.
“Steve Cornes, from 21st Century Meats at Rutherford, is a returned serviceman, who planted the seed to support the Maitland RSL sub-Branch.
“He then donated $850 worth of meat trays to raffle off.
“Our wonderful members did the rest.
“We might be a small club but Telarah residents have a big heart.
“And, with Anzac Day upon us, it only seemed fitting to assist a local not-for-profit group like the Maitland RSL sub-Branch.
“My uncle was a POW (prisoner of war), so I have a close connection to the Vets… and wanted to do something special for them.”
Mr Goode, who officiated the ceremony on Tuesday, said the Maitland organisation could not thank TBC enough.
“We’re one of the few RSL sub-branches that provide a service for veterans and their families Monday to Friday,” he told the Newcastle Weekly.
“We try to look after them as best we can.
“But, COVID-19 knocked us about over the past three years… we couldn’t fundraise during that time and we were living on air.
“So, this donation – and every dollar – is greatly appreciated.
“Any money we receive, we keep it in the Maitland area as there are always people seeking help.”
Mr Meskauskas agreed.
“We want to assist everyone in our little family,” he said.
“Supporting them is what it’s all about.”
The Maitland RSL sub-Branch is located at 3 Bulwer Street.
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- On yer marks: Hunter Sports Centre expansion begins
- Maitland City mayor defends council’s stance on Walka Water Works development
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