Benalla RSL gets new Aussie flag ahead of annual Anzac Appeal

By Simon Ruppert

Mar 10, 2023

Patriotic: Former state Member for Benalla Bill Sykes (third from left) with Benalla RSL sub-branch members Eugene Hodson, Tom Heaney, Athol Graham, Betty Hodson, Ted Polkinghorne and Doug Williams. Photo by Simon Ruppert

Former state Member for Benalla Bill Sykes was at the local RSL rooms on Friday, March 10, to deliver a new Australian flag donated by Federal Senator for Victoria Bridget McKenzie.

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RSL members were delighted to receive it and wanted to use the publicity to remind the community about the upcoming Anzac Appeal.

RSL sub-branch member Tom Heaney said it was great to get the new flag.

“We find that they don’t last very long these days and end up just about see through. So we’re very proud to be able to fly the new one,” Mr Heaney said.

“I’d like to thank Bill and Bridget, we appreciate this very much. It’s very important to have a good flag to honour our veterans.”

Dr Sykes said he was pleased to be able to present a flag to Benalla RSL members on behalf of Senator McKenzie.

“Both Bridget and I have a strong sense of gratitude and indebtedness to our service men and women,” Dr Sykes said.

“And to come along and have a cuppa and a chat with our local RSL members is not a bad way to spend a Friday morning.”

The annual Anzac Appeal starts on April 3 in Benalla and carries through to the 25th.

“We’ll be out in Benalla selling badges,” Mr Heaney said.

“And different companies such as LS Pre-cast and Schneider have requested a box.

“So people can buy a badge and support the appeal at work.”

Benalla RSL members will be selling badges outside Millers and Carlisle Art on Bridge St East; outside the Benalla West Post Office on Bridge St West and outside the Benalla Grocer on the corner of Clarke and Waller Sts from April 3.