War Widows Program - Families of Veterans Guild

South Australia Update

Kelly Taylor — Thu, 14 May 2026 01:00:29 +0000

What is happening now for SA war widows

A warm and special welcome to the more than 50 War Widow South Australia (SA)members who have joined us since the start of the year. We are so pleased to have you with us and look forward to welcoming many more of you over the coming months.

We have now completed the transition phase and have commenced operations in SA, offering support, connection, and wellbeing services to SA based War Widows and Veteran Families.

The establishment of these services signal a new start for SA war widows. We are proud to continue the work of War Widows SA and ensure that War Widows remain a fundamental part of the veteran eco-system in SA.

There is a thriving community of war widows and veteran families in SA, and we are excited to bring our services and support to this region. We are grateful for the war widows in SA for trusting us with their Legacy.

What this means for SA widows

Now that transition is complete, this means former War Widows SA members will continue to have access to:

Continued connection: SA war widows will keep meeting, with support from the Guild’s team and local volunteers.

Access to services: all SA war widows and veteran families can join the Guild’s online activities and access social work services, including wellbeing support, advocacy, and information.

Membership: if individuals were a member of War Widows SA, membership can transition to the Guild free for the first 12months. Life Members will retain their status.

Monthly meetings of the War Widows Social Club in SA are set to recommence from May 2026. To find out more or if you are a war widow in SA and would like to connect with the social club, please call us or email: warwidows@fov.org.au.

Visit our SA web page

Our dedicated welcome page for South Australian war widows and veteran families. It explains the transition from Australian War Widows SA, the support you can access today — online activities, social work, and our resource hub — and answers to frequently asked questions about membership and entitlements.

The post South Australia Update first appeared on Families of Veterans Guild.

74th ANZAC Field of Remembrance

Kelly Taylor — Wed, 06 May 2026 04:58:41 +0000

Honouring service & sacrifice: widows & families at the centre of remembrance

On the morning of 23 April, we gathered once again to do what war widows and veteran families have done for 74 years: remember their loved one, their own way.

The 74th annual ANZAC Field of Remembrance was held at St Andrew’s Cathedral in Sydney, where 140 guests came together in person ahead of ANZAC Day. Many more joined us through the live stream, with members gathering in Coffs Harbour, Albury, Laurieton, and Yass, while others watched from homes across the country. No matter where we were, we were united in the same act of remembrance.

To step inside the Cathedral that morning was to step into a place quieter than the world outside — a solemn space warmed by the company of women who understand one another without needing words. As members described it, the morning feels “almost out of this world,” or “spectacular, uplifting.” For the women who attend every year — some travelling great distances — this is the most important day of the year.

The service was led by Master of Ceremonies Sarah L, who understands loss and sacrifice intimately following the loss of her partner Alexander, in 2023—an understanding that bound her to the women sitting in the pews. The service delivered its familiar proceedings, until the moment awaited by all, and the heart of this unique service: the laying of tributes in remembrance of loved ones.

The laying of the crosses is the moment the morning turned. After official crosses were laid by dignitaries, the service focus turned to the women who created it. War widows stepped forward, each laying a tribute for each conflict Australia was involved in, from the First World War to Afghanistan. Beside each woman stood a child, a grandchild or a great-grandchild of a veteran, carrying a sprig of wattle to place alongside the cross. Watching generations of widows and families laying tributes side by side is a bittersweet reminder that service and sacrifice is carried across generations, and a hope that our veterans’ sacrifices will never be forgotten.

Following them, every war widow in attendance stepped forward and laid their own tribute. By the time they reached the Field, their crosses were inscribed with names of veterans and personal messages, drawings, rosemary, or flowers — a whole life carried onto the crosses that were held on tightly, kissed and laid with a mix of pride and sadness.

At that moment, the Cathedral falls still. An indescribable emotion fills the room and holds everyone in. As war widows lay their tribute, the space swells with love, grief, sadness and a pride that belongs only to our war widows. It is a moment that allows them to grieve and to honour in their own way, alongside others who need no explanation. When speaking of the service, our war widows reach for words to describe it. “I don’t know exactly what it is,” Mary P says. “It’s remembrance.”

The Field grew further still as families and members of the congregation were invited forward to lay their own tribute in remembrance of a veteran they love. Formality resumed and the service closed with a deeply moving reading of the poem The Silent Ranks, delivered by Sue D and her grandson, Angus — a tribute to all those who stand beside and behind our veterans, in service and in loss.

Reflecting on the day, members described what it means to them. Jenny W shared, “it means everything to me… I get teary honouring not just our men, but ourselves for what we do.” Looking across the Field of crosses, Lynne B reflects: “they’re still in our hearts no matter what.” When asked what makes this service unique, Jackie C said, “it is more intimate, especially for war widows.”

This year, as our organisation marks 80 years, the ANZAC Field of Remembrance stands as a testament to what we have always known: that remembrance is not a single day. For war widows who miss their veteran, they remember every day.

The crosses laid that morning did not remain only within the Cathedral walls. From the following day, they were displayed at the Anzac Memorial in Hyde Park, where the broader community could see the Field, the tributes, and the names of those who may not have made it to an honour roll — and where war widows’ and families’ loss, grief and sacrifice were in view, for all to acknowledge and understand a little deeper, during ANZAC Day and beyond.

To make the service as accessible to all in our community, regardless of location and availability, once again the ANZAC Field of Remembrance was recorded and can be watched on our Youtube.

[See image gallery at familiesofveterans.org.au]

The post 74th ANZAC Field of Remembrance first appeared on Families of Veterans Guild.

Update on War Widows South Australia

Caroline Kirche — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 19:58:56 +0000

The Families of Veterans Guild is proud to support South Australia’s war widows and veteran families. Our utmost priority is ensuring their wellbeing by providing the advocacy, connection and social work support programs they deserve and rely on.

Reflecting this, we are very disappointed that South Australian war widows are being used, without their consent, as part of the East Resident’s Group campaign in Rose Park. We have been working diligently to ensure impacted war widows have access to support, but remain concerned about the welfare, wellbeing and safety impact this activity is having on them.

We value our relationship with ACH which provides vital accommodation services to South Australia’s war widows. We recognise this new development is necessary because existing facilities are no longer suitable for the evolving needs of older residents, including the war widows who reside there.

We are pleased that alongside these developments ACH is committed to maintaining the deep connection local war widows have with Rose Park by providing a new purpose-built meeting hall and office at no cost. We are also pleased that the historic Vasey House will be restored as part of the development, honouring the legacy of our founder Ms Jessie Vasey CBE OBE.

Our focus remains on protecting war widows’ wellbeing and ensuring they receive the modern, respectful housing they have earned through their and their veterans’ service.”

We do not own or manage the Rose Park site. Questions specifically relating to the redevelopment of the Rose Park site are best directed to ACH Group.

The post Update on War Widows South Australia first appeared on Families of Veterans Guild.

Update on War Widows South Australia

Kelly Taylor — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 02:49:34 +0000

Our work to expand war widows service to South Australia, is well progressed with membership transition well underway and services set to recommence early in 2026. Initial service delivery will focus on social connection, wellbeing activities, and peer support for war widows.

Over the course of 2026 we will also be building and reaffirming relationships with key stakeholders who have supported war widows in South Australia since their establishment in 1946. One critical relationship that War Widows South Australia holds is with the ACH Group, who has provided accommodation services to war widows since 2005.

A longstanding relationship with ACH Group

We have inherited the 20-year relationship with ACH Group on behalf of War Widows South Australia. That relationship commenced in 2005, when War Widows SA sought to gift their property in return for accommodation services, maintenance and upkeep.

The current War Widows site in Rose Park was gifted to ACH Group following a community expression‑of‑interest process undertaken by War Widows SA. In 2005 an agreement was reached under which ACH would provide accommodation services to war widows in return for the property owned by War Widows SA, an arrangement that has operated continuously since that time. This arrangement was formally endorsed by the members of War Widows SA through a Special Resolution passed on 1 April 2005.

Since that time, ACH Group has met their obligations under the 2005 agreement and the services they provide to war widows are intended to continue into the future.

Current arrangements and future planning with ACH

Following the wind‑up of War Widows SA, the previous agreement governing access to the War Widows Hall at Rose Park no longer applies. As a result, a new agreement is required.

We are currently working with ACH Group to establish a new lease arrangement. This will facilitate access to the existing War Widows Hall at Rose Park, as well as a new meeting space planned for later in the year.

We are also aware that ACH Group is also progressing plans to redevelop the Rose Park site. As part of this redevelopment, ACH is building new accommodation for war widows, including a new meeting space to support ongoing social connection, community engagement and peer support.

While plans were already well progressed by the time the Guild was appraised of them, we were briefed on the redevelopment plans in October 2025 and ACH’s approach to supporting and accommodating war widows. Based on current discussions, we understand that ACH intends to continue providing accommodation services to local war widows and provide a place for widows to gather.

Preserving history and legacy

In addition to providing accommodation and meeting facilities, we are talking with ACH Group about ways to honour and preserve the heritage of the Rose Park site. This includes ensuring the history and legacy of the War Widows association in South Australia is respected and maintained as part of future development.

We do not own or manage the Rose Park site. Questions specifically relating to the redevelopment of the Rose Park site are best directed to ACH Group.

Looking ahead

By expanding into South Australia, the Families of Veterans Guild is continuing the vision and mission inspired by Jessie Vasey CBE OBE— ensuring war widows are supported, connected and remembered.

This expansion reflects our longstanding commitment to ensuring no war widow is left without support, regardless of where they live. As the oldest and largest remaining war widows’ organisation in Australia, the Guild is committed to honouring the legacy of war widows’ associations while providing contemporary support services that meet current and future needs.

The post Update on War Widows South Australia first appeared on Families of Veterans Guild.

War Widows Social Club Christmas gatherings

Kelly Taylor — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 03:41:59 +0000

As the year is wrapping up, war widow social clubs have been celebrating the Christmas season with club lunches that bring members together for good food and great company as one last celebration together for 2025. These gatherings are a tradition that keeps friendships strong as members close the year with a final festive celebration, reminding us why connection matters during the holidays. Throughout late November and recent weeks of December, there have been a variety of gatherings to celebrate. Here are some of the highlights from the gatherings.

Bay and Basins

On 9 December, ten ladies met at Pelican Rocks for a seafood lunch that was, in their words, “absolutely fantastic.” The meals were nothing less than appreciated, so much so there was no need for doggy bags, a first for the group! But the real highlight of this gathering was the surprise birthday moment for one of the ladies, Nancy. Since the club’s next meeting is not until later in January, celebrating Nancy’s soon to be birthday at the gathering felt appropriate. With an unexpected sign, candles and ice cream appearing, Nancy looked around trying to figure out who’s birthday it was, only to discover it was an early surprise dedicated to her. It was recalled being a wholesome moment for the group, Nancy’s shock being unforgettable. The birthday surprise was of course mixed with more festivity, with the Coordinator Maureen thoughtfully bringing homemade slices of Christmas-themed cake for everyone, an act she’s known to do throughout the years to those who have supported her.

City Saturday Club

Held at their Coordinator Lynne’s home, the City Saturday Clubs annual Christmas celebration this year turned into an unforgettable moment for one of the ladies present, Mary. Surrounded by 22 friends in a warm, laughter filled setting, Mary was stunned when Lynne presented her with a Life Membership certificate, an honour usually reserved for our Annual General Meeting that Mary was unfortunately unable to receive earlier this year. Lynne so kindly volunteered to present it to Mary at the clubs Christmas gathering. “The look on her face was magic,” one member said, as the group could feel nothing but proud of Mary. All present collectively agreed that Mary deserved it more than anything from her decades of selflessness and resilience. Her peers agreed: Mary lives the Guild’s Motto. Her kindness and humour have touched every life in that room.

The Entrance and Long Jetty

This was the biggest gathering of the season, with 31 attendees including guests from Toukley, Woy Woy, Swansea and Ettalong. Board Member Lyn Bye joined the day along with an RSL representative. There were speeches, recitations of the Ode and Motto, and of course bon bons cracked. As one member summed it up, “everything went beautifully.”

Muswellbrook

Six ladies met at Muswellbrook Workers Club on 17 November for a lunch of baked dinner and sticky date pudding. The tables were decorated with Santa’s and candles as well as two items from members that had recently passed in the club to honour them and still have them present in spirit. It had been such a brilliant day for the ladies, getting lost in the time from “chatting and carrying on for hours”, “everyone went home so full they needed to put their feet up.” as one member said.

Other festive lunches

Wollongong ladies gathered at their local sports club with gifts of shortbread biscuits and chocolates. Northern Beaches Club enjoyed the most beautiful ocean-view lunch at Long Reef Golf Club with decorations and bon bons. Clarence Valley ladies met at Vines with a decorated table and gifts to pick from for every attendee, and Port Macquarie Club continued its tradition at Settlers Inn with gifts for all. Each lunch was well received and could not be described as anything less than a “great way to end the year” with connection and a chance to catch up and celebrate together.

Guild social clubs have existed for decades to make sure no war widow faces life alone. Christmas is a season that embodies the gift of giving and sharing, making social connection a must in all communities at this time. Everyone should be able to enter the new year with companionship and practical support, something these clubs have and will always offer for all war widows.

To join a War Widows Social Club or to find a club near you, view our War Widows Programs page and use our handy interactive map to locate clubs in your area. Alternatively, reach out to us at warwidows@fov.org.au for any support regarding clubs or call the office at 02 9267 6577.

The post War Widows Social Club Christmas gatherings first appeared on Families of Veterans Guild.

City Saturday Social Club Christmas gathering

Kelly Taylor — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 05:00:39 +0000

Celebrating a special member at the City Saturday Social Club

Every year, the Coordinator of the City Saturday Club, Lynne, hosts a Christmas get-together at her home that allows war widows from both her club and other clubs to gather and celebrate the season. It’s a tradition Lynne has proudly maintained for over 15 years. This year, however, the occasion carried an extra layer of meaning as members came together to honour one of the City Saturdays Club members, Mary, presenting her with her Life Membership certificate.

Whilst Mary was originally meant to receive the certificate at our Annual General Meeting earlier this year, Lynne and the ladies present were able to present it on behalf of the Board, turning the already special Christmas gathering into a special surprise for Mary. The Guild’s Life Memberships are presented every year by our Board Chair at our AGM and are awarded to honour members who have shown exceptional commitment and service. It is considered a significant accolade within the organisation, and is such an admirable achievement that reflects dedication and is highly valued by members of the Guild.

With a few recipients chosen every year, the awardees are chosen carefully, and the process takes lots of thought. Member and war widow Mary was one of the distinguished ladies to receive a Life Membership this year. Lynne volunteered to surprise Mary and present the award at her November Christmas gathering.

Around 22 ladies attended the celebration held at Lynne’s home, including members from the City Saturday Club and some of the Younger Members’ Club. The ladies present were aware of what was to come, all except Mary herself, trying to contain the excitement to see Mary’s reaction to the unexpected award. The lunch prepared by Lynne involved a hearty baked dinner paired with a relaxed and joyful atmosphere. “All you can hear is talking and laughing”, Lynne said.

In the midst of the festivities and chatter, Lynne was able to say some special words before presenting Mary with her Life Membership certificate. “The look on her face was magic”, member Jenny said. The moment was personal, surrounded by all of her closest friends and Lynne’s family, including her dog Bunny that Lynne is amused to admit ‘guards’ Mary. Mary was genuinely surprised and moved by the gesture. Everyone was thrilled to see her receive the certificate, this group having known Mary for so long and collectively agreeing that she deserved this. She has moved the hearts of so many, even Bunny, Lynne’s loyal dachshund!

Mary’s inspiring contribution to the Guild and her peers

Mary embodies the spirit of our organisation, and lives by the Guilds Motto. She has always given generously of her time and energy, contributing in countless ways. She can be described as an incredibly selfless, strong woman. “She’s gone through hard times and still thinks about other people. She deserved it.” Jenny shared. “She deserves it. She is the true epitome of a war widow. Always giving, contributing in all ways – I couldn’t think of anyone else that deserves it more than her.” Mary is one of a kind, able to make others laugh due to her ability to see the humour in life, and her most memorable trait being her selflessness, giving without ever expecting anything in return.

Her resilience, kindness, and commitment have made her an inspiration to many of her peers. Lynne recalls being instantly drawn to Mary’s manner when they first met years ago, a sentiment echoed by all who know her. “Everyone that meets Mary falls in love with her.”

Each attendee could recall something Mary has done or said that has affected them positively. Since meeting decades ago, these friendships have lasted for so long due to actions like these. Selflessness, kindness, and living the Motto the way Mary does.

[See image gallery at familiesofveterans.org.au]

The post City Saturday Social Club Christmas gathering first appeared on Families of Veterans Guild.