More Active Than Ever 

2024 saw veterans and their families more active than ever before, thanks to RSL Victoria’s RSL Active program.

RSL Active is a free program designed for veterans, first responders and their families to connect and improve their physical and mental well-being through a range of activities and events.

Throughout the year, we brought you stories and updates about RSL Active from around Victoria. At least 27 Sub-Branches hosted regular activities including art classes, walking groups and fitness sessions. But there were often one-off events too, which this year included activities like tenpin bowling and a visit to Penrite Racing, where veterans were able to get up close to the racing cars and talk to the drivers.

The first half of this year got off to a solid start, with a 55 per cent increase to the average number of event participants, while activity attendance increased by almost 30 per cent in the same period.

The program welcomed over a thousand participants over the year, and more than half were under the age of 50 – an increase of about 20%.

“One of the biggest highlights of the year is that RSL Active is now in every region, with Frankston RSL also getting on board this year. That means veterans and their families have greater access to our free program regardless of their postcode,” said Salina Parton, RSL Active Program Officer.

Frankston launched their RSL Active program on 19 October with an event at the Le Mans Go Kart Track, where veterans, first responders and their families were welcome.

“The objective was for veterans to enjoy a day out designed to beat social isolation. As family members were welcome, it made for an inclusive and great bonding event, as well as a wonderful opportunity to meet new veterans from different areas of Victoria,” said Tony Grice, Frankston RSL’s Welfare Officer and Senior Advocate.

There are already activities planned for Frankston next year, including a motorbike ride to Philip Island.

A further eight Sub-Branches have indicated they are planning to roll out the program in 2025 and Salina is focused on an even bigger and better program.

“In an effort to foster a more inclusive environment within the veteran and service community, and to address the unique challenges faced by service women, in 2025 RSL Active is broadening its initiative, particularly focusing on programs centred around women,” said Salina.