CHRISTMAS FOR THE TROOPS 2014

Christmas is fast approaching and with more than 2,200 Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel deployed overseas on operations, Australians are being asked to spare a thought for our troops who won’t be able to spend Christmas with their families and friends.

Federal Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta, said the best and most effective way to show support is to send an email message to the troops at supportthetroops@defence.gov.au, or a postcard to:

Messages to the Troops
Media Section
39 Personnel Support Battalion
Building 217
Randwick Barracks NSW 2031

“Messages are always appreciated by ADF personnel, and sending a message that simply says ‘thank you for your service’ can have a tremendous positive impact,” Mr Vasta said.

“This year I am also asking the community to consider donating to ex-service organisations such as the RSL, Legacy and Soldier On in recognition of the increasing numbers of recently returned veterans.”

“These organisations provide phenomenal support to our ADF personnel, past and present, and their families, and I strongly encourage residents in Bonner looking to make a difference in the lives of ADF personnel and veterans to consider donating to one of these excellent organisations.” 

Donations can be made to Legacy or Soldier On to support personnel who have been wounded on operations and family members who are suffering financially and socially from the death of a loved one.

For those still wishing to send a care package, the Australian Forces Post Office box address will be open from 3 November until 8 December 2014. 

An Australian Defence Member
AFPO 60
Australian Defence Force NSW 2890

All items must be submitted to an Australia Post outlet by the cut-off date of 8 December 2014.

Mr Vasta said those who wish to send a care package but are short on time may like to consider donating money to the RSL’s Australian Forces Overseas Fund.

“The RSL provides care packages to Australian troops as well as Australian Federal Police personnel biannually, and your support would contribute to this valuable programme,” Mr Vasta said.

“This Christmas I urge all Australians to again dig deep and support our serving men and women and their families whose sacrifices ensure our safety and security.”

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

How to donate to the RSL Australian Forces Overseas Fund

The RSL’s Australian Forces Overseas Fund enables the RSL to send biannual care packages to ADF members as well as Australian Federal Police personnel serving overseas. This is a great way to donate as the RSL is well equipped to provide care packages that troops not only want, but are also culturally sensitive and do not contain perishable or illegal material.

More information about the RSL’s Australian Forces Overseas Fund 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.

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