News at Upwey-Belgrave RSL

Flag Raising Ceremony

On 1st of November, we celebrated our new flag pole with a raising ceremony, attended by The Honourable James Merlino, Deputy Premier, John Cullen the Honourable State Treasurer for ANZAC house, our committee and guests. 

Security Sensors installed and Interpretive Plaques

THE Upwey-Belgrave RSL sub-branch has installed security sensors and interpretive plaques at a display of deactivated rifles and swords thanks to a generous grant. Last Thursday, La Trobe MP Jason Wood handed over $1599 to the Upwey-Belgrave RSL as part of the Australian Government initiative Saluting Their Service. The grant aims to honour the sacrifice and service of Australian •servicemen and women in wars, conflicts and peace operations and to promote appreciation and understanding of the role that those who served have played in shaping the nation.

Upwey-Belgrave RSL secretary Leigh Baker said the grant will enable the group to display the mounted firearms and swords that were donated by the HMAS Sydney, the Vietnam Logistics Support Veterans Association and another donor. “We are extremely grateful to the Federal Government for the grant as without it we simply could not have these items on display in the Running Rabbits Military Museum at the RSL.”

The weapons that are to be mounted at the RSL include a :303 rifle, the navy ceremonial officer’s sword of Allan John Rankin Watkins, a Russian 7.62mm RPK machine gun and a Japanese officer’s sword

Leigh Baker, Collection Manager – Running Rabbits Military Museum, Upwey Belgrave RSL

Front: Phil Garland and Leigh Baker, behind from left, Jason Wood,

Brlan Neal and David Eaton holding mounted weapons which are to be put on display with the money they received.

Merchant Navy Day