ANZAC DAY FOR THE TROOPS 2015
On 25 April, Australians will commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the Gallipoli landings during the First World War and honour the sacrifices of those service personnel who helped forge our national identity.
This Anzac Day Australians are also being asked to spare a thought for our current serving personnel and recently returned veterans who have served on operational service overseas.
Federal Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta, said it is as important to commemorate the ongoing work of the men and women who continue to serve and represent our nation abroad today as it is to commemorate the acts and deeds of those present at the Gallipoli landings.
“It is important to honour and support the current generation of Australian Defence Force (ADF) members and veterans who have served on our behalf in what are often complex, challenging and extremely dangerous environments,” Mr Vasta said.
“In recognition and gratitude for the service of our current personnel, I encourage Bonner residents to consider donating to ex-service organisations such as the RSL, Legacy and Soldier On.”
“These excellent organisations provide phenomenal support to our ADF personnel, past and present, and their families.”
“The service of Australia’s military personnel is rightly revered by the community and I urge everyone to show their support this Anzac Day.”
Donations can be made to Legacy (www.legacy.com.au) or Soldier On (www.soldieron.org.au) in support of those personnel who have been wounded on operations, and those family members who are suffering financially and socially from the death of a loved one.
Messages of support can also be emailed to serving personnel at supportthetroops@defence.gov.au.
For those still wishing to send a care package, the Australian Forces Post Office box address below will be open until 13 April 2015:
An Australian Defence Member
AFPO 60
Australian Defence Force NSW 2890
Those who are short on time can still help by donating to the RSL’s Australian Forces Overseas Fund. Which can be found by going to www.rsl.org.au – then click on the “Supporting ADF Personnel” link and then on the “RSL Australian Forces Overseas Fund” link. This page also includes a link to a donation form. Donations over $2 are tax deductable and every donation is individually acknowledged by the RSL.
What can be included in care packages
Be creative with donations while being mindful of Australia Post’s guidelines for the free delivery of care packages. Some suggestions are listed below, as are the general restrictions. It is recommended that any donated goods collected by EOs, and which are unable to be sent due to size or weight, be donated to local charities.
Food
– Anzac biscuits
– Salted peanuts
– Muesli bars
– Instant noodles
– Lollies
– Small tinned consumables
– Other commercially manufactured and packaged foods that are non-perishable
Other ideas
– Magazines
– Puzzle books
– DVDs
– Socks
– Letters of support
– Posters and letters from school children
– Stamped, self-addressed envelope – this way personnel can thank you for the package
Toiletries
– Deodorant (non-aerosol)
– Shaving cream (non-aerosol)
– Small bottle of talcum powder
– Disposable razors
– Shower Gel
– Lip Balm
What not to include
– Pornographic material
– Alcoholic beverages
– Any food prepared or cooked at home, including cakes and biscuits
– Clothing (except socks)
– Pork products
– Cigarettes
– Perfumery products