Our History
The Australian Imperial Service of Women’s Auxiliary was formed in Phillip Street Sydney by mothers, wives, widows, sisters, daughters and aunts of men who served in the Australian Imperial Forces in the First World War (1914-1918). The auxiliaries grew from this beginning to raise money for the welfare of men and women who served and their widows and families. In 1947, at the Annual State Congress of The Returned and Services League of Australia (NSW Branch) (RSL NSW), a Resolution was formed that an Annual Congress of all Women’s Auxiliaries be convened under the auspices of the RSL.
On 18 August 1948 Mr. K. Todd OBE, Country Vice-President of RSL NSW held the first Returned and Services League Women’s Auxiliary Congress at the Young Women’s Christian Association, Liverpool Street, Sydney. There were 140 auxiliaries in attendance from all over NSW, approximately 3,110 members. The first president was Mrs K Todd (1948-1949), Metropolitan Vice-President, Mrs Pat Maitland, State Treasurer Mrs M. Hawkins and Mrs Gwen Richards as State Secretary.
The RSL Auxiliary is a non-political non-sectarian organisation. We raise funds for the wellbeing of our current and ex-serving members of the Australian Defence Force and their families. Also we visit the sick in hospital and those convalescing at home. We raise funds to support the RSL Welfare and Benevolent Institution by holding raffles, selling tokens during the ANZAC and Poppy Appeals, as well as other fundraising avenues that arise throughout the year in their local sub-Branch area.
RSL Auxiliaries were founded on fellowship and a desire to care for our communities. This continues to exist to this day. Members enjoy the friendship of like-minded women, visiting other auxiliaries when they hold functions, and being able to share our ideas and ideals. We are a voluntary organisation, dedicated to raising funds for the welfare of veterans of all wars and conflicts. Eligibility of membership is open to any woman over 16 years of age. Encouraging membership is the future of the auxiliaries to carry on this good work for years to come. Many present members have been in the Auxiliary for over 50 years, a lifetime of devotion to welfare of veterans.
Our Aim
To support the RSL Sub Branch and the Veteran Community. It is a myth that our association is a “Ladies Sewing or Knitting Group”, in fact, we are an integral part of the RSL. We come under the RSL Sub-Branch and we are governed by By-Law 6 of the RSL (Qld) State Rules.
Welfare
Welfare is a major part of each auxiliary. The welfare of its members, the veteran community and the community at large, youth and the serving military are of particular importance.
Feel Rewarded and Valued
Being a member of the RSL Women’s Auxiliary is a rewarding experience, it brings new friends, new ideals and a great deal of satisfaction. RSL Women’s Auxiliaries have been running for over 90 years, and need new members to continue their welfare and community work.
When do we meet?
Bribie Island Women’s Auxiliary meets on the 2nd Monday of each month, except January and raise money in various ways, our main fund raiser being Bingo. We also organize outings, bus trips, have BBQ’s, luncheons and functions for our members.
Any woman who upholds the values of the RSL is eligible to become a member. There is no need to have a military or service background to join.
If you are wanting to meet new friends, would like to donate your time to a very worthy cause, want to feel a sense of fulfilment and satisfaction, please do not hesitate to contact the Secretary, Gayle Bradshaw, the Secretary at womensauxiliary.bribie@gmail.com
We are looking for women to join the RSL Women's Auxiliary. This could be what you are looking for. We have been around since World War 1, when the women of Australia, sewed, knitted and cooked to send parcels to the troops.
When the boys came home, they continued their support of fundraising and assisting to buy land, buildings, furnishings for the RSL.
Many RSL Sub Branches would not be where they are today without the support of their Auxiliary. If you are interested in volunteering and joining, please contact us.
Meet The Women's Auxiliary
President - Annette Shew
Vice President - Kay Batt
Vice President - Ann Wainwright
Secretary/Treasurer - Gayle Bradshaw
Committee - Val Franklin
