The RSL Mackay Sub Branch has made donations to local army, air force and navy cadet units as part of an RSL Queensland initiative to support youth development.
Every year, RSL Queensland makes funds available for youth and cadet development, distributing funds throughout the districts to be further dispersed into the community.
Mackay 122 Army Cadet Unit Commanding Officer Major John Zimmerman said the Mackay Sub Branch contacted the cadet unit giving them the opportunity to apply for a portion of those funds.
“We put in an application to the Mackay sub branch and it was received favourably at district level,” he said.
The Mackay Sub Branch then sponsored the application that was made at the district level.
Major Zimmerman said the funds will be put towards the purchase of new formal uniforms for the cadets.
“Each year, the unit has a formal night,” he said.
“The unit generally has had enough of those uniforms donated over the years, but last year, we were actually short.
“We’ve got so many people at that higher level, at the moment, that we just didn’t have enough uniforms.
“So, we thought, this year, that would be a good thing to put in for, so that we have enough uniforms for all of the people in that category to be able to come dressed in the appropriate uniform.”
Major Zimmerman said the cadets rely heavily on fundraising for these sorts of purchases and appreciate the RSL’s support.
“The fact that the RSL does make these grants available for youth development, it’s really important,” he said.
“There would be so much over the years that we simply wouldn’t have if the RSL didn’t have this youth development program.
“They (RSL) made a point of coming to ask and asking if we want to apply for the funding…They are really keen to get the money out to the cadets…and we’re most appreciative.”
A donation was also made to 105 Squadron Air Force Cadets to purchase equipment for the cadets to use in their training.
RSL Mackay Sub Branch President Ken Higgins said the sub branch are proud to support local cadets.
“The Mackay RSL continues to support all of our cadet units in Mackay and the district,” he said.
“It’s an ongoing funding that we’re very proud and happy to continue for the foreseeable future.”
Mackay RSL President Ken Higgins and Secretary Nichole Hood presented the Mackay 122 Army Cadet Unit with a donation last week
Mr Higgins and Ms Hood presented Fiona Andrews and the 105 SQN City of Mackay Air Force Cadets with a donation. Photos supplied: Graham Jackson
