The Anzac Appeal and the power of community

This Anzac Day, their work will again be in the spotlight thanks to a continuing partnership with the Victoria Racing Club, which generously supports Watsonia RSL’s fundraising for the Anzac Appeal. 

“The VRC has given us an amazing opportunity,” says Anna Dalakis, Veteran and Community Support/Appeals Coordinator at Watsonia RSL. “They’ve always been so supportive. We’re able to sell badges and pins on course on Anzac Day and Remembrance Day, and we often send a group of volunteers who get to enjoy a day at Flemington in return.” 

It’s a day of service with a unique reward – the atmosphere of Flemington and the gratitude of a community. And it pays off. “We usually raise between $10,000 and $15,000, which goes directly to the Anzac Appeal, which is a veterans support fund that helps deliver real outcomes for real people,” Dalakis says. 

Connecting veterans through shared experiences 

One of the most tangible outcomes is RSL Active, a program that brings veterans and their families together through social and recreational activities. 

“Many veterans move every two- or three-years during service, so when they leave, they often don’t have a strong local network,” Dalakis explains.

“RSL Active helps bridge that gap. It’s not just about getting out and doing something fun – it’s about building friendships, community and connection.” 

Activities range from go-karting and indoor archery to iFly and Urban Surf sessions – all designed to foster wellbeing and inclusion, often with partners or children involved. 

“We also offer a meal at the RSL, and people connect there, as well. It’s the beginning of creating a community,” Dalakis says.  

Honouring the missing 

Watsonia RSL also supports the remarkable work of Fallen Diggers Incorporated, a volunteer group dedicated to locating and identifying the 30,000 Australian military personnel from the First and Second World Wars who still have no known grave. 

“These volunteers do everything from archival research to archaeological digs, working with state and federal governments,” Dalakis explains. “We’ve helped fund trips to France and Gallipoli, or contributed to excavation costs – whatever helps give families closure.” 

She recalls the poignant story of a veteran who spent many years searching for his brother, missing in war. “They finally found his remains, and were able to notify the family. The surviving brother passed away just weeks later, but he finally had the answer he’d waited for.” 

Real support for real people 

Closer to home, Watsonia RSL is deeply engaged in veteran and family wellbeing, supporting those who may be facing challenges like unemployment, mental health issues or homelessness. Through links with organisations like Open Arms and Vasey RSL Care, they act as connectors – helping veterans navigate systems, secure housing or simply access a local GP for the first time. 

“A lot of people come to us having never had to organise things for themselves – in service, so much is done for you,” Dalakis explains. “We help them find the tools they need to transition.” 

From advocacy with DVA to short-term accommodation through The V Centre, the goal is stability and dignity. Volunteers – including students studying wellbeing or counselling – provide a supportive presence, while local connections lead to work opportunities with businesses like Eastlink. 

There’s also practical community support – from mowing lawns and checking on groceries for older veterans, to sponsoring local sports clubs with service members in their ranks. “It’s about helping people feel like they’re still part of something, still valued,” Dalakis says. 

Lest We Forget 

As we near April 25, Dalakis reflects on what Anzac Day means beyond the parades and ceremonies. 

“During peacetime, awareness can slip away. But it’s always important. Anzac Day is a time to reflect not just on what’s been done in the past, but what is still being done every day – by our veterans, by their families, and by the communities who support them.” 

At Flemington and beyond, the badge sellers, volunteers and quiet workers at places like Watsonia RSL remind us that remembrance is not just about history – it’s about how we honour that history in our actions today.