THE Loxton RSL Sub Branch celebrated its 100th anniversary in style, being awarded with a centenary certificate in honour of its long-term service to the community.
The Loxton RSL was presented with the certificate from Member for Chaffey Tim Whetstone on behalf of South Australian Premier Steven Marshall earlier this month, in addition to a certificate from RSL South Australia.
Loxton RSL Sub Branch president Rob Manuel said it was a significant achievement for the club, especially given it had to cancel most of its events for the year due to the coronavirus.
“To be around after 100 years, I think that’s a great achievement,” he said.
“There are so many RSLs that just don’t have the members anymore, (but) we’re still cruising along with just over 100 members.”
The Loxton RSL plays a vital role in commemorating Australia’s wartime history, and Mr Whetstone said he was proud to present the club with their centenary certificate in recognition of its service.
“The hard work and commitment of those involved is commendable, as is the contribution made to the ex-service and wider community,” he said.
“It is so very important that we remember those who sacrificed so much to serve in armed conflicts overseas and the Loxton RSL plays a huge part in connecting and supporting ex-servicemen and women.
“They put in a great effort to maintain their fantastic memorial room display, educating the local community about those Australians who made the ultimate sacrifice.
“It is so very important we remember those who sacrificed so much to serve in armed conflicts overseas and the Loxton RSL plays a huge part in connecting and supporting ex-servicemen and women.”
Mr Manuel said it was the RSL’s job to teach and help people remember what the diggers have done for Australians, so he hoped the branch would still be around in the next 100 years.
“I’m hoping there’s going to be enough young people who will be dedicated in keeping the memory of our World War I and World War II veterans alive,” he said.
“All of us veterans, we’re all in our seventies and eighties, and are all getting on with age.
“We do have some young veterans in the club, so hopefully they’ll be dedicated enough to keep the RSL going for another 100 years.”
There is currently no set date for the Loxton RSL’s postponed 100th anniversary celebratory dinner, but Mr Manuel said it looked likely to happen next year.