Launch of Legacy Week in South Australia

Because of physical distancing restrictions, a relatively small number of Legacy families as well as serving personnel from the Navy, Army and RAAF attended the event on 28 August.

It gave the families a chance to look around various pieces of Defence hardware, including a P-8A Poseidon aircraft, a protected mobility vehicle, an armoured personnel carrier, an Australian light armoured vehicle, and a Navy rigid hull inflatable boat.

DVA’s Janice Silby, Deputy Commissioner for South Australia, attended the event. ‘The Australian Defence Force clearly went to a lot of trouble,’ she said. ‘I was very impressed.’

Also present was the Senior ADF Officer Edinburgh Defence Precinct, Air Commodore Brendan Rogers. He said that Defence valued Legacy’s important role, and that ADF members were finding other ways to promote Legacy Week to adhere with COVID-19 restrictions. 

‘Normally the ADF supports the annual Legacy Week Appeal by selling badges and collecting donations on street corners and in shopping centres, but this year we’ve found some COVID-19 safe ways to promote the great work they do,’ he said.

Funds raised helps Legacy continue to assist about 52,000 widows, widowers and families Australia-wide by providing essential services, including counselling, special housing, medical, advocacy and social support.

President of the Legacy Club of South Australia and Broken Hill Chris Burns said it was important to have Defence involved this year.

‘It’s the first time in 76 years – since 1944 – that we can’t fundraise face-to-face. We’re asking the community to dig deep this year and support the important work we do for the families of our veterans.’

Legacy Week took place from 30 August to 5 September. But you can still donate via Legacy’s donation portal or buy merchandise from its online shop.

Deputy Commissioner for South Australia, Janice Silby with the ADF Legacy Bears. Photo: Department of Defence.