At the Rooty Hill RSL Club formed by the returned servicemen in 1937, now known as West HQ, the traditional ‘two up’ with ex-NRL league star Wendell Sailor, pictured opening the Two-Up, is among events raising funds for Legacy families.
Legacy Sydney president Ian Thompson said they were “so grateful for the generosity shown by Rooty Hill RSL in leading the fundraising for Legacy” with $1 dollar going to hundreds of families from sales at functions this ANZAC Day.
“Their donation directly impacts the lives of veterans' families in our community. Every dollar raised goes towards providing crucial support and services to those who have sacrificed so much for our country,” Mr Thompson said.
“These funds enable us to continue our mission of supporting Legacy families Without the dedication of fundraisers like Rooty Hill RSL, we wouldn't be able to carry out our vital work.”
Legacy NSW has recently added 12 widows and their children who are from the Western Sydney region to the list of hundreds of veterans’ families they have been assisting with a range of support services such as expenses on education, groceries, bills and health needs.
Mr Thompson said Legacy has been focused on “helping out widows and families facing the current high cost of living that's why we're committed to providing support where it's needed most.”
“We offer food vouchers to eligible beneficiaries who are struggling to cover grocery bills, helping to alleviate the financial burdens these families may be experiencing.
“During the festive season, we distributed Christmas hampers to offer a small token of financial relief and bring some joy to the families we support. Looking after our beneficiaries during times of economic strain is our top priority.”
Mr Thompson said their tireless volunteers, known as Legatees, play a crucial role in providing personalised care and assistance to the veterans’ families tailored to the needs of each family.
Whether it's helping household bills, arranging transport to medical appointments or simply offering a listening ear, the organisation ensures Legacy families receive the support they deserve, Mr Thompson said.
Mr Thompson said Legacy was established as a charity in 1923 to fulfill a promise made from one digger to another which is what Legacy NSW stands for, “to look after the missus and the kids” when they’ve gone in the line of duty.
West HQ chief executive officer Richard Errington said for the past 60 years West HQ has been supporting the community, particularly those who have served for the country.
“This has included the commemoration of Aussie Diggers by holding two-up in the venue for more than 40 years to mark a shared experience with our soldiers,” Mr Errington said.
“We have been part of the Western Sydney community since 1964 when Rooty Hill RSL was established and while we have evolved the business and changed our name to West HQ transforming from a “local club” to a destination it is important for us to continue to be relevant and supportive of the local community.”
“With this year being our sixtieth year of operation, we are looking forward to having one our biggest ever day of remembrance and commemoration, with a host of activities for all the family to enjoy.”
Local Rooty Hill digger, Alf Davey, conscripted as a 19-year-old in 1969, and President of the Rooty Hill RSL sub-branch located within West HQ, said he was thrilled to see the venue once again bringing the community together on this special day.
“This venue holds a very special place in the heart of many diggers from the local area and it is great to see West HQ continue its heritage to commemorate this important day,” Mr Davey said.
“What’s more, we are pleased that they will again be supporting Legacy, with $1 from every beer sold on the day being donated to this important organisation that supports families of service men and women, whose lives have been impacted by war.”
