Sunraysia RSL Sub-Branches unite to strengthen veteran support across the region
Red Cliffs-Irymple, Merbein, and Robinvale RSL Sub-Branches today announced their intent to join with Mildura RSL Sub-Branch and create a new regional model of veteran support and commemoration for the Sunraysia region.
This decision will ensure all veterans and their families in the region have access to consistent and high-quality support services and continue ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day commemoration events in those four communities, while preserving important historical sites like the Red Cliff – Irymple Military Museum.
Under the new model the three smaller sites would formally unite with Mildura RSL Sub-Branch while maintaining a local presence in their communities. ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day services would continue to be held in Red Cliffs-Irymple, Merbein, and Robinvale, supported by the resources and capacity of Mildura RSL Sub-Branch.
The concept was brought to Mildura RSL Sub-Branch by Peter Fleming of Red Cliff – Irymple RSL following discussions between the smaller Sub-Branches about their long-term sustainability.
“We all face similar challenges as smaller Sub-Branches in smaller regional towns,” Mr Fleming said.
“We need to ask ourselves what is the succession plan for attracting new volunteers to lead our Sub-Branch? How do we deal with demographics shifts that see veteran families gravitating towards large regional centres? Most importantly, how do ensure veterans right across the Sunraysia region receive the best possible support, no matter where they live?”
Mr Fleming said the change would ease the growing administrative burden on volunteers and allow local members to focus on what matters most.
“It will allow us to focus on commemoration education and community engagement, while working collaboratively with veteran advocates in Mildura instead of struggling to form standalone veteran-led committees and meet increasing regulatory requirements,” he said.
“RSL Victoria has supported us collectively as we have progressed the concept.”
The move formalises the regional veteran support network already operating under the leadership of Mildura RSL Sub-Branch and seeks to deliver a more coordinated approach to supporting veterans and their families across the entire region.
Mildura RSL Sub-Branch President Brad McGlashan said it represented a practical and forward-thinking response to changing circumstances.
“Our Sub-Branches across the region are valued pillars of our community.
“However, demographic changes have created sustainability challenges for many smaller Sub-Branches. This is a sensible and proactive solution that strengthens veteran support while preserving the unique identity and heritage of our soldier settlement communities.
“We support the concept philosophically and have the financial and operational capacity to help make it successful.”
A coordinated veteran support pilot has started between the group under the direction of Paul Mensch, Manager of Veteran Services at Mildura RSL Sub-Branch, with encouraging outcomes.
The model continues to be refined with plans to be formalised before the end of 2026.
“We congratulate all the Sub-Branches involved for working collaboratively to address their challenges and placing veteran wellbeing at the forefront,” said Sue Cattermole, CEO of RSL Victoria.
“RSL Victoria has supported the Sub-Branches with this process throughout implementation.”
“This proactive approach strongly aligns with the RSL Victoria Transformation Project which is focused on modernising our organisation to better support veterans and their families.”
“This innovative model could provide valuable lessons for other regions across Victoria facing similar challenges and opportunities.”
To hear from Mildura, Red Cliffs-Irymple, Merbein, and Robinvale RSL Sub-Branch Presidents about their decision to unite and strengthen veteran support and advocacy, please watch the video HERE.
