Newsletter for the Rotary Club of Greater Geraldton - Issue No.: 780 Issue Date: 15 Apr, 2024

GUEST SPEAKER:

Bluey Muir formally introduced Ken Morris (RSL).

Ken is the VP of Geraldton RSL and the Board member on RSLWA representing the 13 Midwest clubs. He served in the RAAF from 1967 – 1991 after which he and wife, Jenny settled in South Greenough. They ran several small businesses until 2006 when they sold up and caravanned around Australia for four years before settling in their Holland Street unit.

The history of the RSL in WA goes back to early 1916 when the 11th Battalion Association was formed to look after the welfare of returning servicemen as they were treated poorly by authorities. This extended to the 3rd Infantry Brigade and in May, 1916 the name was altered to the Returned Soldiers’ Association and opened to all units.

The WA branch was chartered on 25th April, 1917.

PURPOSE: The RSL was founded in 1916 to provide comradeship and support to Australia’s veterans and families. The core mission has never changed but has evolved to meet the needs of each generation of servicemen and women.

City of Geraldton RSL:

The GSS&AMI Trust was formed during WW1. They initially leased the old Esplanade Hostel in Marine Terrace,now the site of the ABC.

On 25th April 1917, returned servicemen gathered at the Club Hotel (now Ocean Centre) at a reception held by the mayor. Following dinner they retired to the Smoking Room, where they formed a branch of the RSA. Capt. Robinson was elected President.

In 1934 the land on the corner of Chapman Road and Forrest St was transferred to the trust and Birdwood House was built.

The obelisk, constructed from Darling Range granite was unveiled by Lieut Govenor Sir James Mitchell on 1st September,1935.

The Cross of Sacrifice is at the Geraldton War Cemetery. Each year the City of Geraldton RSL holds a pilgrimage to the cemetery and commemorative service on the Sunday following Armistice Day followed by a lunch at Birdwood House.

There is a new plaque, replacing the old, damaged sign due to be installed at Birdwood House.

Questions followed from Doc, Dan and WXL.

Rob Houwen gave a vote of thanks.