Veterans Assist established as not-for-profit to boost support for former Great Southern military personnel

Former military personnel and their families are receiving extra assistance thanks to the establishment of a new not-for-profit organisation in Albany.

With a lease agreement for office space at the Albany Club inked last week, Veteran Assist Great Southern will hold regular social catch-ups as the Phoenix Social Club at the Albany Club and Earl of Spencer Hotel.

About 30 veterans and their family members attended the organisation’s first meeting in late March, unanimously supporting the appointment of Helen Tasker as their first chair.

Steve Morrow was also endorsed as chief operating officer and a five-person organisational committee was established.

Ms Tasker said the organisation would provide “a forum for positive and constructive conversation and social inclusion for members seeking company, welfare support and entertainment”.

She said military service was not required for membership but new members should consider “an understanding of the military, an interest in the health and wellbeing of veterans, and social inclusion”.

Ms Tasker said the new organisation respected the history and activity of the Albany RSL sub-branch and was not in competition with it.

“Veterans Assist Great Southern has identified areas where it can support veterans and their families at a regional level and provide support as needed for other not-for-profits seeking assistance with fundraising and social inclusion,” she said.

“For example, the Veterans Assist team riders and support crew contributed to the Hospice Spinathon fundraiser last month, with plans already in place to participate again next year.”

Once established, Veterans Assist hopes to develop partnerships with regional groups to boost support for veterans.