RSL Victoria and Woolworths launch the 2025 Poppy Appeal in Regional Victoria
Woolworths and RSL Victoria came together this week to launch this year’s Remembrance Day Poppy Appeal in regional Victoria, sharing stories across generations of veterans and their families.
With poppies, wristbands, and badges now on sale, team members at the Woolworths Echuca store received a masterclass on how to sell poppies from the town’s most experienced poppy sellers.
Mary Chandler, 96, and Marion Hooper, 89, have been selling poppies for decades on High Street Echuca. This week they went to Woolworths to raise money for the appeal and teach young Woolworths workers, Lily and Veronica, how to do it themselves.
Woolworths Echuca store manager David Elliott said they are proud to support the Appeal.
“It was fantastic having Mary and Marion at our store today,” Mr Elliott said.
“They are such a huge part of the Echuca community and seeing them share their stories and the tradition of selling poppies, particularly with our younger team members, was really special. We’re proud to be selling the poppies here, knowing every dollar goes back to support veterans and their families.”
Woolworths has been a partner of the Poppy Appeal since 2014, with around 140 stores across Australia stocking Poppies in 2025.
WIN News Victoria television, The Riverine Herald, The Shepparton News, SEN Goulburn Valley Radio and numerous other radio stations covered the launch.
Mary and Marion, widows of service veterans, were joined by local veteran and Echuca RSL Sub-Branch President Denis Shanahan who thanked them for their help over the years and discussed how funds raised from the Appeal has helped him and veterans of all generations.
Denis is currently dealing with health issues where the support of Appeal has been essential.
“I received a news of a tumour in the back of my neck, which has had me hospitalised for the last 14 months with a bad disability. Hence that’s why I’m in the wheelchair, partially funded by the Poppy Appeal.”
Denis’ plight is an example of the diverse range of services the RSL provides to veterans and their families.
“We know that the physical and mental health issues associated with service and transition to civilian life can cause serious problems at any time through a veteran’s life,” RSL Victoria Executive General Manager of Fundraising, Marketing and Communications Rebecca Berg explained.
“Buying a poppy at Woolworths or from a volunteer supports those veterans and their families affected. Funds from buying a poppy go towards providing things like emergency financial and housing assistance, advocacy for financial compensation, and social inclusion through community activities.”
“This year we have also introduced virtual poppies for sale online that allows people to dedicate a poppy in honour of someone who has served and share it with their social media network.”
Rebecca Berg, RSL Victoria
Poppies and badges for the Poppy Appeal are available at Woolworths, along with Officeworks and at RSL Sub-Branches across Victoria.
Virtual poppies are available for purchase online at poppyappeal.com.au
Author
RSL Victoria
First established in 1916, RSL Victoria’s primary objectives are to provide support to veterans and their families, acknowledge Australian Defence Force service and perpetuate its patriotic duty whilst encouraging conversation and mateship between those who have served and their communities. A crucial role of the RSL is also to appropriately commemorate those who have suffered and died in service of our nation or its allies.
