Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.7.2, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Families of Veterans Guild ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Online decluttering workshop for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/decluttering-workshop-veteran-families/) - Join our online decluttering workshop, Thurs 10 September. War widows, defence and veteran families welcome for practical tips from home. Free, adults only. - [Wellbeing walk and lunch for Canberra veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-walk-and-lunch-veteran-families/) - Join our wellbeing walk and lunch in Belconnen, 21 August. War widows, defence and veteran families welcome for a lakeside stroll and lunch. Free, all welcome. - [Nervous system regulation for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/nervous-system-regulation-veteran-families/) - Join our nervous system regulation workshop in Belmont, Mon 10 August. War widows, defence and veteran families welcome to reset and find calm. Free. - [Exhibition at Geelong Gallery for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/geelong-gallery-veteran-families/) - Join our first Geelong wellbeing activity — an Impressionists gallery walk, Mon 10 August. War widows, defence and veteran families welcome. Free, all welcome. - [Share your story: 80 years of war widows and veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/share-your-story-80-years-war-widows-veteran-families/) - Eighty years ago, war widows came together to demand dignity and support. Share your story and help us mark 80 years of community, advocacy and strength. - [Nature connection walk for Canberra veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/nature-connection-walk-veteran-families/) - A 90-minute guided nature connection walk for war widows, defence and veteran families. Mulligans Flat, Canberra, Friday 3 July 2026. Free to attend. - [Macramé workshop for Sydney veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/macrame-workshop-veteran-families/) - Join our macramé and dinner evening in Chatswood, 13 August. War widows, defence and veteran families welcome to craft and share a meal. Free, all welcome. - [Greeting cards workshop for Canberra veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/greeting-cards-veteran-families/) - Join our greeting cards workshop in Weston, 1 August. War widows, defence and veteran families welcome for a creative afternoon. All materials provided, free. - [Wellbeing walk and lunch in Sydney for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-walk-lunch-sydney-for-veteran-families/) - Join our wellbeing walk and lunch at Cronulla, Friday 7 August. War widows, defence and veteran families welcome for an easy foreshore stroll and lunch. Free. - [June wellbeing tips for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/june-wellbeing-tips-veteran-families/) - This month's wellbeing tips for war widows, defence and veteran families: build a feelings map with Atlas of the Heart, plus simple meditation practices. - [Monthly writing through grief online](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/monthly-writing-through-grief-online/) - Writing through grief: monthly online sessions for war widows and veteran families. A safe, supportive space to write, reflect, and reconnect. - [1946: how the War Widows’ Craft Guild began](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/1946-war-widows-craft-guild/) - Discover how Jessie Vasey and a group of war widows founded our Guild in 1946 — and the 80-year story of connection and advocacy that followed. - [Veterans and their families deserve better](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/veterans-families-deserve-better/) - The Government's proposed $5,000 cap on allied health care will leave 25,000 veterans, war widows and families worse off. Find out why—and how you can help. - [On International Widows' Day, we're acknowledging every widow — here and everywhere ](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/international-widows-day-2026/) - On International Widows' Day, we acknowledge widows everywhere—the same loss, the same right to be seen and supported. Read their stories. - [The best within us: 80 years on at Government House](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/best-within-us-80-years-government-house/) - 100 war widows gathered at Government House to open the Families of Veterans Guild's 80th anniversary year. A reflection on the afternoon and the year ahead. - [Wellbeing walk and lunch in Sydney for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-walk-lunch-sydney-veteran-families/) - Join our wellbeing walk and lunch in Sydney's Royal Botanic Gardens, Fri 17 July. Open now to war widows, defence and veteran families. Free, all welcome. - [Cake and coffee catch up for Canberra veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/cake-coffee-canberra-veteran-families/) - Join our cake and coffee catch up at Cafe Stepping Stone, Dickson, on Wed 22 July. War widows, defence and veteran families welcome. Free, all welcome. - [Online mindful colouring for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/online-colouring-veteran-families/) - A free online mindful colouring session for war widows, defence and veteran families, offering connection and quiet self‑care from home. - [Monthly cook & connect: veteran family dinner online](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/monthly-cook-connect-veteran-family-dinner/) - Join our monthly cook and connect dinners on Zoom from July to November 2026 — a wellbeing activity for war widows, defence and veteran families. - [New Veterans’ Legislation](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/new-veterans-legislation/) - New Veteran's Legislation from 1 July 2026 brings simplified claims pathways and enhanced support for widowed partners. Existing payments continue unchanged. - [Monthly meditation sessions for Townsville veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/monthly-meditation-townsville-veteran-families/) - Join us in Townsville for monthly meditation sessions from July to December, an activity for defence and veteran families to learn breathwork and meditation - [Craft and afternoon tea for Sydney veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/craft-afternoon-sydney-veteran-families/) - Crafternoon, anyone? Join war widows, defence and veteran families at Kissingpoint Cottage on Saturday 13 June 2026 for craft, afternoon tea and good company. - [Online Tension and Trauma Release Exercises (TRE) workshop for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/online-tre-workshop-veteran-families/) - Join us online across three Wednesdays in August 2026 for a TRE workshop — a wellbeing activity for war widows, defence and veteran families. - [Our recent wellbeing activities for war widows and veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-activities-defence-families/) - Defence and veteran families connected through journaling, baking, sound healing, and Kokedama workshops, fostering wellbeing, creativity, and community. - [Ceramic coaster painting session for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/ceramic-painting-veteran-families/) - Join us online on 22 July for a ceramic coaster painting session — a relaxed wellbeing activity for defence and veteran families to create from home. - [Sound immersion session for Adelaide veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/sound-immersion-session-adelaide-veteran-families/) - Join us in Torrensville on Friday 26 June 2026 for a sound immersion — a wellbeing activity for defence and veteran families to rest and restore. - [Clay art and morning tea for Adelaide veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/clay-morning-tea-adelaide-veteran-families/) - Join us in Rose Park on Saturday 27 June 2026 for clay art and morning tea — a wellbeing activity for war widows, defence and veteran families. - [74th ANZAC Field of Remembrance](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/74th-anzac-field-of-remembrance/) - Reflections from the 74th ANZAC Field of Remembrance at St Andrew's Cathedral, where war widows and veteran families gathered to honour their loved ones. - [May wellbeing tips for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/may-wellbeing-tips-veteran-families/) - Explore May's wellbeing tips: everyday habits that nurture connection and a gentle framework for navigating grief and complex emotions in veteran families. - [A cap on allied health is blunt and poor policy](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/dva-allied-health-cap/) - Advocacy response to the proposed $5,000 allied health cap for DVA card holders and its impact on veterans and widowed partners. - [Breathwork and meditation session for Townsville veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/breathwork-meditation-townsville-veteran-families/) - Join us at Live and Breathe Yoga in Townsville on Friday 19 June 2026 for a guided breathwork and meditation session. Free for veteran families. - [Build-A-Bear workshop for Sydney veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/build-bear-workshop-veteran-families/) - A familiar voice, tucked inside a bear. Join our free Build-a-Bear wellbeing activity for veteran families in Chatswood on Friday 10 July 2026. - [Science experiment: build your own volcano for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/build-volcano-veteran-families/) - Join defence and veteran families online on Wednesday 8 July 2026 to build, paint and erupt your own volcano. National Geographic kit included. - [Paint and dine together for Townsville veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/paint-dine-townsville-veteran-families/) - Join us in Townsville on Friday 19 June for a guided painting session and shared meal at Tipsy Doodle. Free for defence and veteran families. Register today. - [South Australia Update](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/south-australia-update/) - We are now operating in South Australia, supporting war widows and veteran families, with meetings restarting from May 2026 and services now available. - [Our first wellbeing activities in Adelaide and Townsville](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-activities-south-australia-queensland/) - Supporting war widows and veteran families in Adelaide and Townsville through new wellbeing programs, connection, and community activities. - [Representing war widows & families - ANZAC Day 2026 ](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/anzac-week-2026/) - War widows and families were represented across 15 ANZAC Week services in NSW and also in South Australia. Read the full recap. - [ANZAC Field of Remembrance Regional gatherings ](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/anzac-field-of-remembrance-social-clubs-gatherings/) - ANZAC Field of Remembrance regional gatherings unite war widows across NSW to livestream, lay crosses, and honour loved ones together with community support. - [Campaign update – restoring concession equality for NSW war widows](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/restoring-concession-equality-war-widows/) - An update on the Guild’s campaign to restore council rate concession equality for war widows, with growing support from councils and government. - [Entitlements update](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/entitlements-update/) - DVA updates on pension and allowance increases, advocacy regulation reforms, and improvements to the Booked Car with Driver transport service. - [Membership update](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/membership-update/) - An update on the rollout of the Guild’s new membership model, including progress to date and what’s coming next for members. - [Sound immersion session for Adelaide veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/sound-immersion-adelaide-veteran-families/) - Join a calming sound immersion session for defence and veteran families and enjoy deep relaxation in a supportive setting. - [Building capability on broken foundations: where are veteran families in this budget?](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/building-capability-broken-foundations-veteran-families/) - This week’s Federal Budget once again failed to commit any funding to supporting Australian veteran families, a community that hasn’t seen a substantive policy update since 1986. While the Government touts a record $53 billion Defence package, the limited funding flowing into the veteran portfolio is being funnelled into the most inefficient part of the - [Origami workshop for Canberra veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/origami-workshop-veteran-families/) - A free origami workshop for war widows, defence and veteran families, offering mindful creativity, focus and connection in a relaxed setting. - [Sound immersion session for Canberra veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/sound-immersion-session-canberra-veteran-families/) - Enjoy a free sound immersion session in Canberra for war widows, defence and veteran families, designed to promote relaxation, balance and calm. - [Watercolour painting for Adelaide veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/watercolour-painting-adelaide-veteran-families/) - Relax and get creative at a free watercolour painting session for war widows, defence and veteran families in Rose Park on 6 May 2026. - [Air dry clay workshop for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/air-clay-workshop-veteran-families/) - Join a free online air‑dry clay workshop for war widows and defence and veteran families—creative, relaxing and facilitated by the Guild’s Wellbeing Team. - [Writing through grief online](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/writing-through-grief-online-june/) - Creative writing session exploring grief for war widows, defence and veteran families in a supportive, facilitated online space. - [Wellbeing walk in Sydney for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/sydney-wellbeing-walk-veteran-families/) - A free wellbeing walk at the Chinese Garden of Friendship for war widows, defence and veteran families to connect, reflect and care for themselves. - [Cook & connect: veteran family dinner online](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/cook-veteran-family-dinner/) - Join at our online cook and connect dinner bringing war widows, defence and veteran families together to cook, chat and share a meal from home. - [Wellbeing walk for Canberra veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/canberra-wellbeing-walk-veteran-families/) - Join war widows, defence and veteran families for a gentle wellbeing walk, followed by coffee and connection in a relaxed outdoor setting. - [Sound immersion and meditation for Townsville veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/sound-immersion-meditation-veteran-families/) - Join us in Townsville on Saturday 20 June 2026 for a guided sound immersion and meditation session. Free for defence and veteran families. Register now. - [Trivia night for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/trivia-night-veteran-families-may/) - Join a free online trivia night for war widows, defence and veteran families—an easy, family‑friendly way to relax, laugh, and connect from home. - [Mothers Day afternoon tea for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/mothers-day-afternoon-tea-veteran-families/) - Join a free Mother’s Day afternoon tea in Sydney for war widows and veteran families. Connect, relax, and celebrate mothers on 9 May. - [Cook & connect: veteran family dinner online](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/cook-connect-veteran-family-dinner-may/) - Join our free Cook & Connect online dinner for war widows, defence and veteran families—share a meal, conversation and connection from home. - [Wellbeing walk and lunch for Canberra veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-walk-lunch-canberra-veteran-families/) - Join a free wellbeing walk and lunch in Canberra for war widows, defence and veteran families, combining gentle movement, nature and connection. - [Watercolour painting for Sydney veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/watercolour-painting-sydney-veteran-families/) - Join a free watercolour painting session for war widows, defence and veteran families, offering a relaxed space to create, connect and unwind. - [Hidden stories of Middle Head presentation for Sydney veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/hidden-stories-middle-head-presentation-veteran-families/) - Join a free presentation exploring the military history of Middle Head for war widows, defence and veteran families, with conversation and connection. - [Mindful mini kitchen: clay based workshop for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/mindful-mini-kitchen-clay-workshop-veteran-families/) - A free online clay art workshop supporting war widows and veteran families to relax, get creative and connect through mindful making. - [Writing through grief online](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/writing-through-grief-online-may/) - Join our online creative writing session for war widows, defence and veteran families, using writing as a tool to explore grief in a safe, supported space. - [Update on War Widows South Australia](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/update-war-widows-south-australia-april/) - 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 - [No deterrence without retention: National Defence Strategy](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/no-deterrence-without-retention-national-defence-strategy/) - Australia’s defence strategy boosts weapons, but neglects families. Without real support, there is no retention—and no true deterrence. - [Intention setting and reflection sessions for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/intention-reflection-sessions-veteran-families-april/) - Join our online Intention Setting and Reflection Sessions on 13 and 20 April. A short lunchtime wellbeing check-in facilitated by the FOV wellbeing team. - [Intention setting and reflection sessions for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/intention-setting-reflection-sessions-veteran-families/) - Weekly online intention setting and reflection sessions for war widows, defence and veteran families. Free, supportive wellbeing check-ins every Monday. - [April wellbeing tips for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/april-wellbeing-tips-veteran-families/) - Wellbeing tips for war widows, defence and veteran families, including staying connected during deployment, paying it forward, and reflecting on resilience. - [ANZAC Field of Remembrance: how families remember ahead of ANZAC Day](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/anzac-field-remembrance-families-remember/) - Learn what the ANZAC Field of Remembrance is, why it matters, and how to take part during ANZAC Month — in Sydney, locally, or online. - [Vietnam War 50th Anniversary Commemorative Medallion](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/vietnam-war-50th-anniversary-commemorative-medallion/) - Apply for the Vietnam War 50th anniversary medallion and certificate with DVA recognising the service and sacrifice of veterans and their families. - [Online watercolour painting for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/online-watercolour-painting-veteran-families/) - Join our online watercolour painting session on 30 April for war widows and defence and veteran families. Relax, create and connect from home. - [Veteran family dinner for Adelaide veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/veteran-family-dinner-adelaide-may/) - Join us in Adelaide for a free Veteran Family Dinner on 5 May 2026. Connect with other defence and veteran families and enjoy an evening at Pirate Life Brewing. - [Our latest wellbeing activities for war widows and veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/latest-wellbeing-activities-war-widows-veteran-families/) - Starting 2026 with creative, reflective wellbeing activities supporting war widows and veteran families through crafts, connection and gentle healing. - [Our latest wellbeing activities for war widows and veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-activities-war-widows-veteran-families/) - Discover recent wellbeing activities supporting war widows, defence and veteran families to connect, get out and about, and enjoy new experiences together. - [Wellbeing hike for Canberra veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-hike-canberra-veteran-families-may/) - Join a guided wellbeing hike for defence and veteran families on Friday 6 May, connecting through nature, movement and community on a scenic Mt Majura walk. - [Wellbeing walk for Sydney veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-walk-veteran-families-march/) - Join us on 11 April 2026 for a Botanical Gardens wellbeing walk. War widows, defence and veteran families are invited to join and have a coffee afterwards. - [Modern women, outdated systems: living with policies that lag behind](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/modern-women-outdated-systems/) - International Women’s Day exposes how outdated veteran family policies still fail to reflect women’s lives in defence communities. - [Writing through grief online](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/writing-through-grief-online-veteran-family/) - Writing Through Grief on Apr 9—an online creative writing session offering a safe, supportive space for veteran families to explore grief. - [Kokedama workshop for Canberra veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/kokedama-workshop-canberra-veteran-families/) - Join our Kokedama Workshop for war widows and defence and veteran families. A hands-on session focused on creativity, connection and wellbeing. - [Cook & connect: veteran family dinner online](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/cook-connect-veteran-family-dinner-april/) - Join our Cook & Connect online dinner for war widows and defence and veteran families on 29 April. Cook, share a meal and connect from home. - [Wellbeing hike for Canberra veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-hike-canberra-veteran-families/) - A guided wellbeing hike for defence and veteran families—connect through movement, nature and shared achievement. Free to attend. - [Why is veteran family policy stuck in the 1950s?](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/veteran-family-policy-stuck-1950s/) - Australia’s veteran families remain overlooked, with outdated policies and limited support despite rising defence spending and recognition of their vital role. - [March wellbeing tips for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/march-wellbeing-tips-veteran-families/) - Wellbeing tips for war widows, defence and veteran families, exploring connection, reflection and shared aspirations for the year ahead. - [Canberra Reptile Zoo visit for defence and veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/reptile-zoo-defence-veteran-families/) - Join defence and veteran families for a free Canberra Reptile Zoo visit, hosted by Soldier On in partnership with the Families of Veterans Guild. - [Marjorie C. - Still making a difference at 100](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/marjorie-still-making-difference/) - At 100, war widow Marjorie reflects on a life shaped by service, friendship and decades of supporting others through the Guild. - [A war widows story: Mary – ‘I do it my way’ ](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-story-mary/) - The story of a war widow. At 98, war widow Mary shares a life shaped by loss, friendship and fierce independence — always doing it her way. - [Trivia afternoon for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/trivia-afternoon-veteran-families/) - Online trivia afternoon on April 17 for defence and veteran families—relaxed, family‑friendly fun facilitated by our Wellbeing Team. - [Movie and pizza day for Sydney veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/movie-pizza-day-veteran-families/) - School holiday movie and pizza day for defence and veteran families, featuring Alvin and the Chipmunks and a relaxed afternoon together. - [Guided meditation for Townsville veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/guided-meditation-townsville-veteran-families/) - A guided meditation in Townsville supporting wellbeing and connection for defence and veteran families, facilitated by our Wellbeing Team. - [Veteran family dinner for Adelaide veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/veteran-family-dinner-adelaide/) - Our first wellbeing activity in Adelaide—join veteran families for a relaxed dinner and connection, facilitated by our Wellbeing Team. - [Update on War Widows South Australia](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/update-war-widows-south-australia/) - Expanding war widows services into South Australia, supporting wellbeing, connection and accommodation while honouring long‑standing partnerships and legacy. - [Intention setting and reflection sessions for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/intention-reflection-sessions-veteran-families/) - Start and end your week with intention and reflection—short online wellbeing sessions for defence and veteran families, facilitated by our Wellbeing Team. - [Cook & connect: veteran family dinner online](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/cook-connect-veteran-family-dinner-online/) - Free online Cook & Connect dinner for war widows and veteran families. Cook together, connect from home. Wednesday 25 March. - [Writing through grief online](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/writing-through-grief-online-march/) - A free online creative writing session for war widows and defence families, using writing to gently explore grief in a supportive environment. - [February wellbeing tips for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/february-wellbeing-tips-veteran-families/) - February wellbeing tip for war widows, defence and veteran families, exploring connection, boundaries and self‑respect from our Wellbeing Newsletter. - [Wellbeing walk in Sydney for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-walk-sydney-veteran-families-march/) - Join our free wellbeing walk for war widows, defence and veteran families at the Chinese Garden of Friendship—connect, unwind and enjoy calm in the heart of Sydney. - [Wellbeing walk for Canberra veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-walk-canberra-veteran-families-march/) - Join our free wellbeing walk and morning tea for war widows, defence and veteran families—connect, unwind and enjoy nature at Mulligans Flat. - [Paint by numbers session online for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/paint-by-numbers-veteran-families/) - Relax and create at our online paint by numbers session on March 11, facilitated by our Wellbeing Team for defence and veteran families. - [War Widows Social Club Christmas gatherings](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-christmas-gatherings/) - War Widows Social Clubs celebrate Christmas with festive lunches, friendship and tradition, bringing members together to end 2025 in style. - [Tension & Trauma Release Exercises (TRE) Workshop for War Widows and Veteran Families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tension-trauma-release-exercises-tre-war-widows-veteran-families/) - A wellbeing activity designed for war widows, defence and veteran familiesWar widows, defence and veteran families often carry ongoing stress related to defence life — including relocations, deployments, transitions out of service, and caring responsibilities. This online wellbeing activity has been created specifically for families of current and former serving members, providing a supportive space to - [Museum of Contemporary Art visit for Sydney veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/museum-visit-veteran-families/) - Explore contemporary art with veteran families at the MCA—an easy, relaxed outing supported by our Wellbeing Team. Free for defence and veteran families. - [Craft activities for Canberra veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/craft-activities-veteran-families/) - Join us in Canberra for a relaxed craft morning with our Wellbeing Team—offering creativity, connection and time to unwind for defence and veteran families. - [Trivia night for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/trivia-night-defence-veteran-families/) - Join our online Trivia Night on Feb 26 for a fun, family‑friendly session facilitated by our Wellbeing Team, supporting connection for veteran families. - [Writing through grief online](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/writing-through-grief-online-february/) - Online Writing Through Grief session on Feb 19—guided by our Wellbeing Team to support expression, reflection and connection for veteran families. - [January wellbeing tips for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/january-wellbeing-tips-veteran-families/) - Begin the new year with some self care. One practical tip on wholehearted living for defence and veteran families, from our Wellbeing Newsletter. - [Sound healing session for Canberra veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/sound-healing-canberra-veteran-families/) - Free sound healing session for war widows, defence and veteran families. Relax, recharge and connect at Flow and Food Yoga on January 24 to start the year off. - [Online gem art session for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/gem-art-session-veteran-families/) - Join our free online gem art wellbeing session for defence and veteran families. A calming, creative activity supporting connection, mindfulness and self-care. - [Wellbeing walk and lunch at the Canberra Botanic Gardens for war widows, defence and veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/canberra-wellbeing-walk-lunch-war-widows-veteran-families/) - Join our free guided wellbeing walk and lunch in Canberra for war widows and veteran families. Connect, move, and enjoy nature in a supportive, social setting. - [Wellbeing walk and lunch in Sydney for widows, defence and veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/sydney-wellbeing-walk-lunch-widows-defence-veteran-families/) - Join a free wellbeing walk and lunch in Sydney for war widows and veteran families. A gentle outdoor activity supporting connection, movement and self-care. - [Cook & connect: veteran family dinner online](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/cook-and-connect-veteran-family-dinner/) - Join our Wellbeing Team on Jan 27 for Cook & Connect — a free online dinner bringing veteran families together for food, conversation, and care. - [Our latest wellbeing activities for war widows and veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-activities-veteran-families-december/) - Wrapping up 2025 with creative, peaceful, and reflective wellbeing activities for war widows, defence and veteran families that foster connection and care. - [Painting seashells online for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/painting-seashells-veteran-families/) - Join our Wellbeing Team on [insert date] for a creative seashell painting session — a simple way to relax, connect, and focus on self-care. - [City Saturday Social Club Christmas gathering](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/city-saturday-christmas-gathering/) - Discover how City Saturday Club celebrated Christmas with a wonderful surprise, honouring and surprising Mary with a Life Membership award. - [December wellbeing tips for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/december-wellbeing-tips-veteran-families/) - Discover practical wellbeing tips for veteran families & war widows, including healing outdoors, understanding resentment, and sharing wisdom through mentoring. - [Writing through grief online](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/writing-through-grief-online-veteran-families/) - Free online creative writing session on grief for war widows, defence & veteran families. Explore healing through words with our Wellbeing Team. - [War Widows Social Club highlights](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-social-club-highlights/) - View these highlights from recent War Widows Social Club gatherings, including birthdays, cultural outings, and coordinator milestones. - [Younger Members Social Club outing](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/younger-members-social-club-outing/) - A memorable outing where war widows explore military nursing history and witness top-notch care for veterans at Concord Hospital. - [Wellbeing walk for Sydney veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/botanical-gardens-veteran-families/) - Join our free Botanical Gardens wellbeing walk for war widows, defence and veteran families—connect, unwind and nurture your wellbeing in nature together. - [Thrive in 2026: Vision board session for Sydney veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/thrive-in-2026-veteran-families/) - Free online vision board workshop for war widows, defence & veteran families. Reflect, create, and set goals for 2026 with our Wellbeing Team. - [War widows social club outing](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-social-club-outing/) - Join the Penrith War Widows Social Club as they swap RSL lunches for an elegant high tea at NSW Parliament House—a day of history and connection - [Wellbeing walk and lunch for Sydney veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/walk-lunch-sydney-veteran-families/) - Join our Wellbeing Team for a guided walk through Middle Head’s military history and a picnic lunch. Connect, move, and nourish your wellbeing. - [Table tennis and lunch for Canberra veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/table-tennis-veteran-families/) - Join our Wellbeing Team for a fun table tennis session and lunch — a great way to connect, relax and focus on wellbeing these school holidays. - [Media release - NSW regulation strips council concessions from 3,000 war widows](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/nsw-council-concessions-war-widows/) - Over 3,000 NSW war widows lose council rate concessions after their veteran spouse dies. The Guild calls for urgent rule change to restore fairness - [Thrive in 2026: Vision board session for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/vision-board-session-veteran-families/) - Join our free online vision board workshop and start 2026 with clarity, creativity, and connection. Open to war widows, defence and veteran families - [War widows walk at Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-walk-kokoda-track/) - War widows reconnect at Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway with a guided walk, wreath laying, lunch, and a focus on wellbeing and community. - [Our latest wellbeing activities for war widows and veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-activities-war-widows/) - Creative workshops brought war widows and veteran families together for healing, connection, and festive cheer through craft and reflection. - [War widows social club outing](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-outing-penrith/) - Discover how the Penrith War Widows Social Club turned a simple shopping trip into a day of laughter, connection, and meaningful moments - [Remembrance Day 2025](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/remembrance-day-2025/) - This Remembrance Day, members and Guild representatives attended services across NSW, laying wreaths on behalf of war widows and families of veterans. - [November wellbeing tips for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/november-wellbeing-tips-veteran-families/) - Explore wellbeing tips on connection through activity and healing through emotion. Practical support for veteran families this holiday season. - [Our latest wellbeing activities for war widows and veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/our-wellbeing-activities-veteran-families/) - Explore recent social and outdoor activities helping Defence and veteran families connect, unwind, and build community through shared experiences. - [Wellbeing walk and lunch for Canberra veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-walk-lunch-veteran-families/) - Reconnect with nature on a free wellbeing walk and lunch for war widows, defence and veteran families—connect, unwind and enjoy Lake Burley Griffin together. - [Christmas activities for Sydney veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/christmas-activities-veteran-families/) - Join a free Christmas crafting session and lunch for war widows, defence & veteran families. Connect, create lavender hearts, write cards, share festive cheer. - [Writing through grief online](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/creative-writing-through-grief/) - Join our free online creative writing session for war widows, defence and veteran families—reflect on grief, share stories, and connect in a supportive space. - [Media release - Veteran Families Survey Report](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/veteran-families-survey-report/) - New report reveals over half of Australian veteran families face mental health challenges, urging urgent government action and better support. - [Christmas baubles workshop for Canberra veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/christmas-baubles-veteran-families/) - Join our free Christmas Baubles Workshop for war widows, defence and veteran families in Queanbeyan. Get creative, connect, and celebrate the festive season - [War Widows Day 2025: honouring stories, service, and sacrifice ](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-day-2025/) - War Widows Day 2025 honoured Australia’s war widows and families at the Sydney Cenotaph, celebrating resilience, remembrance, and the legacy of service - [October wellbeing tips for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/october-wellbeing-tips-veteran-families/) - Discover wellbeing tips for war widows, defence and veteran families — from kindness and listening to the healing power of animals. - [Why War Widows Day matters](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-day-matters/) - Join Australians on 19 October to honour the courage, resilience, and unique sacrifices of war widows at the War Widows Day ceremony in Sydney. - [Cook & connect: veteran family dinner online](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/defence-family-dinner-online/) - Join our free online Cook & Connect dinner on 26 Nov 2025 — a relaxed evening for war widows and veteran families to share a meal, stories and connection. - [Writing through grief online](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/writing-through-grief-online/) - Join our free online creative writing session on 20 Nov 2025 — a gentle space for war widows and veteran families to reflect, write and connect through grief. - [Wellbeing walk for Sydney war widows](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-walk-war-widows/) - Join Sydney war widows for a guided walk at the Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway on 14 Nov 2025 — reflect, connect and share lunch in remembrance. - [Wellbeing walk and lunch for Canberra veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-walk-canberra-defence-families/) - Join our free wellbeing walk for war widows, defence and veteran families — connect, unwind and enjoy nature at Jerrabomberra Wetlands on 7 Nov 2025. - [Wear it with pride: the meaning of the War Widows Day Pin](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wear-it-with-pride/) - Honour sacrifice and remembrance — the War Widows Day pin unites Australians in recognising the strength and resilience of war widows and widowers. - [Writing Christmas cards to war widows](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/christmas-cards-veteran-families/) - Join veteran families in Chatswood to write heartfelt Christmas cards for war widows. Free festive sessions with lunch and all materials provided. - [Every tribute tells a story: introducing our War Widows Honour Roll](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/introducing-war-widows-honour-roll/) - On War Widows Day, honour the courage and resilience of Australia’s war widows. Share a tribute on the Honour Roll or wear the War Widows Day 2025 pin. - [Our latest wellbeing activities for war widows and veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/latest-wellbeing-activities-veteran-families/) - Discover recent social activities from our Wellbeing Program, bringing defence and veteran families together to connect and enjoy time out. - [Our latest wellbeing activities for war widows and veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/latest-wellbeing-activities-defence-families/) - Explore creative workshops from our Wellbeing Program, where defence and veteran families connect through crafts, writing, and mindful activities. - [Wellbeing walk for Sydney veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/sydney-walk-veteran-families/) - Join war widows, defence & veteran families for a free wellbeing walk in the Botanical Gardens — connect, reflect, and nurture wellbeing in nature - [Wellbeing walk for Canberra veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/canberra-walk-veteran-families/) - Join war widows, defence & veteran families for a free wellbeing walk at Lake Burley Griffin. Connect, recharge & enjoy nature together - [A journey with the Guild: a war widows story](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/journey-with-the-guild/) - A war widow’s journey of resilience, connection, and service with the Families of Veterans Guild, finding belonging and supporting others. - [A journey of love & service: a war widows story](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/journey-of-love-service/) - Nola shares her journey as a defence spouse and widow—navigating service life, resilience, family, and the support found through the Guild. - [Clay workshop for Sydney veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/clay-workshop-sydney-veteran-families/) - Hands-on clay art workshop for Sydney war widows, defence & veteran families. Free session to create, connect & enjoy mindful creativity together. - [September wellbeing tips for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/september-wellbeing-tips-veteran-families/) - Build connection through shared hobbies and embrace spring mindfulness this September to support wellbeing for veteran families. - [Picnic & Jazz at the Government House](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/picnic-jazz-government-house/) - Enjoy a free wellbeing picnic at Government House Sydney with war widows, defence & veteran families, featuring Jazz@theHouse & the Army Band. - [Macrame workshop for Sydney veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/macrame-workshop-sydney-veteran-families/) - Free macramé workshop for war widows, defence and veteran families in Chatswood, 10 Oct 2025. Connect, create, and enjoy morning tea. - [Writing through grief online](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/online-writing-through-grief/) - Free online creative writing session for war widows, defence & veteran families. Explore grief, healing & connection through storytelling. Register now. - [Your DVA Entitlements, a webinar for war widows](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/dva-webinar-for-war-widows/) - Families of Veterans Guild shares a DVA webinar for war widows on entitlements, nursing, support payments, transport, and home care services by DVA. - [Clay workshop for Canberra veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/clay-workshop-canberra-veteran-families/) - Free clay art workshop for war widows, defence and veteran families in Weston, 25 Oct 2025. Create, connect, and enjoy afternoon tea. - [Hanging sun catchers workshop for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/hanging-sun-catchers-veteran-families/) - Free online workshop for war widows, defence & veteran families. Create kookaburra & wattle sun catchers, connect with others & enjoy self-care through creativity. - [Veteran family movie screening: 'The Secret Garden'](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/veteran-family-movie-afternoon/) - Join veteran families for a free school holiday movie afternoon at NFSA. Relax, connect, and enjoy The Secret Garden on the big screen - [Commemorating 80 years: Victory in the Pacific Day services Sydney](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/80-years-vp-day/) - Marking the 80th VP Day, we honour WWII veterans and families at RSL NSW, Kokoda Track, and Twilight services across Sydney. - [Online watercolour painting for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/online-painting-veteran-families/) - Join our free online watercolour session for war widows, defence & veteran families — connect, create, and unwind together. - [Positive progress but defence and veteran families need more than words](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/defence-families-need-more-than-words/) - Close but not quite: A message from our CEO, Renee Wilson, in response to The Hon. Matt Keogh MP speech to the Parliament. - [Enhancing mental health for NSW veterans and their families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/mental-health-veteran-families/) - Veteran families face unique mental health challenges. We call on NSW to create a dedicated stream of support in its new strategy. - [Senate Committee recommends historic change for veteran and defence families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/senate-committee-change-defence-families/) - Senate Committee recommends historic change for veteran families On 29 August 2025, the Senate’s Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Legislation Committee made a landmark recommendation: that the legislation establishing the Defence and Veteran Services Commission should be amended to specifically include veteran families. If implemented by the government, this will be the first time that - [Wellbeing walk for Canberra veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-walk-canberra-veteran-families/) - Join our free wellbeing walk at Commonwealth Park for war widows, defence and veteran families—connection, conversation & fresh air! - [Introducing our resource hub for veteran and defence families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/resource-hub-veteran-families/) - A central hub of support for war widows, defence and veteran families—find info, resources, and tools to stay informed, connected and empowered. - [Upcoming webinar: understanding DVA entitlements for war widows](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/webinar-dva-entitlements-war-widows/) - Families of Veterans Guild, in collaboration with the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA), is hosting a dedicated and exclusive webinar for war widows. - [Your DVA Entitlements, a webinar for war widows](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/dva-entitlements-webinar-war-widows/) - Watch this exclusive July 2025 webinar for war widows, hosted by Families of Veterans Guild & DVA, covering entitlements, support, and live Q&A sessions. - [Introducing our Guide to Carer Gateway Services](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/guide-to-carer-gateway-services/) - Discover our new guide to Carer Gateway services, helping carers in veteran and defence families access support, respite and connection. - [Cook & connect: veteran family dinner online](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/veteran-family-dinner/) - Cook & Connect online dinner for war widows, defence & veteran families. Share a meal, chat, and connect from home. Gift card provided. - [Kokedama workshop for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/kokedama-canberra-veteran-families/) - Free kokedama workshop for Canberra war widows, defence and veteran families. Connect, create, and take home your own plant. All welcome — no experience needed. - [Canberra veteran partner dinner](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/canberra-veteran-partners-dinner/) - Join us for a free veteran partner dinner in Canberra on 6 Sept 2025. Connect with others who share your journey. Registrations close 3 Sept. - [Wellbeing walk for Sydney veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/garden-walk-veteran-families/) - Join our free wellbeing walk for defence and veteran families on 12 Sept 2025 at the Botanical Gardens Sydney. Connect, reflect, and recharge in nature. - [Supporting others in her 100's - a war widows story](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-story-2/) - Elizabeth's story of love, loss, and quiet service highlights the strength of war widows and the community they continue to build. - [Writing through grief online](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/writing-through-grief-session/) - Join our free online writing session on grief for veteran families, 18 Sept 2025. Reflect, connect, and heal through storytelling. Register by 8 Sept. - [August wellbeing tips for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/august-wellbeing-tips-veteran-families/) - Explore wellbeing tips for veteran families: discover the benefits of volunteering and mindful tech use in our latest newsletter. Subscribe for monthly updates. - [Clay workshop for Canberra veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/clay-workshop-veteran-families/) - Free clay art session for defence & veteran families on 15 Aug in Queanbeyan. Get creative, connect with others & enjoy morning tea. - [Baking workshop online for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/baking-workshop-veteran-families/) - Free online cupcake baking session for war widows, defence and veteran families to relax, connect, and enjoy a fun, hands-on evening from the comfort of home. - [Watercolour painting for Canberra veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/watercolour-painting-veteran-families-canberra/) - Join us for a free watercolour painting session on 16 Aug in Weston. Open to war widows, defence & veteran families. Connect, create & enjoy afternoon tea. - [Sound healing session for Sydney veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/sound-healing-sydney-veteran-families/) - Join us for a free sound healing session for veteran families on 31 Aug in Cronulla—relax, recharge, and connect. Registrations now open! - [Lavender heart crafting workshop](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/lavender-felt-heart-workshop/) - Free lavender felt heart workshop for defence & veteran families – connect, create, and contribute. Join us in Chatswood on 5 Sept 2025. - [Gem art session for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/gem-art-veteran-families/) - Join our free online gem art session on 11 Sept 2025. Create a sparkling bookmark and connect with fellow defence and veteran families. Register by 27 August. - [Writing through grief](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/writing-through-grief/) - Free online creative writing session for war widows, defence and veteran families to reflect on grief, connection and healing through storytelling. - [Wellbeing walk for Sydney veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-walk-sydney-veteran-families/) - Join us for a free wellbeing walk for war widows, defence & veteran families at Sydney’s Cherry Blossom Festival on 22 Aug 2025. Connect, unwind, enjoy nature. - [Support for veteran families: building a better future together](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/support-for-veteran-families/) - Veteran families need support now, not just after loss. We're advocating for reforms to ensure they're seen, heard, and supported—legally and practically. - [Strengthening the Interim Defence and Veterans’ Services Commission](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/interim-defence-veterans-services-commission/) - Meeting with interim Defence & Veterans’ Commissioner: key reforms, advocacy priorities, and calls to include families in systemic mental health support. - [Advocacy: Reflecting on a year of progress and impact](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/advocacy-reflecting-on-a-year-of-progress-and-impact/) - Advocating for veteran families: 12 months of action, submissions, and data showing the real impacts of defence service on families across Australia. - [Australian War Memorial tour for Canberra veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/memorial-tour-veteran-families/) - War widows, defence and veteran families are invited to a free private tour of the Australian War Memorial on 11 July. Connect, reflect & honour service. - [Rise Together: empowering defence and veteran partners through leadership and connection](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/empowering-defence-partners-leadership-connection/) - A national initiative supporting defence families and war widows In early June, twelve women from across Australia gathered in Sydney for a five-day leadership and career confidence workshop — the final stage of our Rise Together Initiative. Designed for defence and veteran partners, including war widows, the program focused on building confidence, strengthening leadership skills, - [Wellbeing walk for Canberra veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-walk-veteran-families-mulligan/) - Join our free wellbeing walk for war widows, defence & veteran families on 8 Aug at Mulligan’s Flat. Connect, walk & unwind in nature. - [July wellbeing tips for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/july-wellbeing-tips-veteran-families/) - Support your wellbeing with storytelling and mindfulness tips for veteran families. Discover activities and events to help you feel more connected. - [Our latest wellbeing activities for war widows and veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-activities-veteran-families-july/) - Creative, social & wellbeing events for war widows & veteran families across NSW & ACT—connection, relaxation & support from April to June. - [Benefits of connecting over a shared meal](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/connecting-over-shared-meal/) - Defence and veteran families connect through shared meals in our recent wellbeing dinners—online and in-person—building community, purpose, and support. - [Writing through grief](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/writing-session-veteran-families/) - Join war widows, defence and veteran families for a free Writing Through Grief session in Chatswood or online, 24 July. Explore creative writing. - [Watercolour painting for Sydney veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/watercolour-painting-veteran-families-3/) - Free watercolour painting for veteran families and war widows in Chatswood on 9 July. Enjoy art, morning tea, and connection. Kids welcome. - [Indoor play session at Lollipop’s Playland](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/lollipops-playland-veteran-families/) - Free indoor play session for current and former ADF families at Lollipop’s Playland, Canberra on 7 July. Enjoy fun and connection with other veteran families. - [Wellbeing walk for Sydney veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-walk-veteran-families-3/) - War widows, defence and veteran families are invited for a free wellbeing walk at Sydney Bastille Festival. Connect, share & enjoy a mindful stroll. - [Cook & connect: veteran family dinner online](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/veteran-family-dinner-online/) - Join war widows, defence and veteran families for a free online cooking night on 30 July. Cook, connect & share a meal from the comfort of home. - [Creative writing session for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/creative-writing-veteran-families/) - Join us for a creative writing session for veteran families to explore connection & self-care through journaling, poetry & more. Free, all materials provided. - [Sydney veteran family lunch](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/sydney-veteran-family-lunch/) - Free lunch for war widows, defence & veteran families at Bankstown RSL. Connect, relax & enjoy on 16 July. Register by 14 July. - [Sound healing session for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/sound-healing-veteran-families/) - Free sound healing for war widows, defence & veteran families – connect, relax & recharge in Canberra. Sat 28 June. Register now, places limited! - [Defence Honours and Awards System Inquiry: progress on recognition for veterans and families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/defence-honours-awards-system-recognition-veterans-families/) - Advocacy that made a difference: the Senate Foreign Affairs and Defence Committee tabled its report on the Inquiry into the Defence Honours and Awards System. - [Online candle making workshop for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/candle-making-workshop-online/) - Free online candle making workshop for war widows, defence and veteran families. Connect, create, and care for your wellbeing. Register now! - [Volunteers thank you lunch](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/volunteers-thank-you-lunch/) - Volunteers thank you luncheon held on 10 June 2025 at Club Parramatta, celebrating the contributions of war widow volunteers with reflections from members. - [Canberra veteran partner dinner](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/canberra-veteran-partner-dinner/) - Free dinner for war widows and partners of ADF members—connect, share and relax with peers at The Dock, Kingston on 14 June. Register by 10 June. - [Kokedama workshop for Canberra veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/kokedama-workshop-veteran-families/) - Free kokedama workshop for veteran families and war widows on 8 July in Queanbeyan. Connect, create, and enjoy morning tea together. - [June wellbeing tips for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/june-wellbeing-tips/) - Discover how creative writing and social connection can support wellbeing and ease winter’s emotional toll, especially for Defence and Veteran families. - [Submission to Senate Inquiry into legislation establishing Defence and Veteran Services Commission ](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/submission-to-senate-inquiry/) - Submission supporting the DVS Commission, urging stronger suicide prevention goals and inclusion of veteran families in system reform. - [Candle making workshop for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/candle-workshop-veteran-families/) - Free candle making workshop for war widows, defence and veteran families—connect, create and care at Kissingpoint Cottage on 21 June. - [Online watercolour painting for war widows, defence and veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/watercolour-painting-veteran-families-2/) - Free online watercolour painting for war widows, defence and veteran families. Connect, create, and care for your wellbeing. Register by 11 June 2025. - [Twelve women rise together](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/leaders-rise-together/) - Twelve leaders rising together: meet the successful applicants of the rise together initiative We’re proud to announce the 12 successful applicants selected for our Rise Together Initiative, a unique leadership and career confidence program designed specifically for war widows and partners of veterans. With an overwhelming response of 27 applications from across Australia, the final - [Celebrating National Volunteer Week: thank you to our volunteers](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/national-volunteer-week/) - This National Volunteers Week (19–25 May), we honour the volunteers who uplift and support war widows and veteran families through compassion and service. - [Peak Body Consultation](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/peak-body-consultation/) - We have been heavily involved in the consultations for a national peak body for the veteran support organisation sector, with veteran families in mind. - [Our submission to Senate Inquiry into Compensation and Income Support for Veterans](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/submission-senate-inquiry-compensation-income/) - We asked veterans and their families to share their views so we could prepare our response to Senate Inquiry into Compensation and Income Support for Veterans. - [ANZAC Field of Remembrance social clubs gatherings](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/remembrance-social-clubs-gatherings/) - Livestreaming the ANZAC Field of Remembrance brings communities together, making remembrance accessible and inclusive for all. - [Wellbeing walk for Sydney veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-walk-veteran-families-2/) - Join Sydney war widows, defence & veteran families for a free wellbeing walk on 5 June. Relax, connect & explore the Royal Botanic Gardens - [Sydney sound healing for defence and veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/sound-healing-defence-families/) - Join us for a free sound healing session in Cronulla for war widows, defence and veteran families—connect, relax, and support wellbeing through self-care. - [Wellbeing walk for Canberra veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-walk-defence-families-2/) - Join veteran families & war widows for a free wellbeing walk & lunch at Jerrabomberra Wetlands, Canberra. Friday 13 June 2025. Register now! - [ANZAC Day 2025 Services](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/anzac-day-2025-services/) - Representing war widows & families at ANZAC Day 2025 services across NSW & Victoria—ensuring their sacrifices are honoured, seen & remembered. - [73rd ANZAC Field of Remembrance](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/73rd-anzac-field-of-remembrance/) - Honouring service & sacrifice at the 73rd ANZAC Field of Remembrance—a heartfelt space for families to lay tributes and reflect, in Sydney & across NSW. - [ANZAC Day March in Sydney CBD](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/anzac-day-march-sydney/) - Families of Veterans Guild members joined the ANZAC Day March in Sydney, honouring war widows and veteran families in a powerful display of remembrance! - [May wellbeing tips for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-tips-veteran-families/) - Discover practical wellbeing tips for war widows, defence and veteran families—from building social connection to better sleep and self-care - [Decluttering workshop for war widows, defence and veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/decluttering-workshop-defence-families/) - Free online decluttering workshop for war widows, defence & veteran families. Connect, learn & care for your wellbeing. Register now. - [Why support for veteran families can’t wait any longer](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/support-veteran-families-cant-wait/) - We're calling on Labor to match a $5M pledge for veteran families—because real, lasting support must include those who serve beside our servicemembers. - [We welcome Coalition’s $5 million election commitment, call for bipartisan support for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/funding-commitment-from-coalition/) - Coalition pledges $5M to support veteran families; Families of Veterans Guild urges bipartisan backing to secure vital services for those who serve. - [The ultimate defence spouse: a war widows story](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-story/) - A war widow’s quiet rebellion against grief shows us how to live with strength, joy, and grace—no matter what life takes from us. - [Social connection online for war widows, defence and veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/social-connection-defence-families/) - Find connection and community through local social groups. Whether you're a defence family, or war widow, discover new friendships and support networks. - [Wellbeing walk for war widows, defence and veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-walk-canberra-defence/) - Join us for a free wellbeing walk by Lake Burley Griffin with war widows, defence & veteran families—connect, reflect, and enjoy nature together. - [Cook & connect: veteran family dinner online](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/defence-veteran-family-dinner/) - Join war widows & veteran families online for a free virtual dinner—cook together, connect & share a meal from home, all ingredients included. - [Terrarium workshop for war widows, defence and veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/terrarium-workshop-defence-families/) - Free terrarium workshop for war widows, defence and veteran families in Canberra—connect, create, and care for your wellbeing. - [Wellbeing walk for war widows, defence and veteran families in Coffs Harbour](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellness-walk-defence-families/) - Join war widows & veteran families for a free 4km beachside walk in Coffs Harbour—connect, enjoy nature, and share a cuppa by the sea. - [Yoga session for defence and veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/yoga-session-defence-families/) - Free family yoga for veteran families on 31 May in North Parramatta. Reconnect, relax, and unwind together. Ages 3+ welcome. Register now! - [Wellbeing walk for war widows, defence and veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-walk-defence-families/) - Join us for a free wellbeing walk along Parramatta River with war widows, defence & veteran families—connect, unwind, and enjoy a mindful morning together. - [Another budget, another missed opportunity for veterans & their families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/another-missed-opportunity/) - CEO Renee Wilson critiques the defence budget, highlighting the neglect of veterans and their families in contrast to massive defence industry spending. - [Self care through watercolour for war widows, defence and veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/watercolourpainting-war-widows-defence/) - Discover the calming benefits of watercolour painting—perfect for defence families, veterans, and war widows to find healing, creativity, and self-expression. - [War Widows NSW eNewsletter Update](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-nsw-enewsletter-update-5/) - Dear Member, August is turning out to be another of those defining months in 2020. On 15 August, we celebrate the 75th Anniversary of Victory in the Pacific. In 1945, VP Day was gazetted as a public holiday. Today, we can only remember that defining moment. The growing crisis of older people in care reminds - [Cancellation of the War Widows\' Walk & Picnic](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/cacellation-of-the-war-widows-walk-picnic/) - Dear Members, In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 War Widows’ Walk & Picnic in Concord is deemed as a high-risk event due to the virus’ potential to spread among our Members who are more vulnerable. Therefore, it is with great sadness that I write to you about the Board’s decision to cancel this year’s War Widows’ Walk - [Joint Letter on ANZAC Day 2020](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/joint-letter-to-members-regarding-anzac-day-2020/) - Please click here to read a letter to members regarding Anzac Day services, including information on the ABC broadcast of Anzac Day services. The letter has been written jointly by: Rhondda Vanzella OAM, State President, War Widows NSW, Geoff Lee MP, the Acting NSW Minister for Veterans, Ray James, RSL NSW Acting President, Greg Wrate, President, - [War Widows NSW eNewsletter Update](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/2711-2/) - We’ve only just started a new month and there’s so much to share with each of you. Firstly, I want to thank each of our Friendship Line Volunteers who have risen to the herculean task of Volunteering from Home. Your support to our Members, far and wide is so critical at this time. In partnering with - [War Widows NSW eNewsletter Update](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-nsw-enewletter-update/) - Last week, we experienced a reduction in isolation measures which you may have enjoyed with family or friends. As it’s National Volunteer Week this week, what better time to make a special mention of our Volunteers who are such a big part of our organisation. Again, I want to commend you collectively for your work, - [Improving support for defence and veteran families: our response to the wellbeing strategy 2025-2030](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/improving-support-response-wellbeing-strategy/) - We have recently submitted feedback on the Defence and Veteran Family Wellbeing Strategy 2025-2030. You can read our submission here. Overview of our response In summary, our response to the strategy highlights the importance of supporting and empowering the families of veterans to achieve a stronger, more sustainable, and resilient defence and veteran community. Our - [Have your say on ADF Superannuation Schemes - Share your experiences](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/adf-superannuation-schemes-experiences/) - Are you or a loved one affected by the superannuation schemes for Australian Defence Force (ADF) members? The Senate’s Finance and Public Administration Reference Committee has launched an Inquiry into the operation and appropriateness of the superannuation schemes for current and former serving ADF members. Your voice is crucial in shaping the future of these - [Online watercolour painting for war widows, defence and veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/watercolour-painting-veteran-families/) - Join us for a free online watercolour painting session for war widows and veteran families on 14 May 2025. Connect, create, and unwind. Register now! - [AWWNSW E-NEWSLETTER MARCH 2024](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/march_e-newsletter/) - Welcome to the March Newsletter! As Autumn begins and we progress through the first part of the year, we enter a very important period for our community and organisation. It is also a very busy time for the sector, with the Royal Commission now undertaking its final public hearings, consultation on the new Aged Care - [AWWNSW ENEWSLETTER FEBRUARY 2024](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/awwnsw-enewsletter-february-2024/) - Welcome to the February 2024 Newsletter! Our team is thrilled to be back and is ready for a new year filled with excitement! We are all looking forward to seeing our organisation grow and evolve and we welcome this new year with positivity, motivation and inspiration. Meeting you at events, speaking with you over the - [Our Space NSW event](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/our-space-nsw-event/) - Guided Peer Support Sound HealingAre you a defence or veteran spouse in Sydney? Navigating new postings, holding the fort while your partner is deployed or simply in need of some ‘me time’?We invite you to join Our Space for a guided peer support session and to discover relaxation with sound, with us!This free event will be hosted at the - [How can we inspire inclusion](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/how-can-we-inspire-inclusion/) - International Women\'s Day 2024 Webinar To celebrate the women in our community, this coming International Women’s Day, we will host an exclusive webinar. ‘How can we inspire inclusion’ will cover the subject of inclusion for defence and veteran spouses and will deliver an educated conversation around what inclusion means, ageism, intra-generational inclusion and how to - [Our Space NSW event](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/our-space-nsw-event-2/) - Guided Peer Support Sound HealingAre you a defence or veteran spouse in Sydney? Navigating new postings, holding the fort while your partner is deployed or simply in need of some ‘me time’?We invite you to join Our Space for a guided peer support session and to discover relaxation with sound, with us!This free event will - [International Women’s Day 2024 Webinar](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/iwd-webinar-2024/) - To celebrate the women in our community, this coming International Women’s Day, we will host an exclusive webinar on 7 March 2024. - [Branding Consultation and Future Initiatives](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/branding-consultation-and-future-initiatives/) - We provide you with an overview of the developments and recent decision made by our Board regarding our Brand to ensure the future of our organisation. We want to make sure Australia does not forget its war widows and ensure they continue to receive the support and recognition they deserve. To achieve this, it is - [AWWNSW ENEWSLETTER DECEMBER 2023](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/awwnsw-enewsletter-december-2023/) - Welcome to our December newsletter! This month, our CEO shares her end of year message and we update you on our call for a national War Widows Day. In this newsletter, we provide you with updates on recent news and reports released from DVA, our latest Club events and holiday season gatherings, plus share the - [Reflecting on 2023](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/reflecting-on-2023/) - A message from Renee Wilson, CEO Australian War Widows NSW As I write this message, the Christmas tree is up, Christmas carols are playing in every store and my two children are asking me every single day, ‘how many days until Christmas?’ But before we say farewell to 2023, I want to take this opportunity to - [AWWNSW ENEWSLETTER NOVEMBER 2023](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/awwnsw-enewsletter-november-2023/) - Welcome to our November newsletter! This month, we call for your response to the proposed national War Widows Day, we update you on the recent DVA Gold and White Card benefits, share our latest Club events and invite you to the much-anticipated Our Space ACT and Our Space Online Webinar. Plus, we share news concerning the Royal - [International Volunteer Day](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/international-volunteer-day/) - On Tuesday 5 December, we will mark International Volunteer Day. We thank all of our caring and committed AWWNSW volunteers. Our amazing volunteers have been busy writing over 2,200 Christmas cards. We have had some lovely gatherings in the Chatswood office, filled with smiles and laughter! A special thanks to our volunteers for handwriting so many - [Calling For National War Widows Day](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/calling-for-national-war-widows-day/) - During October, we sought the views of war widows and the general community on the question of a national War Widows Day. 37 of you took the time to write to us and express why they thought there should be a national day. Here are some of those responses: I believe that war widows are - [AWWNSW ENEWSLETTER OCTOBER 2023](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/awwnsw-enewsletter-october-2023/) - Welcome to our October newsletter! This month, we bring you exciting updates including the latest from War Widows\' Day, Gold Card concessions, and the much-anticipated Our Space ACT and Our Space Online. Plus, we share news concerning the Royal Commission and the Defence & Veteran Community Forum. Stay tuned as we also give you a - [ACT Veterans and Families Expo](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/act-veterans-and-families-expo/) - Our Space ACT is coming to the ACT Veterans and Families Expo! We are excited to host an information session for veterans\' families at the ACT Veterans and Families Expo on 25 November 2023. We are also happy to support the event through the provision of children’s activities and ice-cold snacks. Proudly hosted by RSL - [War Widows Day 2023 Photo Gallery](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-day-2023-photo-gallery/) - War Widows Day was observed for the second time in NSW on 19 October. This year we worked closely with Sydney Legacy to expand the reach of the day and involve even more war widows around Sydney. We are looking forward to growing the regional element of War Widows Day in 2024 through developing similar - [Royal Commission Submission - October 2023](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/royal-commission-submission-2023/) - Australian War Widows NSW (AWWNSW) recently made a second written submission to the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide. This submission is the second written submission provided by Australian War Widows NSW Ltd to the Royal Commission. The content of this submission built from AWWNSW’s first written submission in October 2021. In this document, - [\'Reshaped\' Art Exhibition](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/reshaped-art-exhibition/) - We\'re excited to share with you the opening of Michelle Carr\'s incredible art exhibition, \'Reshaped\'. Michelle, a cherished member of our AWWNSW community, has poured her heart and soul into delicate porcelain sculptures, each one a testament to her journey through loss and resilience. Each artwork is unique, precious and reflective of the gift of life.Michelle - [AWWNSW ENEWSLETTER AUGUST 2023](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/awwnsw-enewsletter-august-2023/) - Welcome to our August newsletter! This month we have again understood deeply that grief is the price we pay for love. Not only we have all felt the loss of Diana Bland recently, but as a veteran community, our hearts also broke for the four families of Captain Danniel Lyon, Lieutenant Maxwell Nugent, Warrant Officer Class Two Joseph - [VETERAN FAMILY TOWN HALL](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/veteran-family-town-hall-2/) - By now, most of our members are aware of the work we are doing to ensure that war widows and veterans\' families retain their importance place within our community. Through revising our brand, we are making sure that war widows in NSW remain connected to their community, our services improve and their legacy lives on. - [AWWNSW Branding Q&A](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/awwnsw-branding-qa/) - Together we have worked hard to ensure that war widows and their families are not forgotten, left out, or disadvantaged because of their loved one’s death and service. We need to keep on leading because in Australia, support for veterans’ families is conditional on the entitlements of the veteran and they are largely invisible until - [Ensuring No Veteran Family is Left Behind](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/ensuring-no-veteran-family-is-left-behind/) - Our legacy started with the vision of the Vasey family and a need to stand up for the needs of civilian women in the post-WWII era. In over seven decades, we have provided peer connection, social support and advocated strongly whilst ensuring war widows and their families are empowered so they can live their best - [The Unique Nature of YOUR service](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/the-unique-needs-of-veterans-families/) - This year marks 50 years on from when Australia withdrew from Vietnam. While this war bought lessons and progress to the programs and services on offer to veterans, there has been very limited movement on the support available to their families. Since 2014, we as a sector have had access to information and data about - [AGM registrations are open!](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/agm-registrations-are-open/) - AWWNSW Annual General Meeting registrations are now open. The meeting will commence at 10am on 29 August 2023 at the Rydges Sydney Central. We welcome your attendance from 9:30am for morning tea prior to the commencement of the meeting. A light lunch will follow the meeting for members attending in person. If you would like - [Support the AWWNSW Change Makers at City2Surf](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/support-the-awwnsw-change-makers-at-city2surf/) - The AWWNSW team is leaving nothing and no one behind as we make our way through Sydney for this year\'s biggest fun run, the City2Surf, in support of veterans\' families! Join the Change Makers or donate today! The Change Makers will run/walk the City2Surf to raise funds for AWWNSW. It is also an opportunity for - [AWWNSW ENEWSLETTER JUNE 2023](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-nsw-enews/) - Welcome to our June Newsletter! Our team is again busy organising regional visits and are excited to see our community. These visits are as special to us as they are to you! Don’t forget to send us any pictures you might like to have featured!We are also still busy on the advocacy front with our - [Support the Changemakers!](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/support-the-changemakers/) - Calling all change makers! AWWNSW has entered a team in the City2Surf event to raise funds for our programs and services that support veteran families. You don\'t have to be a runner to join our team - we have groups for runners, walkers, and those who prefer a mix of both. Join us for a - [2024 AVCAT Scholarships](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/2024-avcat-scholarships-open/) - Your child or grandchild may be eligible for the AVCAT tertiary scholarship between $4,000 and $6,000! 2024 AVCAT scholarship applications open on 18 August, including the Australian War Widows NSW Scholarship, and close at midnight 31 October 2023. AVCAT is a national charity that manages a range of tertiary education scholarships and bursaries for the children - [Scholarship Recipient Announcement](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/6730-2/) - Our AWWNSW CEO Renee Wilson was recently awarded the Ferris Family Fellowship during the Harvard Club of Australia Luncheon. With this Fellowship, Renee will attend a week-long course about managing and leading Non-For-Profit Organisations at Harvard University in the US. “I am so excited and grateful for the opportunity. It has come at the perfect - [AWWNSW ENEWSLETTER MAY 2023](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/awwnsw-enewsletter-may-2023/) - Welcome to our May Newsletter! April and May are significant months for the veterans community as numerous commemorative events and anniversaries fall on these two months. We have been busy attending these events and sharing as much as possible with you through social media platforms and our publications. It was also an opportunity for - [International Nurses Day](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/international-nurses-day/) - On International Nurses Day 12 May 2023, Board Member Jennifer Collins AM acknowledged her respect to her nursing peers and highlighted the service of Ethel Lane AM MBE a nurse and a war widow: “The name Ethel “Stalky” Lane AM MBE is synonymous with dedication to women’s services, veterans welfare and the Australian War Widows. - [Veterans Still Suffering 50 Years on From Vietnam War](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/veterans-still-suffering-fifty-years-on-from-vietnam-war/) - As our country is marking the 50 year anniversary of the end of its involvement in the Vietnam War this year, our Chief Executive Officer, Renee Wilson wrote an op-ed published in The Mandarin about the lessons that are still to be learned from the Vietnam War. \"It’s time for the government to lean forward - [AWWNSW Advocacy Updates](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/awwnsw-advocacy-updates/) - Update on support for bereaved children of veterans During the course of our regular Townhalls, an urgent priority regarding access to treatment for bereaved children of veterans was identified and immediately actioned. Over the course of the following 4 weeks, we worked with DVA and the Minister’s Office to understand the barriers in the system. - [ANZAC Field of Remembrance 2023](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/anzac-field-of-remembrance-2023/) - The 2023 ANZAC Field of Remembrance has come to a close and we reflect on the touching display of honour and remembrance for our fallen heroes. Our AWWNSW CEO Renee Wilson summed it up perfectly: \"It was the usual high standard. It was moving. It was thought-provoking. It was special. It was about the families - [AWWNSW marks 50 years since the end of Australia\'s involvement in the Vietnam War](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/awwnsw-marks-50-years-since-the-end-of-australias-involvement-in-the-vietnam-war/) - On April 29, we marked 58 years since Australian troops committed to the Vietnam War, and this year will mark 50 years since the end of Australia\'s involvement in this conflict. Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Matt Keogh noted the significance of the Anniversary and paid tribute to those who served in the defence of - [AWWNSW ENEWSLETTER APRIL 2023](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/awwnsw-enewsletter-april-2023/) - Welcome to our April Newsletter! Welcome to this April 2023 special edition of our Newsletter dedicated to our upcoming Field of Remembrance! You will find information on how to be involved this year, whether you are near or far including: What ANZAC Day means to war widows and information about the ANZAC Day march The - [The 70th RSL and Schools Remember ANZAC Commemoration and Inaugural Exhibition](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/the-70th-rsl-and-schools-remember-anzac-commemoration-and-inaugural-exhibition/) - Australian War Widows NSW State President, Queen Dunbar laid a wreath on behalf of AWWNSW at the recent 70th RSL and Schools Remember ANZAC Commemoration at Anzac Memorial Hyde Park. The proceedings were delivered entirely by school students including the Master of Ceremonies, keynote address, readings, and musical accompaniment. The Service also included an - [Veterans\' Legislation Reform Update](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/veterans-legislation-reform-update/) - A message from AWWNSW CEO Renee Wilson Last week I attended a legislation consultation round table where the Minister for Veterans Affairs, The Hon Matt Keogh MP and DVA discussed the approach to veterans’ legislation reform. I wanted to take this opportunity to share with you my key takeaways from that meeting and our next steps. - [AWWNSW ENEWSLETTER MARCH 2023](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/awwnsw-enewsletter-march-2023/) - Welcome to our March Newsletter! A very exciting start to 2023! A lot has been happening within the state and beyond. We are excited to welcome you to this month\'s newsletter and we hope you enjoy the read. In this edition of the newsletter, we share with you the launch of Our Space ACT - [Join us at the Anzac Field of Remembrance](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/join-us-at-the-anzac-field-of-remembrance/) - War widows, women, families, and distinguished guests are invited to gather to remember and commemorate the fallen at the Anzac Field of Remembrance on Thursday, 20th April 2023 at 11.00 am. This solemn and touching event is held where the tradition began 71 years ago at St Andrew’s Cathedral, Sydney. Please register now here to - [Official Launch of Our Space ACT](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/official-launch-of-our-space-act/) - Saturday 4th March was the official launch of Our Space in the ACT! We gathered with local families for a jam-packed family fun day featuring free food from the Veterans Support Centre Belconnen food van, free ice cream at the Mellabella Gelato cart, and of course coffee from the ShotClock Espresso coffee cart! Our Space - [AWWNSW ENEWSLETTER FEBRUARY 2023](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/awwnsw-enewsletter-february-2023/) - Welcome to our February Newsletter! 2023 is an exciting year of new social groups, events, activity opportunities, partnerships, and the rebuilding of services. The next few months are particularly exciting with many events coming up for our community. Enjoy the read. A Message From the CEO A belated happy new year to you all. Whilst - [VETERAN FAMILY TOWN HALL](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/veteran-family-town-hall/) - Registrations are open for our next online Veteran Family Town Hall gathering on 28 February 2023. We will continue to explore our topic on what it is like to care for veterans who are wounded or injured as a result of their service, and what it is like to be a spouse or parent of - [OUR SPACE ACT](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/our-space-canberra/) - Calling all Defence families in Canberra. Families of Australian veterans are invited to join us in person on 4 March 2023 from 2.00 pm at the Robert Poate Centre, Gungahlin Canberra to launch Our Space Canberra. Enjoy social connections, and peer support, and broaden your networks in Canberra. At this launch event, you will hear - [AWWNSW BOARD DIRECTOR APPOINTED MEMBER OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/awwnsw-board-director-appointed-member-of-the-order-of-australia/) - Congratulations to AWWNSW Board Director and former Chair Jennifer Collins who has been appointed Member (AM) in the General Division of the Order of Australia. The Australia Day 2023 Honours List was announced by the Governor-General of Australia. Jennifer has been recognised for her significant service to veterans and their families, and to nursing. Jennifer - [Soldier On and AWWNSW sign MOU](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/soldier-on-and-awwnsw-sign-mou/) - Today Soldier On and Australian War Widows NSW (AWWNSW) made a formal commitment to work together by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), setting out the foundations for collaboration between the organisations. “Collaboration is a word we often use in the veteran community, but its meaning can be ambiguous. To collaborate we must be respectful - [Royal Commission Update](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/royal-commission-update/) - In August, the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide released it\'s interim report. The report provided an overview of the issues it had uncovered and made a series of recommendations. For those of us in the veteran community and who have lived through the system and it\'s impacts, there isn’t much new in here. - [Inaugural War Widows Day 2022](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/inaugural-war-widows-day-2022/) - “You may not have worn the uniform and you may not have been recognised with medals and monuments, but you have stood for over 100 years, stoically and silently, supporting your spouses, praying for their safe return while keeping the faith back home” - Queen Dunbar, State President NSW, Australian War Widows. War Widows Day - [5 ways to be involved in War Widows Day](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/5-ways-to-be-involved-in-war-widows-day/) - The first ever War Widows Day is set to take place on 19 October in NSW. This day will recognise the War Widow community and honour those widowed by war and Defence service. This year there will be two official events take place in Sydney to mark this significant day, plus other ways to be - [Virtual Community Town Hall](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/virtual-community-town-hall/) - Thank you to everyone who attended our third virtual community town hall on 31 August 2022. This town hall was facilitated by CEO, Renee Wilson and explored the experiences of widows and veterans’ families. The group connected through their lived experiences, and it was a privilege to watch these bonds start to form. The group - [Chatswood Social Club 35 years of friendship](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/35-years-of-friendship/) - The Chatswood War Widows Social Club recently and graciously invited War Widows from across Sydney’s Northern Suburbs to join them in a special luncheon. The Luncheon was held at Chatswood RSL Club where Coordinator, Elizabeth Wright, and her members meet monthly. The Chatswood Social Club has been meeting for 35 years and they enjoy the - [WAR WIDOWS NSW ELECTS NEW CHAIR TO BOARD](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-nsw-elects-new-chair-to-board/) - On 30 August 2022 War Widows NSW welcomed Ms Tricia Hobson as the newly elected Chair of the Board of Directors. Tricia has been on the Board of Directors since 2019 and brings with her a wealth of knowledge and experience. Tricia is a partner at law firm DLA Piper and former partner at Norton - [FAMILIES NEED TO BE AT THE HEART OF REFORM](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/families-need-to-be-at-the-heart-of-reform/) - The Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide recently released its interim report, sharing 13 recommendations for the veteran community. Over the past year, the Commission has received more than 1,900 submissions including our own, those of some of our members and within our community. Our CEO Renee Wilson wrote an opinion article for The - [NEW DAY ACKNOWLEDGING NSW WAR WIDOWS](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/new-day-acknowledging-nsw-war-widows/) - We are honoured to have join with the NSW Government and our Patron the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC QC Governor, in announcing that the 19th of October will now be known as War Widows’ Day in NSW. At the Premier\'s Vietnam Veterans\' Day reception, War Widows Day was announced. Minister for Veterans\', the Hon. David - [Rising cost of living for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/rising-cost-of-living-for-veteran-families/) - Recently we have published two articles on the cost of living and the impacts on war widows, particularly for those on pensions. The articles published by Defence Connect and the NewsCorp media outlets call for pension review as costs continue to rise. Board Chair, Jennifer Collins; State President Queen Dunbar and NSW Life Member, Meg - [Calling all families of veterans](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/calling-all-families-of-veterans/) - Are you a family member of a veteran? We want to hear from you We are hosting an online Town Hall gathering on 31 August 2022 to discuss your thoughts on the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide. Importantly we want to learn more about the barriers you face in supporting yourselves, your - [Representing your views at the heart of the Royal Commission](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/royal-commission-australian-war-widows-nsw/) - Recently, our CEO accepted an invitation to join the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide Reference Group. As a member of this group, we join partner organisations from around the veteran community, exploring the issues the Commission is examining and testing ideas. The Royal Commission wants to hear what you are thinking, they want - [Chatswood Office Survey Results](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/chatswood-office-survey-results/) - Thank you to all of those who took the time to share your views on the Chatswood Office. Your feedback was very important and was used by the CEO to formulate the options presented to the Board. 47 individuals answered the survey and key findings were as follows: The survey showed overwhelming support (74%) - [We want to hear from you!](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/we-want-to-hear-from-you/) - As many of you have read in The Digest, we have recently introduced virtual Community Townhalls as a way to increase connection between the executive and members as well as gain your input, feedback and views on matters affecting the organisation. The third of these Townhalls will take place on 31 August 2022. If you have - [2022 Annual General Meeting](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/2022-annual-general-meeting/) - The Annual General Meeting of Members of Australian War Widows NSW Ltd will take place on Thursday, 16 June 2022, from 10:00am AEST with attendance in person and via Zoom video meeting. We welcome your attendance from 9:30am for Morning Tea prior to the commencement of the meeting. A light lunch will follow the meeting - [5 Tips To Enhance Your Immune System](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tips-to-enhance-your-immune-system/) - Special thank you to our resident volunteer Health Coach for this article. This coming winter and flu season is expected to be a difficult time as we emerge from COVID related lockdowns and isolation. With more people circulating in the community this year than over the last two years, it is important to be - [AWWNSW eNewsletter May 2022](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/enewslettermay2022/) - Welcome to the May Newsletter! In this edition of the newsletter, you will find photographs from the 70th Anniversary of the ANZAC Field of Remembrance, an update on the 2022 Annual General Meeting (AGM), Chatswood Office Survey Results, the Townhall schedule and much more. The central theme throughout this newsletter is two-way communication. We - [Watch Anzac Field of Remembrance online!](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/watch-anzac-field-of-remembrance-online/) - Join us online to commemorate 70 years of the Anzac Field of Remembrance. At 11.00am on Wednesday 20 April 2022, view the service from St Andrew’s Cathedral on our Facebook page or our YouTube channel. Watch the service online from the comfort of your own home, share it with friends and family, or with - [Are you looking for a job that brings you meaning and purpose?](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/are-you-looking-for-a-job-that-brings-you-meaning-and-purpose/) - A job that brings you meaning and purpose? Well than guess what…we have two vacancies for two individuals to join our team during April and May 2022. Both positions are in our Communications and Events Team. We want to hear from those with experience and passion in delivering communications and events outcomes. The first position - [Call for nominations for Company Directors](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/call-for-nominations/) - Dear Members, The AWWNSW 2022 Annual General Meeting (AGM) is scheduled to take place in June. At the AGM three elected positions become available on the Board of Directors. Two Directors, Ms Rhondda Vanzella OAM and Ms Barbara Jeanes are retiring from their roles following the completion of their respective terms under clause 8.5 - [70th Anniversary of the Anzac Field of Remembrance](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/70th-anniversary-of-the-anzac-field-of-remembrance/) - There is still time to register. Book here. The Anzac Field of Remembrance honours and pays tribute those who have served and gave their lives in service to our nation. It is a symbol of self-sacrifice. This poignant service continues to give the widows of war, and their families the opportunity to continue history - [AWWNSW eNewsletter March 2022](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/awwnsw-enewsletter-march-2022/) - I am so pleased that Guild and Social Clubs have been getting together since the beginning of March. We know how important it is for our members to connect face-to-face and are pleased that this can now be achieved in a COVID safe manner. In just a few weeks time, the 70th anniversary of the - [FREE School Holiday Online Activities](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/free-school-holiday-online-activities/) - Are you looking for some fun and easy activities to do with your children or grandchildren at home during these April School Holidays? Would you like to join other women and families who also have a connection to defence service? We are excited to offer online activities that foster fun hands-on family connections! - [NSW Women's Week](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/nsw-womens-week/) - During NSW Women’s Week and International Women\'s Day on 8 March, we shine a light on gender bias within our community. The impacts of service in the Australian Defence Force (ADF) disproportionately affect women in tangible and intangible ways. For example, it is well known that many women, civilian in particular, struggle to develop and - [Stay safe](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/stay-safe/) - Emergency and disaster information We thank everyone in the community who has shown tremendous bravery and care helping others in need during these immense catastrophic weather conditions. We hope our members and followers are staying safe and well cared for. Thank you to our members, volunteers and staff for checking in on each other over - [Prevalence of elder abuse](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/prevalence-of-elder-abuse/) - In February 2022 the Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS) released the findings of its first study into the prevalence of elder abuse within the Australian community. Elder abuse is a single or repeated act; or lack of appropriate action occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust that causes harm of - [AWWNSW eNewsletter February 2022](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-nsw-enewsletter-februrary2022/) - Since our last e-news update, we have been further challenged by life with COVID-19. Some of us have been affected by restrictions and isolation. If you, or someone you know, is having a tough time and needs support, information, or guidance, please reach out to our office at guild@warwidowsnsw.com.au, 02 9267 6577, or one - [Have your say and help shape a future free from gender-based violence](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/have-your-say-and-help-shape-a-future-free-from-gender-based-violence/) - Have your say and help shape a future free from gender-based violence in Australia. It is important that the voices of those within the Defence and Veteran community are heard. We know far too little about gender-based violence within the Defence and Veteran community. We know it exists, we know that women who experience it - [Tribunal recommendations recognise the sacrifices made by veterans’ families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tribunal-recommendations-recognise-the-sacrifices-made-by-veterans-families/) - Australian War Widows NSW welcomes the recommendations made by the Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal to acknowledge the sacrifices made by veteran families through medallic and emblematic recognition. For the first time in the history of the Australian Defence Force, the Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal (Tribunal) recommends that the family of a - [AWWNSW Board Director appointed Member of the Order of Australia](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/congratulations-major-general-susan-coyle-csc-dsm/) - Congratulations to AWWNSW Board Director Major General Susan Coyle CSC DSM who has been appointed Member (AM) of the Order of Australia during the Australia Day 2022 Honours List announced by the Governor-General. This was awarded for exceptional performance of duty as the Commander Joint Task Force 633 on Operation ACCORDION from January to November 2020. AWWNSW is privileged to have Major General Susan Coyle CSC DSM - [Online classes are back!](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/online-health-and-wellbeing-program/) - Our online health and wellbeing program had a break over the holiday season but has now officially returned. Here is the 2022 class schedule: Chair Yoga – Tuesday 12.30pm, Thursday 11am Singing Lessons – Wednesday 10am Modified Dance – Friday 10am Not yet signed up to one of our enjoyable and relaxing classes? Improve your - [Casual and Volunteer Callout](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/casual-and-volunteer-callout/) - AWWNSW has exciting work and projects in the pipeline We are seeking enthusiastic casual and volunteer talent to be actively involved in many facets of the organisation. Expressions of interest are open! If you are interested in Administration, Advocacy, Communications and Marketing, Events, Peer Support or Project Support and Service Delivery, contact us today. If - [Pen Pal Program - Register your interest!](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/pen-pal-program/) - Australian War Widows Queensland has run a successful pen pal program, connecting widows throughout the state. The ladies who have received a letter from their pen pal say it “made their day so much better”. You could be part of this valued program too and make your own pen pal! AWWQ has one member - [Remembrance Day](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/remembrance-day-2021/) - On the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month, a minutes’ silence is observed and dedicated to those service men and women who fought and served to protect our nation. 11 November, originally known as Armistice Day, was a day to remember those who died in World War One. Today the loss - [Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide - AWWNSW Statement](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/royal-commission-into-defence-and-veteran-suicide-awwnsw-statement/) - Australian War Widows NSW (AWWNSW) recently made a written submission to the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide. Due to its experience, leadership, and network, AWWNSW has formed a view on several items raised by the Commissioners. The opinions expressed through and by AWWNSW below were formed through consultation with members, its broad community, - [AVCAT scholarships closing soon!](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/avcat-scholarship-closing-soon/) - Your child or grandchild may be eligible for the AVCAT tertiary scholarship. The AVCAT Tertiary scholarships are open to children and grandchildren of Australian ex-serving veterans. Applications close in 3 days time! Scholarships provide up to $4000 per year, for three years, to full-time students at uni, TAFE or a registered training organisation. Many Scholars - [Founders Day](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/founders-day-the-story-of-jessie-vasey/) - Today, on Founders Day, we remember and celebrate our founder Mrs Jessie Mary Vasey OBE CBE, born in Roma, Queensland on 19 October 1897. Born Jessie Mary Halbert, Jessie was the eldest of three girls, daughter of a Queensland grazier, and a university graduate with first-class honours. Jessie Halbert married George Alan Vasey on 17 - [The power of friendships](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/the-power-of-friendships/) - What do our members value most? “Friendships. People I didn’t really know particularly well before COVID-19 and now they’re like best friends.” The power of friendships is something AWW NSW does not take for granted. Our community is central to our organisation. Staying connected is so important to us and our members. We are thrilled - [Interview with Rachel McGrath](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/interview-with-rachel-mcgrath/) - “Just remember that there\'s a very big strong family of community out there for you.” Recently, Renee Wilson CEO of Australian War Widows NSW had the opportunity to interview Rachel McGrath, wife of triple Paralympic gold medalist, Curtis McGrath. They discussed what it is like to be the wife of a veteran and athlete, - [AVCAT Scholar Megan Beecher](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/avcat-scholar-megan-beecher/) - Meet Megan Beecher, Australian Veterans’ Children Assistance Trust (AVCAT) Scholar. In 2020, Megan was the recipient of the AVCAT Australian War Widows NSW Scholarship. The support provided by AWW NSW to Megan continues throughout her Bachelor of Primary Education (Dean’s Scholar) study until 2023. Megan’s grandfather, Major Arthur McDermott (Grandpa Mac, as he was - [70 years of Vice Regal Patronage](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/aww-nsw-patronage/) - We are honoured to receive this very special message from Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC QC. Her Excellency, our Patron, prepared this message for our members as they met with the Board of Directors today for our 22nd Annual General Meeting. Thank you to all our members for joining our AGM today and - [A message from my veteran family to yours](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/a-message-from-my-veteran-family-to-yours/) - To veteran families, it is to you, that I address my message. For those that are left behind carrying the scars of war, be them your own or your loved ones, I want you to know that your sacrifice also matters. Without you, they couldn’t have done what they did. They couldn’t have answered the - [Media Release - Australian Veterans of Afghanistan](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/media-release-australian-veterans-of-afghanistan/) - A call to reach out to Australian veterans and families of the Afghanistan war Considering the transpiring situation in Afghanistan, Australian War Widows NSW (AWW NSW) calls on the veteran community and their families to support each other during this time. The war in the Middle East has affected so many civilians and profoundly - [Australian Veterans of Afghanistan](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/australian-veterans-of-afghanistan/) - Well, what a few months this has been for Australian Veterans of Afghanistan and their families. It is difficult to read about the transpiring situation in Afghanistan and the plight of the civilians. While there has been much talk of the removal of troops, I have heard little directed toward those whose souls burnt out - [Your voices were heard](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/your-voices-were-heard/) - AWW NSW advocates for the needs of all women and families of veterans connected to Defence service. We provide a voice for our members and community to ensure their views are represented across all areas that impact upon them. We thank everyone who participated in the consultation sessions regarding the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide Terms - [ENewsletter July 2021](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/enewsletter-july-2021/) - Dear Members, I hope everyone is staying safe and well during these particularly challenging times. COVID-19 continues to challenge us all. Our office in Sydney remains closed; however, all staff continue to work from home and are there for you. At this time, our Social and Guild clubs in the Greater Sydney, Blue Mountains, Central - [Nominations for Company Directors](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/nominations-for-company-directors/) - Dear Members As some of you may be aware, we have a number of positions on the Board of Directors which will become available at the AGM this year. One position has become vacant following the resignation of Ms Gwen Cherne during 2020. Two positions become vacant following the completion of elected terms, as - [Connect relax and learn](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/connect-relax-learn/) - Connect, relax and learn new skills with like-minded people through the Digital Health and Wellbeing Program. The AWW NSW Digital Health and Wellbeing Program allows you to enjoy online classes and stay connected, all from the comfort of your home. All classes are free for AWW NSW members. What is the Digital Health and Wellbeing - [AWW NSW Office Closed](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/aww-nsw-office-closed/) - Chatswood office closure With the developing situation across Sydney regarding COVID-19 and inline with current restrictions, the AWW NSW Chatswood office is closed. Staff are working from home and the office phone lines will be diverted to a team member, so there may be a delay in attending to your call. Alternatively, we are - [Our voices have never been more important](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/aww-nsw-celebrates-75-years/) - AWW NSW celebrates 75 years. I want to tell you a story. A story of one woman who stood tall, who stood up for what she believed in, who devoted her life to service and empowering others. A woman who had a unique ability to tell it like it was, to inspire activity, unity and - [Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/submission-on-the-terms-of-reference/) - AWW NSW Submission on the Terms of Reference Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide AWW NSW advocates for the needs of all women and families of veterans connected to defence service. We provide a voice for our members and community, ensuring that their views are represented across all areas that impact upon them. - [ANZAC Day commemorations](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/anzac-day-commemorations/) - On the eve of ANZAC Day, we came together in person, and in spirit, to commemorate the men and women who have served our nation at the Field of Remembrance. Many of our members took the opportunity to commemorate in their own time and own personal way. Some commemorated in the community - from a - [ANZAC and Field of Remembrance Service 2021](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/anzac-and-field-of-remembrance-service/) - From the service organisers, to our War Widows, distinguished guests, school children and the wider community who joined us, your presence and contribution made this a truly memorable morning. A special mention goes to the Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway for joining with us this year to host a very touching, unique and professional commemoration. - [Have you heard? We are hiring!](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/have-year-heard-we-are-hiring/) - Join Australian War Widows NSW, where meaning and purpose unite. We are embarking on the biggest change we have ever made in our 75-year history. There are three critical roles to fill to help us reach our potential - Executive Officer to the CEO, Administration Assistant and Communications and Events Officer. About us We are - [Media Release - ANZAC & Field of Remembrance Service 2021](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/media-release-anzac-field-of-remembrance-service-2021/) - Generations and organisations join to remember the fallen and support veteran’s families For the first time in 69 years, Australian War Widows NSW (AWW NSW) and the Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway unite to host a combined ANZAC and Field of Remembrance service to remember the fallen and commemorate the men and women who have - [Field of Remembrance cross personalising for war widows](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/field-remembrance-cross-personalising/) - Join us for Field of Remembrance cross personalising in Chatswood on 14 April 2025. Honour your loved ones & connect with peers. Afternoon tea provided. - [Ballina war widows regional visit](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/ballina-war-widows-visit/) - War widows gathered in Ballina for a special luncheon, reconnecting and sharing updates on support programs, social clubs, and the new War Widows Social Group. - [Veterans Legislation Update](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/veterans-legislation-update/) - The first step on a long journey of reform A significant step toward system reform was made on 3 July when the Veterans’ Entitlements, Treatment and Support (Simplification and Harmonisation) Bill 2024 was introduced into Parliament. For so long this piece of work has been deemed too difficult and unpopular therefore nothing has changed. We - [Veterans Families Voices Matter](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/veterans-families-voices-matter/) - The Senate launches an inquiry into the Defence honours and awards system. We invite veteran families to share their views to help shape our submission. - [A place to call home for Ryde’s War Widows](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/rydes-war-widows-event/) - North Ryde War Widows Social Club celebrated two members’ 100th birthdays and honored WWII widows with special medallions in a touching event. - [Closing the Digital Divide - Online Safety 101](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/closing-the-digital-divide-online-safety/) - Learn online safety with tips on avoiding viruses, Trojans, and spyware. Discover how antivirus software, firewalls, and careful email handling keep you secure. - [Our regional visit to Forster-Tuncurry](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/our-regional-visit-forster-tuncurry-region/) - Successful regional visit by our War Widows Program, fostering community bonds in Forster-Tuncurry with heartfelt connections, updates, and future plans for social group activities. - [The Younger Members Social Club Mothers' Day Lunch](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/the-younger-members-social-club-mothers-day-lunch/) - Join the War Widows Younger Members Social Club! Our inaugural Mothers’ Day Luncheon at The Mazzaro Restaurant was a hit with laughter, delicious food, and heartfelt connections. Perfect for war widows, veteran, and defence families. - [Read about our Cronulla War Widows Social Club Monthly Meeting](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/read-about-our-cronulla-war-widows-social-club-monthly-meeting/) - Discover War Widows’ Social Clubs! Celebrate special moments with monthly events, engaging speakers, and scenic views. Ideal for war widows, veteran, and defence families. - [Easter craft and egg hunt for defence and veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/easter-craft-egg-hunt/) - Join our free Easter Egg Hunt & craft event for defence & veteran families! Connect, create & celebrate at Kissingpoint Cottage on April 16. Register now! - [Kiama war widows regional visit](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/kiama-surrounds-regional-visit/) - Families of Veterans Guild hosted a luncheon at Kiama Leagues Club, uniting war widows and families for connection, key updates, and a day of friendship. - [Field of Remembrance](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/field-of-remembrance/) - Field of Remembrance - we are all part of the story The ANZAC Field of Remembrance began in 1952 when Mrs C J Pope, widow of Rear-Admiral C J Pope, RAN, assisted by the War Widows’ Guild, organised the first Field in the grounds of St Andrew’s Cathedral, Sydney. Mrs Pope conceived the idea of - [Recognising veterans and families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/recognising-veterans-and-families/) - Recognising veterans and families. You spoke and we listened. Our submission to the Defence Honours and Awards Tribunal has been lodged. We recently asked for your views to help us write our submission to the Defence Honours and Awards Tribunal for an inquiry into the recognition for Australian Defence Force members and families injured, wounded - [Meaning and Purpose Unite!](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/meaning-and-purpose-unite/) - Australian War Widows NSW, a place where meaning and purpose unite. We are seeking expressions of interest from all of those within our community and beyond who have an interest in helping us build a new future for all Women, Veterans and Families united by Defence Service. Over the next 12 months we will seek - [Support for Inquiry into Veteran Suicide](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/royal-commission-into-veteran-suicides/) - Australian War Widows NSW welcomes any inquiry that examines the causes, issues and systems that impact upon veterans and their families. With the rate of veteran suicide more than twice the national average, and even higher for female veterans, it is important that critical lessons are learned and applied in a coordinated effort. The matter - [Stay Calm Stay Safe](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/stay-calm-stay-safe/) - Stay Calm Stay Safe - Flood Information I hope you are all keeping safe during this very volatile weather event. These resources might help if you are affected by the rain and floods, or know others in our community that are. First and foremost, the emergency numbers: NSW SES - 132 500 Non-urgent Police Assistance - [We rise by lifting others](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/international-womens-day/) - International Women\'s Day - We Rise By Lifting Others Our story is one of women helping women. What better way to celebrate International Women’s Day 2021 than to pay tribute to some of the women who have carried AWW on their shoulders? Recently we celebrated just some of the amazing women in our AWW NSW - [Aged Care Royal Commission](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/aged-care-royal-commission/) - As an organisation that currently represents over 2,000 older women, we are deeply concerned about the issues and incidents highlighted in the findings from the Aged Care Royal Commission report. On behalf of our members and all older Australians, we expect the recommendations to be implemented to lift the quality and standards of care of - [Historical appointment](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/historical-appointment/) - We are delighted to announce the historical appointment of National and NSW State President of the Australian War Widows, Rhondda Vanzella OAM to the Council of the Australian War Memorial. This is a appointment is the first for a President of a War Widows organisation to the Australian War Memorial. We are thrilled Rhondda will - [Have your say](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/have-your-say/) - Have your say.... Recognition for Veterans and Families Injured, Wounded or Killed On 21 January 2021, the Australian Government announced that the Defence Honours and Awards Tribunal would inquire into and; report on, recognition for members and families of members of the Australian Defence Force who are injured, wounded or killed in or as a - [War Widows NSW eNewsletter Update](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-nsw-enewsletter-update-11/) - Dear Members, Firstly, I would like to thank everyone who completed our survey. We have been amazed at the over 600 responses. Your feedback will help us shape the future of our organisation and develop services and support for the growing needs of our existing and new members. As the year progresses, we look - [Health and Wellbeing Program returns](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/health-and-wellbeing/) - We are excited to announce that our Digital Health & Wellbeing Program resumes from Tuesday 2nd February, with all our member favourites returning to the schedule. These are challenging times for many us and especially for those in our AWW NSW regional community. While some of our usual social and physical activities may be a - [War Widows NSW eNewsletter - January 2021 edition](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-nsw-enewsletter-january-2021-edition/) - Dear Member, Happy New Year! I hope that you were able to enjoy some time with family and friends over the holiday season. I am excited about what 2021 will bring us, this year we will be embracing our new constitution and walking forward together. There is a lot of opportunity for us to grow this - [THE DIGEST - Christmas edition](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/the-digest-christmas-edition/) - The Digest - Christmas edition has been sent to all members! Look out for your copy in the mail or follow click here to view online. - [War Widows NSW eNewsletter - Remembrance Day edition](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-nsw-enewsletter-remembrance-day-edition/) - Dear Members, Welcome to a special edition of the members’ newsletter, dedicated to Remembrance Day. This is a poignant day for us and our families, as we take the time to pause and remember the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. To remember and show our appreciation to loved ones no - [War Widows NSW eNewsletter Update](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/3245-2/) - Dear Members, It is amazing to think we are already nearing the end of October, and the holiday season is just around the corner. It is a very exciting time for War Widows NSW, as Jill Deering joins the organisation as our new CEO. Jill has extensive experience in the health and ageing sector, you - [Join our new programs using Zoom!](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/join-our-new-programs-using-zoom/) - Online video calling platforms like Zoom, are a popular way of keeping in touch and engaging in activities, especially when you cannot participate in a physical space or due to restrictions such as mobility, transport or time. Over the next few weeks we welcome you to join our exciting new sessions. Why not invite a family member or friend to join - [War Widows NSW eNewsletter Update](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-nsw-enewsletter-update-9/) - Dear Members, As we enter spring, now is a good time to pause and think about how we can ensure we maintain our social connections and stay as active as possible. As jacaranda season is approaching, keep a look out for the beautiful blossom in bloom! Send us photos of your gardens or any spring - [War Widows NSW eNewsletter Update](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-nsw-enewsletter-update-8/) - Dear Members, During such uncertain times, it is reassuring to reflect on the past and look to the future with hope and determination. We were inspired by the recent address made by Jennifer Collins (Non -Member Director and former Deputy Commissioner NSW, Department of Veterans\' Affairs). She reminded us about the mission of our founder, - [ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 2020](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/annual-general-meeting-2020/) - The latest AGM took place on Thursday 27th August, our first ever meeting via Zoom. During the meeting we heard a speech from Rhondda Vanzella OAM, President & Chair, War Widows NSW. We were also delighted to welcome Jennifer Collins (War Widow member and Deputy Commissioner, Department of Veterans\' Affairs). She reminded us about the mission - [War Widows NSW eNewsletter Update](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-nsw-enewsletter-update-7/) - Dear member, Thank you for sending us your memories of VP Day, some of which are shared in this week’s newsletter. The past couple of weeks have been very busy in preparation for our Annual General Meeting on Thursday, 27th August. I appreciate your calls and curiosity about participating at the AGM and look forward - [eNews - VP Day 2020 Special Edition](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-nsw-enewsletter-update-6/) - Dear Member, This e-newsletter, a special edition on the 75th anniversary of Victory in the Pacific Day, is particularly poignant for us as we remember the men and women who served in the Wars. I encourage you to share memories - photos, memorabilia, narratives - with us so that we can keep alive those stories - [Changes to the ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 2020](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/changes-to-annual-general-meeting-2020/) - Dear Member, We understand we continue to live in a difficult environment. As always, the welfare of our Members is our top priority, and should you be concerned about anything please contact the office as we are here to support you. As a result of COVID-19 we must exercise caution when organising events. Due to - [War Widows NSW eNewsletter Update](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-nsw-enewsletter-update-4/) - Dear Member, We are now at the start of the second half of 2020 and I hope the situation is not as dire as we have experienced so far with fires, floods and the pandemic. Please feel free to contact me or the office staff with any issues as we are always interested in helping - [War Widows NSW eNewsletter Update](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-nsw-enewsletter-update-3/) - Dear Members, We have been fortunate this week to see further lifting of restrictions and are eager to continue along a path to normality. I hope all our members have found unexpected ways to stay connected and entertained. Today, June 25, I would also like to recognise our Korean War Widows, as we acknowledge the - [War Widows NSW eNewsletter Update](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-nsw-enewsletter-update-2/) - Dear Member, While we certainly rise by lifting others, equally we appreciate being lifted by others! The pandemic has certainly brought home the value of support for each other. We need to know that a Crime Prevention Officer will respond when we call. It is also wonderful to share the news of members celebrating 100th - [E-News - ANZAC Day 2020 Special Edition](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/e-news-anzac-day-2020-special-edition/) - Thank you so much for sharing your experiences of ANZAC Day 2020. Without you, our rich ANZAC stories would be lost. Our latest eNewsletter, an ANZAC Day Special Edition, captures the continuing bond between family members, commemoration of Veterans beyond our shores, and a story of a slouch hat. Rhondda Vanzella OAM President War - [War Widows NSW eNewsletter Update](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-nsw-enewsletter-update/) - For the first time in almost a century, our streets were empty on Anzac Day. While our regular services were cancelled and familiar rituals missing, we were introduced to new ways of remembering those who served, those who died and those who are still serving. Driveway commemorations with neighbours allowed us to still pay respect - [Canberra Mothers Day photoshoot for war widows and veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/canberra-mothers-day-photoshoot/) - Free Mother’s Day mini photoshoot for Canberra war widows & veteran families! Join us on April 27, 2025, at Weston Park. Limited spots, register now! - [Sydney Mothers Day photoshoot for war widows and veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/mothers-day-photoshoot/) - Free Mother’s Day mini photoshoot for Sydney war widows & veteran families! Join us on April 13, at Centennial Park. Register now, limited spots available. - [Indoor play session at Lollipop’s Playland and Café](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/indoor-play-session/) - Join defence and veteran families for a fun play session at Lollipop’s Playland. Connect, relax, and enjoy a great time with your little ones! - [Wellbeing walk for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-walk-veteran-families/) - Join our free Wellbeing Walk on 4 April 2025 at Yerrabi Pond! Connect with defence & veteran families over a 3.5km walk + coffee. Register by 2 April! - [Baking workshop for war widows, defence and veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/baking-workshop-defence-families/) - Sydney families of ADF members are invited to a baking workshopHas any of your loved ones ever served in the Australian Defence Force? Are you connected to defence service in any way? Whether you’re the partner of a current member, a veteran spouse, parent, adult child or a widow of a veteran, we warmly invite - [Clay canvas painting workshop](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/clay-canvas-painting-workshop/) - Free online clay canvas painting workshop for defence & veteran families. Connect, create, and practice self-care. Register now, spots are limited! - [Rise Together Initiative announcement at Parliament House](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/rise-together-initiative-announcement-at-parliament-house/) - Rise Together Initiative announced at Parliament House, empowering veteran spouses with leadership grants to build careers and thrive. Learn more & apply today! - [Rise Together Initiative ](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/rise-together-initiative/) - Rise Together Initiative empowers defence and veteran partners to build career confidence through the Women in Leadership Development Program. Apply now! - [Join our team!](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/join-our-team/) - Join Families of Veterans Guild as a full-time Operations Officer and make a meaningful impact. Enjoy flexible work, training, and a supportive team. - [Media release - Announcement of the Rise Together Initiative](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/announcement-rise-together-initiative/) - In 2025, the Rise Together Initiative will provide 12 defence and veteran spouses with the ability to undertake the Women in Leadership Development Program. - [Learn to crochet poppies](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/learn-to-crochet-poppies/) - Join defence & veteran families for a free ANZAC Day poppies crochet workshop in Chatswood. Connect, create & honour service together. Morning tea provided! - [Celebrating International Women's Day: honouring Jessie Vasey and the legacy of our war widows](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/international-womens-day-legacy-war-widows/) - Join us in reflecting on the extraordinary contributions of Jessie Vasey and our war widowsAs we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, we are reminded of the incredible strength and resilience of women who have shaped history. This year, we honour Jessie Vasey CBE OBE and the Australian War Widows Guild, and the remarkable efforts of - [105-year-old war widow shares a lifetime of love and adventure](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widow-lifetime-love-adventure/) - Marie Cahill, a 105-year-old war widow, defies age and gender stereotypes with a life full of adventure, resilience, and passion. Read her inspiring story. - [Celebrating the legacy of war widows on International Women's Day](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/legacy-war-widows-international-womens-day/) - Our story is a powerful story of women helping women. On International Women’s Day, we will reflect on the achievements of the women who came before us. - [Meal planning workshop for war widows, defence and veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/meal-planning-workshop-veteran-families/) - Want to be more organised with meal-planning but not sure how or where to start? This workshop is for you: learn tips and tricks to make meal-planning more efficient and shopping a lot less painful! Who is this free activity for and why? Has your loved one ever served in the ADF? Are you connected to defence service - [Media release in response to the passing of the Veterans’ Entitlements, Treatment and Support Bill 2024](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/response-veterans-bill-2024/) - Media release - 18 February 2025 We commend the Government and Minister for Veterans, the Hon Matt Keogh for driving the Veterans' Entitlements, Treatment and Support (VETS) Bill 2024 forward and bringing about long-needed reform that will simplify the legislative framework for 581,000 Australian veterans. The Families of Veterans Guild views the harmonisation of the - [The Veterans Harmonisation Bill: what it means for war widows and what comes next](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/veterans-harmonisation-bill-what-next/) - The passage of the Veterans Harmonisation Bill marks a significant shift in the veteran support system. While it streamlines veteran entitlements under the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act (MRCA) from July 2026, there remain critical areas requiring further improvement—particularly in recognising and supporting families of veterans and removing disadvantages within the Act for war widows - [Compensation and income support for veterans: have your say](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/compensation-income-support/) - On 13 February 2025, the Senate referred an inquiry into Compensation and Income Support for Veterans to the Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Reference Committee for investigation and reporting by 5 August 2025. As part of our advocacy work, we are collating input, feedback and experiences from all members of our community. What is the - [Voices of families heard at the Senate Inquiry into the Defence Honours and Awards System](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/voices-families-senate-inquiry-defence-honours/) - Our CEO, Renee Wilson was honoured to appear at the Senate Inquiry into the Defence Honours and Awards System. - [Online meditation workshop](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/online-meditation-workshop/) - Join our free online meditation workshop for defence and veteran families on 6 March. Relax, connect, and learn mindfulness techniques. Register now! - [Wellbeing activities held for war widows and veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-activities-veteran-families/) - Defence and veteran families end January with wellbeing activities from a social catch-up at the Royal Australian Mint to a calming Kokedama plant workshop. - [Senate Committee Inquiry: Our CEO provides evidence on Defence Honours and Awards System](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/evidence-honours-awards-system/) - On Friday 7 February, our CEO, Renee Wilson, provided crucial evidence to the Senate Committee investigating the integrity of the Defence Honours and Awards System. This appearance amplifies the voices of veteran families and war widows who have shared their perspectives with us over the years.If you want to find out about the evidence provided, - [Online clay workshop](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/online-clay-workshop/) - Families of veterans are invited to a free online clay making workshop on 28 March 2025. Connect, create, and unwind from home with a free provided clay kit! - [Canberra Pompeii exhibition](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/canberra-pompeii-exhibition/) - Defence and veteran families are invited to a free visit to the Pompeii exhibition at the National Museum of Australia on 27 March 2025. Register on 20 Feb! - [Macramé wall hanging workshop](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/macrame-wall-hanging-workshop/) - Canberra defence and veteran families are invited to a free macramé workshop on 15 March 2025. Connect, create, and focus on self-care. Register now! - [Sound healing Sydney](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/sound-healing-sydney/) - Join us for a free sound healing session in Cronulla on 2 March 2025, supporting veteran families with relaxation, self-care, and peer connection. Register now! - [Wellbeing activities starting off the new year](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-activities-new-year/) - Defence and veteran families begin 2025 with wellbeing activities, including a fun day at Dee Why RSL and a vision board workshop over Zoom! - [Stories of courage and sacrifice](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/stories-courage-sacrifice/) - Honouring the resilience and sacrifices of Australia’s war widows, War Widows Day highlights stories of courage and unity. Discover more in our seasonal digest. - [Understanding the role of a carer](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/understanding-carer-roles/) - Discover if you're a carer and access vital support. Providing ongoing care to a loved one? Recognising your role is the first step to finding help. - [War widows visit Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/younger-member-kokoda-track/) - Younger members explored the Kokoda Track Memorial, honouring courage and sacrifice with immersive VR, heartfelt stories, and a wreath-laying ceremony. - [Kokedama and terracotta workshop](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/kokedama-terracotta-workshop/) - Join our free Kokedama and Terracotta Workshop for veteran families in Chatswood! Saturday 22 February. Craft, connect, and enjoy morning tea. Register now! - [Kokedama workshop](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/kokedama-workshop/) - Defence and veteran families invited to join our free kokedama workshop! Craft, connect & recharge with peers. 23 Jan 2025, Kissingpoint Cottage, Dundas. - [Coffee catch up for families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/coffee-catch-up-for-families/) - Defence & Veteran families invited for a coffee catch up at the Royal Australian Mint on 17 Jan 2025. Connect, explore, and enjoy a free wellbeing day! - [Online journaling workshop for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/online-journaling-workshop/) - Join our free online Journaling Workshop for veteran families on Fri, 21 February. Connect, reflect, and nurture wellbeing. Register now! - [Ukulele workshop for Canberra veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/ukulele-workshop-veteran-families/) - Join our free 4-week Ukulele Workshop for veteran families in Canberra! Fridays, 28 February - 21 March, 9:30–11:30 AM. Connect, learn, and have fun! - [Online clay workshop for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/veteran-families-clay-workshop/) - Join our free online Clay Workshop for veteran and defence families on Feb 6. Enjoy self-care, connect with peers, and create art together. Clay kit provided. - [Batemans Bay regional visit](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/batemans-bay-regional-visit/) - Festive luncheon at Batemans Bay Soldiers Club brings 41 guests together, fostering connections, celebrating milestones, and sharing War Widows updates. - [The Entrance Christmas lunch](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/entrance-regional-lunch/) - Festive Christmas luncheon hosted by The Entrance War Widows fosters community, connection, and cheer with 34 attendees, new bonds, and exciting updates. - [Online vision board workshop](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/online-vision-board-workshop/) - Join our free online vision board workshop for Defence & Veteran families on 16 Jan 2025. Set goals, connect, and focus on self-care. - [Timezone activity](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/timezone-activity/) - Join us for a free day of fun for defence and veteran families at Timezone Dee Why! Bowling, arcade games, and more on 16 January - [Managing grief at Christmas time](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/managing-grief-christmas-time/) - Struggling with grief this Christmas? Learn how to cope with loss during the holiday season: find solace and strength in our guide to navigating grief. - [The Governor General meets our Board Chair and CEO](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/meeting-governor-general/) - Meeting Governor-General Sam Mostyn AO, discussing the support for war widows, defence families, and veteran families, and our vision for care. - [Tamworth regional visit](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tamworth-regional-visit/) - A meaningful reunion in Tamworth, bringing war widows together to connect, share updates, and celebrate lasting friendships. - [Wellbeing programs recent events](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-programs-recent-events/) - How our Social Work and Wellbeing Program brought defence and veteran families together this November through activities like yoga, art, and photoshoots. - [Navigating resentment and forgiveness](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/navigating-resentment-forgiveness/) - How war widows and defence families can navigate resentment, embrace forgiveness, and reclaim peace with practical, empowering steps - [War widows gather for Christmas lunch](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/younger-members-christmas-lunch/) - Celebrating community and connection: 46 younger war widows gathered for a festive Christmas luncheon at Mazzaro Restaurant in Sydney, fostering joy and unity. - [Orange regional visit](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/orange-regional-visit/) - A warm gathering of war widows in Orange, fostering connections, sharing updates, and celebrating community support. - [The poppy project brought to life](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/poppy-project/) - The Poppy Project at the Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway, where 7,500 handcrafted poppies created by war widows and community members honour veterans. - [Government’s Response to the Royal Commission’s Final Report](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/governments-response-royal-commission/) - Australian Government responds to Defence and Veteran Suicide report, agreeing to key recommendations but more needs to be done for veteran families. - [Are veterans and their families a priority in Canberra? ](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/veterans-families-canberra-priority/) - ACT veterans and their families deserve better The ACT election is around the corner, and at Families of Veterans Guild, we are wondering, are veterans and their families really a priority for the ACT Government? Over the last four years we have seen: Ongoing under resourcing of veteran liaison services at Canberra Hospital. Failure to - [Contribute to the National Carer Strategy Consultation](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/carer-strategy-consultation/) - Join the conversation on the National Carer Strategy. Share your insights and help shape the future for war widows, veterans and defence families. Read more. - [How the Friendship Line Connects War Widows Across Generations](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/friendship-line-war-widows/) - Support and Connection for Defence and Veterans Families: Discover the Friendship Line for War Widows - [How to cope as a defence spouse: tips from a war widow](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tips-defence-spouses/) - Anne shares her journey as a Navy wife, the challenges she faced, & how she found support after his passing through advocacy & community connections. - [War Widows Reconnect: Celebrating Community and Support](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-chatswood-club/) - Our War Widows Program is dedicated to supporting and connecting war widows. We ensure war widows remain connected with their peers and community. - [Sound Healing Experiences For Defence Families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/defence-families-sound-healing/) - Our wellbeing events create a place for defence & veteran families to connect, build a network, form friendships and share insights, and powerful stories. - [When generations come together to connect through art](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/veterans-families-art-day/) - Families of Defence and veterans came together at our Chatswood Art Day, connecting across generations through creative projects and shared experiences. - [ANZAC Day wrap](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/anzac-day-wrap/) - Celebrate and honour the sacrifices of war widows, veteran families, and defence families. Join us in remembrance and support during ANZAC Week. - [The Royal Commission hands over lived experience book to the Governor General](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/royal-commission-lived-experience-book/) - The Royal Commission’s book 'Shining a Light' exposes veteran and family stories, urging systemic reform and ongoing support. - [The direct impact of our Advocacy Program](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/the-direct-impact-of-our-advocacy-program/) - Learn how our advocacy has achieved key benefits for veteran families, including mental health support, reduced costs, and enhanced entitlements for war widows. - [War Widows regional visits - Newcastle and Surrounds](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/newcastle-surrounds-regional-visit/) - Successful event at Wallsend Diggers in Newcastle reconnected members, celebrated milestones, & fostered community spirit with shared stories, & new friendships - [Defence Families Community Art Day - July](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/defence-families-art-day-july/) - Join us July 12-13 in Chatswood for Intergenerational Community Art Day. Connect veteran families through a free art and sound healing event! - [Volunteers Lunch](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/volunteers-lunch/) - Celebrating National Volunteers Week with a special lunch, honoring volunteers for their invaluable contributions to the war widows' community. - [Wellbeing Event - June](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-event/) - Join veteran families in Cronulla for a relaxing sound healing session followed by a beach picnic, fostering connection and wellness. - [Join our Webinar "Understanding intimate partner violence and family domestic violence: context & action"](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/join-our-webinar-understanding-intimate-partner-violence-and-family-domestic-violence-context-action/) - Join our webinar on May 20 at 4:30pm to understand intimate partner and family domestic violence. Hear from Dr. Sean Cowlishaw and Commissioner Gwen Cherne. - [Our response to the Veterans Legislation Reform](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/our-response-to-the-veterans-legislation-reform/) - Supporting war widows, veteran families, and defence families through pension entitlements under the Veterans’ Entitlements Act. - [Pictures of the 2024 ANZAC Field of Remembrance](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/anzac-for-2024-photo-gallery/) - The ANZAC Field of Remembrance honours and pays tribute to those who have served and gave their lives in service to our nation. It is a symbol of self-sacrifice. The ANZAC Field of Remembrance is the only commemoration where veterans’ families, in particular war widows, are at the centre of the service, laying their own - [Media Announcement](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/new-brand-name/) - AUSTRALIAN WAR WIDOWS NSW INTRODUCES NEW BRAND NAME SYDNEY, 23 April 2024 – Today marks the formal launch of the Families of Veterans Guild. A new brand name for what has been known as War Widows Guild of NSW. This new brand is the name our company, Australian War Widows NSW Ltd will operate - [Rebrand update – Why are we changing?](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/rebrand-update-why-are-we-changing/) - Australian War Widows NSW will soon become the Families of Veterans Guild In December 2023, the Board wrote to all members to let them know the results of the branding consultation work. We have since also written to all our major stakeholders to let them know about the changes that will be taking place to - [Our Space Guided Peer Support Event - ACT](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/our-space-act-event-1/) - Guided Peer Support Art TherapyAre you a defence or veteran spouse in Canberra? Navigating new postings, holding the fort while your partner is deployed or simply in need of some ‘me time’?We invite you to join Our Space for a guided peer support session and art therapy!The purpose of this event is to encourage spouses - [Writing cards to members for Christmas](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/christmas-card-writing/) - Celebrating the season with handwritten cards for our war widows The end of the year is a special time, but for many, especially within our community of war widows, it can also bring moments of reflection and heartache. That’s why our Christmas card writing sessions have become such an essential part of our annual calendar, - [A creative day of gratitude for defence families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/gratitude-defence-families/) - Explore how defence families connect and foster gratitude through creativity, building community, resilience, and wellbeing in a supportive environment. - [Aged Care Bill 2024 update](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/age-care-bill-2024/) - Discover key changes in the Aged Care Bill 2024, its impact on veterans, families, and aged care services. Learn how it ensures rights and service continuity. - [Castle Hill social club debut](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/castle-hill-social-club/) - Castle Hill War Widows Social Club held its first outing, fostering friendship and community with a special lunch at Lynwood Golf & Country Club. - [The legacy of the Anzac Memorial](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/anzac-memorial-legacy/) - The Anzac Memorial honour veterans and their families, celebrating the resilience, sacrifices, and silent strength of war widows, parents, and children. - [The power of social connection for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/social-connection-veteran-families/) - How Social connections empower Defence and Veteran families, offering support, resilience, and healing through shared experiences and strong communities. - [How the Social Work and Wellbeing Program can help veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/program-helps-veterans-families/) - Social Work & Wellbeing Program supports ADF families facing mental health, social isolation, & financial challenges through trauma-informed care and services. - [Exercise as self-care for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/exercise-veteran-families/) - Discover how family exercise benefits veteran families by improving physical and mental health, reducing stress, and fostering stronger bonds. - [Queenwood students learn the stories of veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/queenwood-stories-veteran-families/) - Queenwood students connect with member stories, learning resilience, sacrifice, and the legacy of ANZAC. A heartfelt lesson in history and remembrance. - [Words of wisdom from our war widows](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/word-wisdom-war-widows/) - War widow Lynne Sullivan shares her insights on the Families of Veterans Guild, honouring the legacy of veterans and supporting their families. - [Albury regional visit](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/albury-regional-visit/) - Regional visit from Families of Veterans Guild for Albury war widows at SS&A Club fosters connection, honours leaders, and shares updates on support programs. - [Remembrance Day 2024](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/remembrance-day-2024/) - Remembrance Day is a time to honour the courage and sacrifice of those who served to defend Australia's freedoms and values. More than just a historical commemoration, this day speaks to the personal legacies left behind, the families who carry the memories, the loved ones who still feel the loss. "It is on the back - [Macarthur War Widows Social Club](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/macarthur-social-club/) - Celebrating the launch of the Macarthur War Widows Social Club, a new space for connection, support, and community in Southwest Sydney for war widows. - [October Highlights From Our Wellbeing Program](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/highlights-wellbeing-program/) - See what happened this October in the wellbeing program with community events in Canberra and Sydney fostered connection and support for veteran families. - [Online art experience for defence families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/online-art-experience/) - Join us for a free online art session for veteran families on 22 November. Connect, create, and reflect through guided painting. Art kits provided! - [Canberra veteran families Wellness Walk](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellness-walk-veteran-families/) - Join our free Wellness Walk for veteran families in Canberra, December 6, 2024. Connect, relax, and enjoy a scenic 5km walk around Lake Burley Griffin. - [Royal Commission, what is next?](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/royal-commission-what-next/) - The Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide tables its final report: time to ask ourselves, what is next? The past few weeks have been significant for our community and for all Australians. With the Royal Commission’s report now public, we've reached the end of a major chapter, but our real work starts now. Following - [War Widows Day 2024](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-day-2024/) - Honouring the strength and sacrifice of war widows, War Widows Day 2024 remembers those who carry the weight of loss and pays tribute to their enduring legacy. - [Online macrame Christmas ornaments workshop](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/macrame-christmas-ornaments-workshop/) - Join us online for a macrame Christmas ornaments workshop on Thursday, 5 December. Connect with other veteran families in a fun, relaxing Christmas activity. - [Tribute to war widows that have passed](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tribute-to-war-widows/) - A heartfelt tribute on War Widows Day honours two former War Widows Guild presidents for their compassion and lasting legacy of support for war widows. - [Wearing our War Widows Day pin with pride](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wearing-our-wwd-pin/) - Show support for war widows this War Widows Day with our limited time wattle lapel pin. Honour their resilience, sacrifices, and legacy. - [Christmas family photoshoot for Canberra defence families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/christmas-photoshoot-defence-families/) - Join us for a free Christmas family photoshoot for Defence and veteran families in Canberra on 24 November. Enjoy 5 digital photos by Three and You Photography. - [Christmas family photoshoot for Sydney veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/christmas-photoshoot-veteran-families/) - Join us for a free Christmas family photoshoot for veteran families in Sydney on 23 November. Capture memories with 5 digital photos by Wonderlust Studios. - [A tribute to our founder](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tribute-to-our-founder/) - This War Widows Day, we honour Jessie Vasey CBE OBE, founder of the War Widows Guild, whose leadership and advocacy transformed the lives of war widows. - [Showing your support this War Widows Day](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/support-war-widows-day/) - Support war widows by honouring their sacrifice. Community, connection, and public involvement can make a meaningful difference. Buy a widow a coffee today. - [Mask making workshop for Sydney veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/mask-making-veteran-families/) - Join us for a free Creative Mask Making Art Experience for veteran families on Friday, 8 November, in Chatswood. Connect, reflect, and enjoy light refreshments. - [Collage workshop for Canberra Defence Families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/collage-workshop-defence-families/) - Join us for a free collage workshop in Canberra on 17 November for Defence families. Connect, create, and improve wellbeing through art and social connection. - [World Mental Health Day tips for veteran family](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/world-mental-health-day/) - World Mental Health Day highlights mental health awareness and support for veteran families, emphasizing connection, communication, and available resources. - [Yoga for Canberra ADF Families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/yoga-adf-families-canberra/) - Join us for a free yoga session in Canberra for veteran families. Connect, unwind, and recharge through gentle yoga and community on 8 November. Register now! - [The importance of War Widows Day](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-day-importance/) - War Widows Day honours the resilience and sacrifice of war widows, ensuring their stories are heard and their contributions to Australia’s peace are recognised. - [War Widows Day month is here!](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-day/) - Support war widows this War Widows Day by donating to "Buy a Widow a Coffee" or purchasing a 2024 wattle pin. Help ease isolation & honour their sacrifice. - [Growth after trauma](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/post-traumatic-growth-veterans-families/) - Post-Traumatic Growth and Veteran Families: A Journey of Hope and Healing For many veteran families, the challenges of military service don’t end when the uniform is folded away. The transition back to civilian life can be a challenging journey, particularly when a loved one has experienced trauma during their service. Yet, even amid these challenges, - [Walking to connect](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-events-defence-families/) - The success of our first Wellness Walk event in Canberra, where veteran families connected with nature & each other for a rejuvenating & relaxing experience! - [Sound healing Cronulla](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/veteran-families-wellbeing-event/) - Join us for Veterans’ Health Week in Sydney with a sound healing session and picnic lunch on October 12, 2024. Connect and relax with fellow veteran families. - [Wellness walk Canberra](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/defence-families-wellbeing-event-2/) - Join our Wellness Walk in Canberra! Connect with fellow defence and veteran families, enjoy a scenic walk, and relax with a complimentary coffee. Register now! - [Sound healing Chatswood](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/veteran-families-event-sydney/) - Join us for a free sound healing session during Veterans’ Health Week 2024. Promote social connection & wellbeing among veterans & their families. Register now. - [Harbour heritage EcoWalks Mosman](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/defence-families-register-now/) - Defence and veteran families of Sydney are invited to register to this free event. Enjoy an EcoWalk Tour and connect with defence spouses and families. - [Harbour heritage EcoWalks Mosman](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/sydney-veteran-families-event/) - Defence and veteran families of Sydney are invited to register to this free event. Enjoy an EcoWalk Tour and connect with other war widows and families. - [Macramé plant hanger workshop Canberra](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/canberra-veteran-families-event/) - Defence and veteran families of Canberra are invited to register to this free event. Create your own macramé and connect with other defence spouses and families - [Carer support group Canberra](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/carers-support-event-canberra/) - Join our Carers Support Group in Canberra on 13 Oct during National Carers Week. Connect with fellow carers, enjoy Devonshire Tea, and enhance your wellbeing. - [Kokodama workshop Canberra](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-workshop-defence-families/) - Join our free Kokodama Workshop in Canberra on 25 Oct 2024. Connect with veteran families, create unique crafts, and enjoy a relaxing morning tea. Register now! - [Submission to the Senate Inquiry into the Defence Honours and Awards System](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/submission-defence-honours-awards-system/) - Thank you to all of those who provided their views on the Defence Honours and Awards System. We have now prepared a submission to the Senate committee based on what you told us. In summary the consultation highlighted the following issues which feature in our submission: Issues with integrity - The Defence Honours and Awards - [Self-care and biophilia: embrace nature for wellbeing](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/biophilia-veteran-defence-families/) - Discover the benefits of biophilia for defence families. Learn how to integrate nature into your self-care routine & join a community of like-minded individuals. - [Raising awareness in our community on domestic, family and sexual violence](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/domestic-family-sexual-violence/) - It is often said that our Australian Defence Force (ADF) is a microcosm of the Australian population, reflecting the society that it serves though held to a higher standard. In 2023 a report into the prevalence of intimate partner violence within the defence and veteran community was published. That report was confronting reading. The report - [Wellness walk Canberra](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/canberra-defence-families-event/) - Join our Wellness Walk in Canberra on 13 September 2024! Connect with fellow Defence and veteran families, enjoy a scenic walk, and relax with a complimentary coffee. Register now! - [Connecting war widows](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/connecting-war-widows/) - Highlights from our recent outreach lunch in Coffs Harbour, part of our ongoing War Widows Program Regional Visits initiative. - [Connecting war widows: a gathering in Campbelltown](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/connecting-war-widows-campbelltown/) - Supporting Australian war widows through our War Widows Program with social clubs, outreach, and dedicated services. Join us today! - [Sydney defence & veterans families are invited to our next wellbeing event](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/defence-families-wellbeing-event/) - Defence and veteran families of Sydney are invited to register to this free event. Connect with other spouses, war widows and families through art. - [New Legislation to simplify and harmonise veteran compensation introduced today](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/new-legislation-to-simplify-and-harmonise-veteran-compensation-introduced-today/) - Veterans’ Entitlements Bill 2024 marks a crucial first step in long-awaited reforms, setting the stage for broader changes to support veterans & their families. - [Important announcements for veterans and their families from the NSW Government](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/announcements-nsw-government/) - NSW extends ANZAC Day trading restrictions and funds a $2M memorial for Afghanistan and Iraq veterans, reflecting strong community input and gratitude. - [Watch our Webinar on understanding intimate partner & family domestic violence: context & action​](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/ipv-webinar/) - Watch our webinar with Dr. Sean Cowlishaw and Commissioner Gwen Cherne on intimate partner violence in Defence and Veterans’ communities. - [Our CEO’s reflection on the Royal Commission Closing ceremony](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/royal-commission-closing-ceremony/) - 'It's now time to fight for our veterans'. That's the message to all Australians from the three Royal Commissioners who've spearheaded a three-year inquiry into the suicide crisis within the nation's Defence and veteran population. As the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide held its closing ceremony on 28 August, our CEO, Renee Wilson, - [Connecting War Widows: Expanding Peer Support Networks](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/reaching-war-widows-need-support/) - Our Castle Hill visit was a success with local war widows, MPs, and RSL reps connecting and sharing. Exciting plans to start a new social club soon! - [Defence Families Wellbeing Event - July](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/defence-families-sound-healing-july/) - Join us for a free sound healing session on July 13 at Chatswood, supporting veteran families with relaxation and wellness. All are welcome! - [Update on the Veterans' Legislation](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/veterans-legislation-update-2/) - We are continuing to talk to Government about how the pathway to greater support for the families of veterans and widows can be paved in the new veteran’s legislation which is currently being reviewed by Senate Committee. We have been attending consultations run by the Minister for Veterans Affairs and are talking to MPs and Senators - [Supporting war widows and their families: 25th AGM summary](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/25th-annual-general-meeting/) - Highlights from the annual meeting of the Australian War Widows NSW Ltd trading as Families of Veterans Guild. A successful year for the organisation The 25th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Australian War Widows NSW Ltd, trading as Families of Veterans Guild, was held on 15 August 2024 at the Rydges Sydney Central. The - [Calling all carers of veterans](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/veterans-carers/) - To all of those who are currently caring for or have cared for a veteran, we need you hear from you. The Australian Government is currently seeking the views of carers on the development of a new National Carer Strategy. It is important that as many experiences of veteran families are included as part of - [A Mindful Moment: Transform Your Art into a Mindful Practice for Defence Families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/art-mindful-practice/) - Discover how mindful art creation can enhance presence and creativity for defence families. Learn practical tips to integrate mindfulness into your artistic process. - [Making Time for Self-Care: Join a Community of Peers](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/self-care-peer-support/) - Discover the importance of self-care and how joining a community of peers can enhance your wellbeing. Learn practical self-care tips and connect with others for a healthier, happier life. - [Defence & veterans families are invited to our next wellbeing event](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/defence-families-art-therapy/) - Join our Grounding through Change with Clay workshop on 25 August 2024. Connect with the Defence community, foster social connections, and support self-care. - [Watch the 2024 International Women’s Day Webinar](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/watch-the-2024-international-womens-day-webinar/) - In celebration of the women in our community, AWWNSW delivered an exclusive Webinar this International Women’s Day. ‘How can we inspire inclusion’ covers the subject of inclusion for women, noting issues we often hear about women becoming more invisible as they age, especially in sectors that are traditionally male dominated – sectors that also benefit of - [Our Space Webinar with Special Guest](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/our-space-webinar-with-special-guest/) - We are proud to be hosting an Our Space online webinar with special guest and host Dr Stephanie Hodson from Relationships Australia in December. Dr Stephanie Hodson has worked in psychology, mental health and community support for 30 years, first in the Army, then as a public servant, and now in the not-for-profit sector. A - [Vietnam Veterans Day - Standing Together](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/vietnam-veterans-day-standing-together/) - Earlier this year, Social Club Coordinator, Di Vogt asked the members of her social club if they would like to join her at the Vietnam Veterans\' Day service on 18 August 2023. Di spoke of the importance of the service to her and her late husband and wanted to honour him and those he served with. - [Her Majesty Monarch and Veteran](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/her-majesty-monarch-and-veteran/) - On 9 September 2022 we joined the world in mourning the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Though we knew she wasn’t well, it was still a shock to hear of her passing. Her Majesty was of course more than our Monarch – she was veteran of the Second World War, the spouse of - [Merry Christmas and Happy New Year](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/merry-christmas-and-happy-new-year/) - From the AWWNSW team and family to yours, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a New Year of good health and happiness. Our new team have come to know many of you throughout this challenging year and hope we meet many more in 2022. We look forward to taking AWWNSW through the next - [The Illustrator Behind The Wattle](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/the-illustrator-behind-the-wattle/) - Introducing Nidhi Bolar, illustrator of the wattle on the back cover of our latest edition of The Digest. We know you are over in India currently, what are you missing the most about Australia? It\'s been more than a year since I\'ve been away from Sydney so naturally there are countless things I miss about - [NSW Office to remain closed](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/nsw-office-to-remain-closed/) - The health and wellbeing of our members and staff remains the upmost importance to AWW NSW. As per the latest advice and restrictions from the NSW Government regarding COVID-19, we have decided to close the Chatswood office until further notice. Staff will be working from home and the office phone lines will be diverted to a team member, - [War Widows NSW eNewsletter Update](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-nsw-enewsletter-update-10/) - Dear Members, Daylight savings has finally arrived! Take advantage of the extra daylight hours by getting active in your garden or enjoying a walk. This edition of the newsletter features some wonderful spring gardening ideas, as well as some fantastic stories from our members about the various ways they are keeping in touch and staying ## Pages - [Home](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/) - Families of Veterans Guild provides connection, support and resources for veteran and defence families, honouring their service and sacrifice. Join our community and get involved in initiatives dedicated to supporting those who support our defence personnel. - [Wellbeing activities for Defence & Veterans Families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/defence-families-wellbeing-events/) - Wellbeing Activities for Defence & Veteran Families Find activities near you 💻ONLINEVIEW ACTIVITIES → 🗺️NSWVIEW ACTIVITIES → 🗺️ACTVIEW ACTIVITIES → 🗺️SAVIEW ACTIVITIES → 🗺️QLDVIEW ACTIVITIES → War widows, defence and veteran families can sometimes experience overwhelm when balancing the demands of supporting family, the impact of ADF service and/or in caring roles due to illness, - [Wellbeing support for defence and veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/wellbeing-support-defence-veteran-families/) - Wellbeing support for veteran and defence families Wellbeing services for veteran families and war widows Veteran and defence family life can bring unique pressures, particularly during times of transition, illness, injury or loss. Families of Veterans Guild provides wellbeing services that support war widows, defence and veteran families to navigate these challenges, strengthen emotional wellbeing, - [Membership](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/membership/) - Learn about the benefits of becoming a member of Families of Veterans Guild. Join our supportive community and access resources tailored to veterans and their families. - [Membership submission](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/membership-submission/) - Thank you for your membership submission.If you have any questions about your membership, please contact as at membership@fov.org.au or (02) 9267 6577. - [Advocacy](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/advocacy/) - Families of Veterans advocates for the needs of Australian veterans' families. Explore our advocacy efforts and how we work to ensure their voices are heard and needs are met. - [80 Years Supporting War Widows & Veteran Families | Families of Veterans Guild](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/the-guild-80th-anniversary/) - 80 years supporting war widows and veteran families across Australia. Explore the Guild’s history, stories and anniversary events, and find ways to connect. - [Australian War Widows Honour Roll](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-honour-roll/) - War Widows Honour Roll A collective tribute of the stories of love, courage, and resilience This War Widows Honour Roll is a living tribute to the women who have carried the legacy of service with courage and strength.Each story honours a life shaped by service and sacrifice, told through the words of family, friends, and - [Contact](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/contact/) - Contact Families of Veterans to learn more about our services, volunteer opportunities, or to inquire about support for veterans, war widows, and their families. Reach out to us via phone, email, or through our online contact form. We're here to assist you. - [Our Governance](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/our-governance/) - Our people / governance Who runs Families of Veterans Guild? The Families of Veterans Guild is run by the board of directors of Australian War Widows NSW Ltd.Our board is comprised of 6 elect directors and 3 appointed directors. The board focuses on the effective governance of the company, including strategic direction, reputation, finance, compliance and - [Wellbeing activities for Defence & Veterans Families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/project/defence-families-wellbeing-events-old/) - The purpose of these activities is to encourage the defence families and families of veterans to engage in self-care activities and expand their social network by connecting with like-minded peers. - [Stuart Clark AM FACID](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/stuart-clarke-am-facid/) - Stuart Clark, Deputy Chair of AWWNSW, brings legal expertise and community leadership. Son of a War Widow's Guild member. - [Lieutenant General Susan Coyle AM CSC DSM](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/majgen-susan-coyle/) - Discover the remarkable journey of MAJGEN Susan Coyle AM CSC DSM, a distinguished board member of Families of Veterans Guild. With extensive military experience - [ANZAC Field Of Remembrance](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/anzac-field-of-remembrance/) - Honor those who served at the ANZAC Field of Remembrance. War widows, families plant crosses to remember veterans' sacrifice. Livestream available for regional. - [ANZAC Field of Remembrance Gallery 2026](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/anzac-field-of-remembrance-gallery-2026/) - [ANZAC Field of Remembrance 2026 | Who will you remember?](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/remember-anzac-field-of-remembrance/) - Who will you remember? ANZAC Field of Remembrance 2026 In the days leading into ANZAC Day, families need a place to remember in their own way, before the national focus shifts to the day itself. The ANZAC Field of Remembrance exists for that reason. It began in 1952, created by war widows so they could - [War Widows Day](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/project/war-widows-day/) - Learn about our War Widows Day project and how we honor the sacrifices of war widows. Get involved and support our initiatives. - [AGM](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/agm/) - Learn about Families of Veterans' Annual General Meeting, where we gather to discuss important matters, share updates, and make decisions to better serve our veteran families. - [Careers](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/careers/) - Discover career opportunities at Families of Veterans. Join our team dedicated to supporting veterans, war widows, and their families. Explore available positions and start making a difference today. - [Volunteer](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/volunteer/) - Join our Families of Veterans Guild team as a volunteer and help make a positive impact in the lives of veterans and their families. Find rewarding volunteer opportunities and contribute to our cause. - [Support Us (Support Families of Veterans Guild)](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/support-us/) - Support Families of Veterans Guild and defense and veteran families. Your donations and volunteer efforts make a meaningful difference in the lives of those.... - [Get Involved](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/get-involved/) - Discover meaningful ways to get involved and support veterans and their families through our community initiatives and events. Join us in honoring their service and sacrifice by becoming a part of our dedicated network. - [Our Webinars](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/project/defence-families-webinars/) - Join our free Space webinars aimed at empowering defence and veterans families. Break down barriers and join essential discussions to live your best life. - [War Widows Programs](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-programs/) - Discover our specialised programs at Families of Veterans Guild tailored to support and empower war widows. Learn about the services and resources available to assist war widows in their journey. - [What's on](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/whats-on/) - What's on What's on for war widows, defence & veteran families There’s always something happening in our community – because staying connected, supported and informed matters. Our What’s On page brings together information on gatherings, wellbeing activities, annual events and online webinars designed especially for war widows and the families of veterans.Whether you’re looking to - [Our History](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/history/) - Delve into the rich history of the Families of Veterans Guild, tracing our roots and evolution in supporting veterans and their families throughout Australia's military history. - [Annual Events](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/annual-events/) - Discover our annual events aimed at supporting and honouring veterans' families. From ANZAC Day commemorations to the Field of Remembrance, explore how we recognise the sacrifices and contributions of our servicemen and women. Learn more. - [Social work support for defence and veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/social-work-support/) - Social work support for defence & veteran families Accessing trauma-informed social work support Life during and after military service can be complex. Families of Veterans Guild provides professional, trauma-informed social work support to assist defence and veteran families and war widows across Australia. Our qualified social workers offer practical guidance to help individuals and families - [Publications & Resources](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/publications-resources/) - Explore our comprehensive collection of publications and resources dedicated to supporting veterans and their families. Access valuable information and educational materials here. - [Welcome South Australian War Widows & Veteran Families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/south-australian-war-widows-veteran-families/) - South Australian war widows & veteran families Welcome to the Families of Veterans Guild: supporting South Australian war widows & veteran families A new chapter for war widows and veteran families in South Australia In December 2025 Australian War Widows (SA) Inc. has voluntarily wound up its operation and entrusted its legacy and members to - [Restore concession equality for NSW war widows](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/advocacy/concession-equality-nsw-war-widows/) - Help us restoring equality by fixing Section 134 so war widows keep council rate concessions after bereavement. Email your NSW MP today. - [Digital literacy for war widows](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/digital-literacy-war-widows/) - Digital Literacy for war widows To ensure war widows remain connected in the digital world, we have created a Digital Literacy series, featuring episodes that will go step by step to grow your confidence with technology and stay safe online. Episode 1 - How to use Facebook This episode is on how to use Facebook. - [Field of Remembrance History](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/field-of-remembrance-history/) - Explore the rich history of the Field of Remembrance, a poignant tribute to the sacrifices of veterans and their families. Learn about the origins of this solemn ceremony and its significance in commemorating the service and sacrifice of our nation's heroes. Delve into the legacy of remembrance and honor that continues to endure through this timeless tradition. - [Rise Together Initiative - Building Building career confidence for defence and veteran partners](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/project/rise-together-initiative/) - In 2025 the Rise Together Initiative will provide 12 defence and veteran spouses with the ability to undertake the Women in Leadership Development Program. - [Resource Hub](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/resource-hub/) - Discover our resource hub for defence families, veteran families and war widows. Packed with information on entitlements, wellbeing and more. - [FAQ's for war widows, defence & veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/faqs/) - Read our FAQs about programs, membership, events, webinars, volunteering and donations at Families of Veterans Guild. Support and advocacy for war widows and defence and veteran families in Australia. - [Social Work and Wellbeing Program](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/social-work-wellbeing-programs/) - Discover our social work and wellbeing programs designed to provide support and assistance to veterans and their families. Learn how we promote mental health and overall wellbeing. - [War Widows Day](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/war-widows-day/) - War Widows Day 2025 Honour their sacrifice. Share their story War Widows Day is a day of recognition for those who have carried the lifelong impact of losing a partner through defence service. It is a time to honour their resilience, acknowledge their sacrifices, and ensure their stories are never forgotten.This year, we invite families, - [Awareness & Advocacy - Veteran support system](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/awareness-advocacy/) - Our Awareness and Advocacy initiative focuses on bridging gaps in the veteran support system advocating for the needs of veteran families and war widows. JoinUs - [Home War Widows Day](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/home-war-widows-day/) - War Widows Day 2024 War Widows Day is a significant occasion dedicated to recognising and connecting war widows, ensuring they feel honoured and acknowledged.This day allows us to appreciate their bravery, resilience, and sacrifice.Across New South Wales alone, more than 15,000 war widows and widowers face the challenges of grief and isolation.These resilient individuals, the - [Michelle Carr](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/michelle-carr/) - Meet Michelle Carr, a dedicated board member and advocate for veterans' families. Learn about her commitment to serving her community and championing better outcome. - [News](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/blog/) - Stay informed and inspired with insightful articles and updates on veterans' issues, family support, and community events. Explore our blog for valuable resources and stories from the Families of Veterans Guild. - [Yvonne Stapleton](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/yvonne-stapleton/) - Yvonne Stapleton Yvonne Stapleton Board member Yvonne Stapleton is a dedicated and experienced leader with a commitment to supporting war widows and veterans’ families that is deep. As a war widow herself, she understands the unique challenges they face.Yvonne’s husband was a Vietnam veteran serving in the Australian Army for 30 years and was also - [Field of Remembrance Gallery (Families of Veterans Gallery)](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/for-gallery/) - Discover heartfelt tributes and expressions of gratitude at Families of Veterans Gallery. Experience the power of art in honoring our veterans & families. - [Tricia Hobson](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tricia-hobson/) - Meet Tricia Hobson, the esteemed Chair of Families of Veterans Guild. Over 25 years of experience in the insurance sector and a commitment to community service. - [Renee Wilson](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/renee-wilson/) - Meet Renee, leading AWWNSW's transformation to support women and veteran families. Passionate advocate for positive change. - [Queen Dunbar](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/queen-dunbar/) - Queen Dunbar, a war widow, commences her role in 2022 after her husband's service in Iraq, Afghanistan, and more. Inspiring women to live their best lives. - [Privacy Statement](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/privacy-statement/) - Our privacy policy ensures your data is secure. We only use it to fulfill your requests. Stay informed about specials and updates. - [Margaret Beazley](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/margaret-beazley/) - Margaret Beazley Margaret Beazley AC KC Governor of NSW Families of Veterans Guild Patron The Families of Veterans Guild Patron is currently Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC, Governor of New South Wales. - [Lynne Sullivan](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/lynne-sullivan/) - Meet Lynne Sullivan, a dedicated board member of Families of Veterans Guild. With expertise in pathology and a deep understanding of military family experiences - [Jennifer Collins AM](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/jennifer-collins-am/) - Meet Jennifer Collins AM, board member of Families of Veterans Guild. Over 40 years of experience in executive leadership roles at State & Federal Governments.. - [Gallery](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/gallery/) - Browse through our gallery to witness moments of remembrance, resilience, and camaraderie captured during our events and initiatives. From solemn commemorations to heartwarming gatherings, these images encapsulate the spirit of our community and the enduring bond shared by veterans and their families. Explore the gallery to be inspired and moved by the stories behind each photograph. - [ANZAC Field of Remembrance Gallery 2025](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/field-of-remembrance-gallery-2025/) - Explore the moving moments captured during the 2025 Field of Remembrance ceremony. Witness the heartfelt tributes laid by veterans' families as they honour their loved ones' service and sacrifice. - [ANZAC Field of Remembrance Gallery 2024](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/field-of-remembrance-gallery-2024/) - Explore the moving moments captured during the 2024 Field of Remembrance ceremony. Witness the heartfelt tributes laid by veterans' families as they honour their loved ones' service and sacrifice. Click here to view the gallery. - [ANZAC Field of Remembrance 2025](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/anzac-field-of-remembrance-2025/) - [About](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/about/) - Families of Veterans is dedicated to supporting the families of Australia's veterans. Discover our mission, services, and how we honour the sacrifices of those who served. - [BRIG Jocelyn King CSC](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/jocelyn-king/) - BRIG Jocelyn King CSC BRIG Jocelyn King CSC Board member BRIG Jocelyn King CSC, a distinguished career Army officer, brings extensive leadership and strategic expertise to the Board. With service beginning in 1990, she has held key roles, including commanding the Army School of Health and leading the 2nd Health Brigade. Jocelyn’s deep understanding of - [Lyn Bye](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/lyn-bye/) - Lyn Bye Lyn Bye Board member Lyn Bye is a dedicated leader who truly understands the needs of war widows and veterans’ families. As the Coordinator for the Laurieton War Widows Social Club, she handles everything from secretarial duties to organising social outings. Lyn’s husband of 35 years was a Vietnam veteran and served the Australian - [Project](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/project/) - [Bio](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/bio/) ## My Templates - [Default Kit](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/?elementor_library=default-kit-2) - [Takeover - Rise Together 2025](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/?elementor_library=takeover-rise-together-2025) - Empowering war widows and veteran families, building resilience and hope We are a community of war widows and families of veterans connected to defence service. At Families of Veterans Guild, you can build a network based on friendship, understanding, strength and support. We’re a safe space – made up of people just like you. JOIN - [Families of Veterans Home Page](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/?elementor_library=families-of-veterans-home-page) - Empowering war widows and veteran families, building resilience and hope We are a community of war widows and families of veterans connected to defence service. At Families of Veterans Guild, you can build a network based on friendship, understanding, strength and support. We’re a safe space – made up of people just like you. JOIN - [War Widows Day 2024](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/?elementor_library=war-widows-day-2024) - War Widows Day 2024 War Widows Day is a significant occasion dedicated to recognising and connecting war widows, ensuring they feel honoured and acknowledged.This day allows us to appreciate their bravery, resilience, and sacrifice.Across New South Wales alone, more than 15,000 war widows and widowers face the challenges of grief and isolation.These resilient individuals, the - [familiesofveterans-home](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/?elementor_library=familiesofveterans-home) - We are a community of war widows and families of veterans connected to defence service. At Families of Veterans Guild, you can build a network based on friendship, understanding, strength and support. We’re a safe space – made up of people just like you. JOIN OUR COMMUNITY War Widows Program​ To support the needs of - [War Widows Day-02-02-5-2024](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/?elementor_library=war-widows-day-02-02-5-2024) - War Widows Day Defence and Veteran families are part of the fabric of Australia – making valuable contributions to our community and advancing social justice issues for over 100 years. Standing behind and beside our nation’s veterans throughout their service and beyond, war widows and veteran families provide the unwavering support during the ups and - [Homepage-01-04-2024-MA](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/?elementor_library=homepage-01-04-2024-ma) - We are a community of war widows and families of veteran connected defence service. At Families of Veterans Guild, you can build a network based on friendship, understanding, strength and support. We’re a safe space – made up of people just like you. JOIN OUR COMMUNITY Advocacy Our relentless advocacy provides a voice for war - [Banner-section-without-slider](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/?elementor_library=banner-section-without-slider) - Join Our Community where Friendship, Understanding, and Support Flourish LEARN MORE - [Default Kit](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/?elementor_library=default-kit) ## Downloads - [Liar Of Dreams](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/downloads/liar-of-dreams-2/) - Nemo enim ipsam voluptatem quia voluptas sit aspernatur aut odit aut fugit. - [This Dark Road to Mercy](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/downloads/this-dark-road-to-mercy-2/) - Nemo enim ipsam voluptatem quia voluptas sit aspernatur aut odit aut fugit. - [Buy a Complete Series](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/downloads/buy-a-complete-series/) - Nemo enim ipsam voluptatem quia voluptas sit aspernatur aut odit aut fugit, sed quia consequuntur magn. - [Now You See Me](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/downloads/now-you-see-me/) - Nemo enim ipsam voluptatem quia voluptas sit aspernatur aut odit aut fugit. - [Before The Devil Breaks You](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/downloads/before-the-devil-breaksyou/) - Nemo enim ipsam voluptatem quia voluptas sit aspernatur aut odit aut fugit. ## Honour Roll Stories - [Ruby Emily Terry](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/honour_story/ruby-emily-terry/) - Ruby Emily Terry devoted her life to supporting her WWI veteran husband, Rupert James Terry of the Fifth Battalion, Second Division AIF. She stood by him through the lasting effects of shell shock from 1917, offering unwavering love and emotional strength. Ruby’s dedication extended beyond her husband to his mates, showing deep respect for all veterans. Her devotion gave Rupert comfort and longevity, making Ruby a true hero in her own right. - [Mary Isabel Edgley](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/honour_story/mary-isabel-edgley/) - Mary Edgley was an original member of the Guild and served on the Executive Committee and later as Honorary Secretary and Treasurer of the Federal Guild, helping to establish branches across Victoria and New South Wales. Mary represented the Guild on the Canteens Trust Fund, working alongside Defence and Legacy representatives to support veterans and their families. In 1950, she travelled to Europe, meeting the Duchess of Kent, a fellow war widow and Guild Patron. Mary’s leadership and commitment helped build the Guild and improve conditions for widows living in hardship. - [Gwen Gardiner](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/honour_story/gwen-gardiner/) - Gwen married a Royal Australian Air Force veteran in 1946 after meeting during his leave in Melbourne. He returned from New Guinea with malaria and psychological trauma and later struggled with alcoholism. Gwen supported him through his law studies and raised four children while working various jobs as his career faltered. They divorced in 1968 after many separations, meaning she was not eligible for war widow benefits. Her husband died in 1975 aged 54. Gwen continued to be a hard working, resilient woman for both herself and her children, living independently until her death at 83. - [Jo Burgess](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/honour_story/jo-burgess/) - Jo became a war widow on 11 March 2024 after the passing of her husband, Noel. Noel served 44 years in the Royal Australian Navy, beginning as an apprentice carpenter at 15 and rising to Lieutenant Commander. They met in Sydney and married a year later in Brisbane with a traditional naval wedding. Through long deployments and family life with 4 children, Jo was able to stay strong and care for their children alone for long periods. Jo values the war widows in her community that showed their support. She helps them as they help her, through the shared understanding and common grief of defence life. - [Joan Lois Adams nee Callcott](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/honour_story/joan-lois-adams-nee-callcott/) - Joan was only beginning school as the Second World War broke out. She married Ross Adams, a veteran of the 2/16th Battalion who served in Papua New Guinea and Balikpapan and lived with the lasting effects of war. Joan held her family together, raising three children through hardship and violence. After caring for Ross for 14 years until his death, she was recruited into the War Widows Guild of the City of Wollongong supporting stroke survivors. Joan did her best for her kids, and was loving Nan to her grandchildren, refusing to let the burden of service affect her relationship with her family. - [Lorna Callaway](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/honour_story/lorna-callaway/) - Lorna Callaway was not a woman of many words, but her actions spoke volumes. She became a war widow after the death of her husband Shannon in 1980. Shannon returned from service carrying the unseen wounds of war, which left him unable to work. To provide for their seven sons, Lorna took a job at the local hospital as a laundry maid, where she worked for more than fifty years. She raised her children with love, discipline, and resilience, instilling values that shaped their lives. Lorna’s story reflects the lasting impact of war on families, showing how widows bore heavy burdens with strength and ensured their families endured despite hardship. - [Lillian Freeman](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/honour_story/lillian-freeman/) - I would like to share the story of my grandmother Lillian, a war widow. She would be 110 if she were still alive today. She was the wife of World War II veteran Lionel Freeman and joined the Guild after his death in 1969. Lionel served in Timor and later fought with the 2/2 Independent Company. His experiences left scars that affected the family, but Lillian held everyone together with strength and calm. She raised four children and carried on without complaint. Working with the Guild now, I see her in the women we support and understand the importance of what she helped build. - [Shirley Batty](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/honour_story/shirley-batty/) - Shirley became a war widow in 2024 after the death of her husband, Peter. Peter served 21 years in the Australian Regular Army as an Infantry Soldier, reaching the rank of Warrant Officer Class Two. He served in Malaya, Borneo and South Vietnam, and was awarded campaign and service medals along with the Infantry Combat Badge. Shirley and Peter met in 1977 when he locked himself out of his car, and Shirley, who lived nearby, lent him a coat hanger. It was love at first sight from that moment and from that day they built a life together. After 45 years engaged, they married on Peter’s 80th birthday, a lasting testament to their enduring love. - [Elizabeth Wright](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/honour_story/elizabeth-wright/) - Elizabeth joined the Guild after her husband Reg, a WWII Spitfire pilot, passed in 2005. She cared for him throughout their marriage and later supported other war widows, becoming coordinator of the Chatswood social club for over ten years. Elizabeth helped organise meetings and fostered connection among members. She spoke openly about the impacts of war on veterans and their families and reflected on the challenges faced by younger service members and their families. She believed more support was needed for those affected by modern conflicts, recognising the ongoing consequences of service on both veterans and their loved ones. - [Margaret Tanner](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/honour_story/margaret-tanner/) - Margaret Tanner became a war widow at 29 after her husband Noel, a WWII serviceman passed from illness related to his service. She raised their son alone and, in 1951, joined Australian War Widows NSW, where she built lifelong friendships and found strength through the support of other widows. Margaret remained active in her community well into her 100s, building friendships, attending events, and supporting other war widows. She reflected on the challenges younger widows face, from grief to family responsibilities, and valued the connections and support provided by the Guild, recognising how vital these networks are for families affected by service. - [Diana Bland](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/honour_story/diana-bland/) - Diana Bland joined the Guild in 1993 after her husband passed, and dedicated her life to supporting other war widows. She served the Guild at both State and National levels, demonstrating leadership, compassion, and commitment. Diana established and expanded regional clubs, connecting widows across New South Wales and ensuring they felt supported and understood. Even after her official roles ended, she continued to reach out personally, making thousands of calls and sending handwritten cards. Diana believed in the power of connection, mentoring younger widows, and helping them find purpose and companionship. Her work strengthened the Guild and left a lasting legacy of care and community. - [Audrey Blood OAM](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/honour_story/audrey-blood-oam/) - Audrey Blood OAM joined the Guild in 1986 and began volunteering in 1989, dedicating 30 years to supporting war widows, bereaved parents, and families affected by illness. She served as State and National President, demonstrating leadership, compassion, and care. Audrey was known for making every widow feel welcome and encouraging the best in them, setting the tone for the Guild through her presence and commitment. Even after her official roles ended, she continued her service, remaining active and visible in the community. Audrey’s work strengthened the organisation and its members, leaving a lasting legacy recognised by her OAM and the gratitude of countless widows. ## Elementor Header & Footer Builder - [Header](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/elementor-hf/header/) - Menu Our story Our People / Governance Our History Gallery How we support Wellbeing Social work Resource Hub Advocacy Recognition What’s on War Widows Social Clubs Wellbeing activities Annual Events Webinars Get Involved Support Us Memberships Volunteering Careers Contact us News Donate Now Menu Our story Our People / Governance Our History Gallery How we - [Footer](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/elementor-hf/footer/) - Spread the Word Useful Links Membership Advocacy Social Work & Wellbeing Events The Digest Privacy Statement Contact Us PHONE: 0292676577 TOLL FREE: 1800451615 OFFICE HOURS: Monday-Friday: 9am-5pm ADDRESS: Suite 1.01, Level 1 9 Help Street Chatswood, NSW, 2067 POSTAL ADDRESS: PO Box 146 Chatswood NSW 2057 © Copyright 2024 Australian War Widows NSW Ltd trading - 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[AWW NSW e-newsletter](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/aww-nsw-e-newsletter/) - [war widows e-newsletter](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-e-newsletter/) - [AWW NSW advocacy](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/aww-nsw-advocacy/) - [Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide Terms of Reference.](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/royal-commission-into-defence-and-veteran-suicide-terms-of-reference/) - [Australian Army Veteran](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/australian-army-veteran/) - [Afghanistan war](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/afghanistan-war/) - [Australian veterans of Afghanistan](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/australian-veterans-of-afghanistan/) - [veteran support](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/veteran-support/) - [Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC QC](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/her-excellency-the-honourable-margaret-beazley-ac-qc/) - [Patron](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/patron/) - 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[#RememberToRemember](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/remembertoremember/) - [Remembrance Day](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/remembrance-day/) - [Remembrance Day 2021](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/remembrance-day-2021/) - [AWWNSW](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/awwnsw/) - [connecting war widows](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/connecting-war-widows/) - [Pen pal](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/pen-pal/) - [pen pal program](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/pen-pal-program/) - [reflection](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/reflection/) - [veteran community](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/veteran-community/) - [casual work](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/casual-work/) - [talent](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/talent/) - [Volunteer](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/volunteer/) - [Australian defence force](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/australian-defence-force/) - [Chair yoga](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/chair-yoga/) - [digital wellbeing classes](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/digital-wellbeing-classes/) - [modified dance](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/modified-dance/) - [online health and wellbeing classes](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/online-health-and-wellbeing-classes/) - [online singing classes](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/online-singing-classes/) - [seated dance classes](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/seated-dance-classes/) - [zoom classes](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/zoom-classes/) - [Australia Day 2022 Honours List](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/australia-day-2022-honours-list/) - [Board Director](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/board-director/) - [Governor-General](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/governor-general/) - [Member of the Order of Australia](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/member-of-the-order-of-australia/) - [Susan Coyle](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/susan-coyle/) - [veteran](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/veteran/) - [ADF](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/adf/) - [Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/defence-honours-and-awards-appeals-tribunal/) - [Defence spouse](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/defence-spouse/) - [veteran family support](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/veteran-family-support/) - [veteranshelpingveterans](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/veteranshelpingveterans/) - [Department of Social Services](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/department-of-social-services/) - [End Violence against women and families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/end-violence-against-women-and-families/) - [Gener-based violence](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/gener-based-violence/) - [National plan](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/national-plan/) - [enews](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/enews/) - [member news](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/member-news/) - [widows women and families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/widows-women-and-families/) - [AIFS](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/aifs/) - [Australian Institute of Family Studies](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/australian-institute-of-family-studies/) - [elder abuse](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/elder-abuse/) - [elder abuse study](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/elder-abuse-study/) - [emergency and disaster contact numbers](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/emergency-and-disaster-contact-numbers/) - [emergency contacts](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/emergency-contacts/) - [Stay safe](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/stay-safe/) - [#breakthebias](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/breakthebias/) - [#IWD2022](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/iwd2022/) - [International Women's Day 2022](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/international-womens-day-2022/) - [NSW Women's Week](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/nsw-womens-week/) - [Anzacbiscuits](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/anzacbiscuits/) - [AnzacDay](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/anzacday/) - [AnzacDay2022](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/anzacday2022/) - [freeschoolholidayonlineactivites](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/freeschoolholidayonlineactivites/) - [onlineactivities](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/onlineactivities/) - [PoppyArt](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/poppyart/) - [schoolholidays](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/schoolholidays/) - [Zoomsessions](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/zoomsessions/) - [Anzac 2022](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/anzac-2022/) - [AGM 2022](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/agm-2022/) - [War Widows NSW AGM](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-nsw-agm/) - [Job](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/job/) - [Anzac Service](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/anzac-service/) - [Live stream](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/live-stream/) - [Live streaming](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/live-streaming/) - [St Andrew's Cathedral](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/st-andrews-cathedral/) - [2022 Annual General Meeting](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/2022-annual-general-meeting/) - [Chatswood Office](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/chatswood-office/) - [Townhall schedule](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/townhall-schedule/) - [immune system](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/immune-system/) - [stay healthy](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/stay-healthy/) - [tips](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/tips/) - [Australian War Widows NSW Annual General Meeting 2022](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/australian-war-widows-nsw-annual-general-meeting-2022/) - [AWWNSW AGM 2022](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/awwnsw-agm-2022/) - [connection](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/connection/) - [townhalls](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/townhalls/) - [virtual community](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/virtual-community/) - [office](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/office/) - [survey results](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/survey-results/) - [Royal Commission interim report](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/royal-commission-interim-report/) - [cost of living](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/cost-of-living/) - [War Widows Day NSW](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-day-nsw/) - [War Widows Day](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-day/) - [Board of Directors](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/board-of-directors/) - [War Widows NSW](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-nsw/) - [Chatswood social club](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/chatswood-social-club/) - [Guild social clubs](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/guild-social-clubs/) - [War Widows NSW social club](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-nsw-social-club/) - [AWW NSW town hall](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/aww-nsw-town-hall/) - [virtual community town hall](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/virtual-community-town-hall/) - [War Widows NSW town hall](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-nsw-town-hall/) - [Inaugural War Widows Day NSW](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/inaugural-war-widows-day-nsw/) - [veterans families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/veterans-families/) - [War Widows Day 2022](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-day-2022/) - [AWWNSW collaboration](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/awwnsw-collaboration/) - [collaboration](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/collaboration/) - [Renee Wilson CEO AWWNSW](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/renee-wilson-ceo-awwnsw/) - [Solider On](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/solider-on/) - [veteran community collaboration](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/veteran-community-collaboration/) - [ADF families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/adf-families/) - [networks](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/networks/) - [Our Space ACT](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/our-space-act/) - [peer support](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/peer-support/) - [social connection](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/social-connection/) - [ADF family](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/adf-family/) - [Veteran Family Town Hall](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/veteran-family-town-hall/) - [Australia Day 2023 Honours List](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/australia-day-2023-honours-list/) - [Jennifer Collins](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/jennifer-collins/) - [Order of Australia](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/order-of-australia/) - [Australian War Widows NSW eNewsletter](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/australian-war-widows-nsw-enewsletter/) - [Vietnam War](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/vietnam-war/) - [Vietnam War 50th anniversary](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/vietnam-war-50th-anniversary/) - [ANZAC Commemoration](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/anzac-commemoration/) - [RSL and Schools Remember ANZAC Commemoration](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/rsl-and-schools-remember-anzac-commemoration/) - [commemoration](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/commemoration/) - [veteran family advocacy](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/veteran-family-advocacy/) - [AVCAT Scholarship](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/avcat-scholarship/) - [AWWNSW AVCAT Sponsorship](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/awwnsw-avcat-sponsorship/) - [children and grandchildren of Australian ex-serving men and women](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/children-and-grandchildren-of-australian-ex-serving-men-and-women/) - [International Nurses Day](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/international-nurses-day/) - [Harvard Club of Australia](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/harvard-club-of-australia/) - [Scholarship recipient announcement](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/scholarship-recipient-announcement/) - [change makers](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/change-makers/) - [City2surf](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/city2surf/) - [donate](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/donate/) - [donate today](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/donate-today/) - [fundraise](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/fundraise/) - [news](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/news/) - [donate now](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/donate-now/) - [AGM 2023](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/agm-2023/) - [War Widows NSW advocacy](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-nsw-advocacy/) - [Australian veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/australian-veteran-families/) - [AWWNSW Town Hall](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/awwnsw-town-hall/) - [Town Hall](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/town-hall/) - [Art exhibition](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/art-exhibition/) - [contemporary war widow](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/contemporary-war-widow/) - [Veterans' and Families Expo](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/veterans-and-families-expo/) - [Our Space](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/our-space/) - [webinar](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/webinar/) - [War Widows NSW eNews](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-nsw-enews/) - [AWWNSW volunteers](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/awwnsw-volunteers/) - [International Volunteer Day](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/international-volunteer-day/) - [War Widows NSW volunteers](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-nsw-volunteers/) - [AWWNSW CEO](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/awwnsw-ceo/) - [CEO message](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/ceo-message/) - [AWWNSW rebrand](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/awwnsw-rebrand/) - [Branding consultation](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/branding-consultation/) - [AWWNSW events](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/awwnsw-events/) - [Our Space NSW](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/our-space-nsw/) - [War Widows NSW Events](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-nsw-events/) - [AWWNSW webinar](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/awwnsw-webinar/) - [International Women's Day 2024](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/international-womens-day-2024/) - [War Widows NSW webinar](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-nsw-webinar/) - [Families of Veterans Guild](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/families-of-veterans-guild/) - [defence families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/defence-families/) - [defence partners](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/defence-partners/) - [family event defence](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/family-event-defence/) - [wellbeing defence](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/wellbeing-defence/) - [Defence families events](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/defence-families-events/) - [wellbeing](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/wellbeing/) - [Families of veterans](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/families-of-veterans/) - [self-care](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/self-care/) - [community of peers](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/community-of-peers/) - [stress reduction](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/stress-reduction/) - [mental health](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/mental-health/) - [emotional support](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/emotional-support/) - [mindfulness](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/mindfulness/) - [self-care tips](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/self-care-tips/) - [health and wellness.](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/health-and-wellness/) - [mindful art creation](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/mindful-art-creation/) - [artistic process](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/artistic-process/) - [presence](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/presence/) - [creativity](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/creativity/) - [relaxation](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/relaxation/) - [imperfection](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/imperfection/) - [legislation reform](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/legislation-reform/) - [ACT](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/act/) - [carers](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/carers/) - [contribute](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/contribute/) - [consultation](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/consultation/) - [National Carer Strategy](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/national-carer-strategy/) - [veterans legislation](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/veterans-legislation/) - [carers of veterans](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/carers-of-veterans/) - [caring for a veteran](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/caring-for-a-veteran/) - [veteran care](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/veteran-care/) - [Defence Honours and Awards System](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/defence-honours-and-awards-system/) - [Safety](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/safety/) - [biophilia](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/biophilia/) - [wellbeing tips](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/wellbeing-tips/) - [defence families wellbeing](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/defence-families-wellbeing/) - [veteran families support](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/veteran-families-support/) - [nature](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/nature/) - [nature-based activities](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/nature-based-activities/) - [digital detox](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/digital-detox/) - [nature sounds](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/nature-sounds/) - [nature observation](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/nature-observation/) - [Wellness Walk](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/wellness-walk/) - [Canberra Events](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/canberra-events/) - [ADF Member Families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/adf-member-families/) - [Self-Care Activities](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/self-care-activities/) - [Peer Connection](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/peer-connection/) - [Family Wellbeing](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/family-wellbeing/) - [Free Events Canberra](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/free-events-canberra/) - [Mulligan Flat Wetlands](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/mulligan-flat-wetlands/) - [Wildbark Cafe](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/wildbark-cafe/) - [Support services](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/support-services/) - [Community connection](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/community-connection/) - [Volunteer services](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/volunteer-services/) - [Mental health support](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/mental-health-support/) - [Regional visit](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/regional-visit/) - [Forster-Tuncurry](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/forster-tuncurry/) - [Community outreach](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/community-outreach/) - [Veteran compensation](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/veteran-compensation/) - [New legislation](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/new-legislation/) - [Simplification and harmonisation](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/simplification-and-harmonisation/) - [Veteran entitlements](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/veteran-entitlements/) - [Policy reform](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/policy-reform/) - [War Widows Program](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-program/) - [Australia](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/australia/) - [Social clubs](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/social-clubs/) - [Outreach](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/outreach/) - [Community support](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/community-support/) - [Volunteer opportunities](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/volunteer-opportunities/) - [Campbelltown RSL](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/campbelltown-rsl/) - [100th Birthday Recognition Program](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/100th-birthday-recognition-program/) - [sydney events](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/sydney-events/) - [sydney defence families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/sydney-defence-families/) - [war widows support](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-support/) - [defence families support](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/defence-families-support/) - [in](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/in/) - [Sound Healing](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/sound-healing/) - [Veterans and Families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/veterans-and-families/) - [Wellbeing Events](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/wellbeing-events/) - [Veterans Guild](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/veterans-guild/) - [Relaxation Techniques](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/relaxation-techniques/) - [Community Events](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/community-events/) - [Veterans’ Health Week 2024](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/veterans-health-week-2024/) - [Carer support](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/carer-support/) - [Post Traumatic Growth](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/post-traumatic-growth/) - [Veterans Support](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/veterans-support/) - [Healing Journey](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/healing-journey/) - [Military Family](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/military-family/) - [Hope and Healing](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/hope-and-healing/) - [Overcoming Adversity](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/overcoming-adversity/) - [Trauma Recovery](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/trauma-recovery/) - [Nature Walk](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/nature-walk/) - [Mulligans Flat](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/mulligans-flat/) - [Community Event](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/community-event/) - [Outdoor Activities](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/outdoor-activities/) - [Biodiversity](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/biodiversity/) - [support war widows](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/support-war-widows/) - [war widow isolation](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widow-isolation/) - [donate to war widows](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/donate-to-war-widows/) - [Buy a Widow a Coffee](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/buy-a-widow-a-coffee/) - [war widow pin](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widow-pin/) - [war widow fundraiser](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widow-fundraiser/) - [lapel pin for war widows](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/lapel-pin-for-war-widows/) - [Australia war widows](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/australia-war-widows/) - [veteran spouse support](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/veteran-spouse-support/) - [grief support](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/grief-support/) - [social isolation awareness](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/social-isolation-awareness/) - [community support for widows.](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/community-support-for-widows/) - [yoga](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/yoga/) - [art](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/art/) - [World Mental Health Day](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/world-mental-health-day/) - [mental health awareness](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/mental-health-awareness/) - [mental well-being](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/mental-well-being/) - [mental health care](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/mental-health-care/) - [mental health stigma](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/mental-health-stigma/) - [open communication](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/open-communication/) - [mental health resources](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/mental-health-resources/) - [physical health](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/physical-health/) - [mental health tips](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/mental-health-tips/) - [resilience](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/resilience/) - [family health.](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/family-health/) - [sacrifice](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/sacrifice/) - [remembrance](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/remembrance/) - [peace](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/peace/) - [widows advocacy](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/widows-advocacy/) - [commemorative day](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/commemorative-day/) - [Workshop](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/workshop/) - [Free Events Sydney](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/free-events-sydney/) - [support veterans](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/support-veterans/) - [military families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/military-families/) - [veterans advocacy](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/veterans-advocacy/) - [widowhood](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/widowhood/) - [charity](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/charity/) - [public support](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/public-support/) - [veteran spouses](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/veteran-spouses/) - [military loss](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/military-loss/) - [isolation](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/isolation/) - [donation](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/donation/) - [support initiatives](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/support-initiatives/) - [war widows Australia](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-australia/) - [former presidents](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/former-presidents/) - [leadership](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/leadership/) - [dedication](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/dedication/) - [OAM recognition](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/oam-recognition/) - [War Widows Guild](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-guild/) - [video tribute](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/video-tribute/) - [guild leadership](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/guild-leadership/) - [women's leadership](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/womens-leadership/) - [War Widows Day 2024](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-day-2024/) - [war widows rights](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-rights/) - [post-war support](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/post-war-support/) - [empowerment](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/empowerment/) - [women's history](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/womens-history/) - [support network](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/support-network/) - [community strength](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/community-strength/) - [advocacy for women](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/advocacy-for-women/) - [Christmas](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/christmas/) - [Christmas Photoshoot](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/christmas-photoshoot/) - [Free canberra event](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/free-canberra-event/) - [national flower](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/national-flower/) - [2024 War Widows Day](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/2024-war-widows-day/) - [wattle lapel pin](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/wattle-lapel-pin/) - [WWD Pin](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/wwd-pin/) - [Renee Wilson](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/renee-wilson/) - [Senate Inquiry](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/senate-inquiry/) - [commemorations](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/commemorations/) - [Remembering them](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/remembering-them/) - [War widows social clubs](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-social-clubs/) - [remembrance month](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/remembrance-month/) - [Member stories](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/member-stories/) - [Anzac Memorial](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/anzac-memorial/) - [Bruce Dellit](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/bruce-dellit/) - [World War I](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/world-war-i/) - [architecture](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/architecture/) - [memorial design](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/memorial-design/) - [family sacrifice](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/family-sacrifice/) - [national history](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/national-history/) - [tribute to veterans](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/tribute-to-veterans/) - [aged care reform](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/aged-care-reform/) - [aged care rights](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/aged-care-rights/) - [government policy](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/government-policy/) - [Support at Home Program](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/support-at-home-program/) - [DVA benefits](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/dva-benefits/) - [aged care quality](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/aged-care-quality/) - [Important updates](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/important-updates/) - [Castle Hill](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/castle-hill/) - [art therapy](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/art-therapy/) - [gratitude](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/gratitude/) - [social support](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/social-support/) - [military life](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/military-life/) - [Veteran Children](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/veteran-children/) - [veteran suicide](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/veteran-suicide/) - [defence force](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/defence-force/) - [Poppy Project](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/poppy-project/) - [Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/kokoda-track-memorial-walkway/) - [community tribute](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/community-tribute/) - [handcrafted poppies](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/handcrafted-poppies/) - [Kokoda Day](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/kokoda-day/) - [honouring veterans](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/honouring-veterans/) - [Carer](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/carer/) - [War widows luncheon](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-luncheon/) - [Kokedama](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/kokedama/) - [Grief and Loss](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/grief-and-loss/) - [Managing Grief](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/managing-grief/) - [Grief at Christmas Time](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/grief-at-christmas-time/) - [Holiday Season](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/holiday-season/) - [Digest](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/digest/) - [Journaling](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/journaling/) - [Ukulele](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/ukulele/) - [Online events](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/online-events/) - [Online event](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/online-event/) - [International Women's Day 2025](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/international-womens-day-2025/) - [Legacy war widows](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/legacy-war-widows/) - [defence spouses](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/defence-spouses/) - [defence life](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/defence-life/) - [families impacted service](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/families-impacted-service/) - [CEO](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/ceo/) - [veteran families voices](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/veteran-families-voices/) - [International Women Day](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/international-women-day/) - [Womens Empowerment](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/womens-empowerment/) - [IWD2025](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/iwd2025/) - [Veterans Harmonisation Bill](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/veterans-harmonisation-bill/) - [Advocating for change](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/advocating-for-change/) - [advocate for change](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/advocate-for-change/) - [Compensation and income support](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/compensation-and-income-support/) - [War widows stories](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-stories/) - [The Guild Digest](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/the-guild-digest/) - [Rise Together Initiative](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/rise-together-initiative/) - [Women in Leadership Program](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/women-in-leadership-program/) - [Career support](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/career-support/) - [Veteran partner](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/veteran-partner/) - [Defence partner](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/defence-partner/) - [Wellbeing program](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/wellbeing-program/) - [defence wellbeing](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/defence-wellbeing/) - [join our team](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/join-our-team/) - [operation officer](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/operation-officer/) - [watercolour](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/watercolour/) - [ADF superannuation schemes](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/adf-superannuation-schemes/) - [Military Superannuation](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/military-superannuation/) - [Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/commonwealth-superannuation-corporation/) - [ADF veterans](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/adf-veterans/) - [superannuation benefits](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/superannuation-benefits/) - [Family dinner](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/family-dinner/) - [War widows story](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-story/) - [Member story](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/member-story/) - [Election 2025](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/election-2025/) - [Veteran families matter](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/veteran-families-matter/) - [BipartisanSupport](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/bipartisansupport/) - [Field of Remembrance 2025](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/field-of-remembrance-2025/) - [ANZAC March](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/anzac-march/) - [National volunteer week](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/national-volunteer-week/) - [Thank you to our volunteers](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/thank-you-to-our-volunteers/) - [Candle making](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/candle-making/) - [Defence and Veteran Services Commission](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/defence-and-veteran-services-commission/) - [online workshop](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/online-workshop/) - [Wellbeing walk](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/wellbeing-walk/) - [Cook and Connect](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/cook-and-connect/) - [Online activities](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/online-activities/) - [Creative writing](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/creative-writing/) - [Grief](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/grief/) - [Family lunch](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/family-lunch/) - [Veteran family dinner](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/veteran-family-dinner/) - [entitlements](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/entitlements/) - [war widows entitlements](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-entitlements/) - [information session](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/information-session/) - [Department of Veterans' Affairs](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/department-of-veterans-affairs/) - [defence widows](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/defence-widows/) - [Baking](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/baking/) - [DVA Webinar](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/dva-webinar/) - [Art making](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/art-making/) - [Defence family](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/defence-family/) - [Vic](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/vic/) - [Victory in the Pacific](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/victory-in-the-pacific/) - [Clay workshop](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/clay-workshop/) - [Carer Gateway](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/carer-gateway/) - [Carer Gateway Guide](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/carer-gateway-guide/) - [Guide to services](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/guide-to-services/) - [recognition](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/recognition/) - [family recognition](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/family-recognition/) - [senate committee](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/senate-committee/) - [legislation](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/legislation/) - [a war widows story](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/a-war-widows-story/) - [Mental Health Commission](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/mental-health-commission/) - [family movie](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/family-movie/) - [Jazz@theHouse](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/jazzthehouse/) - [Macrame workshop](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/macrame-workshop/) - [hanging sun catchers](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/hanging-sun-catchers/) - [writing through grief](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/writing-through-grief/) - [Christmas Cards](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/christmas-cards/) - [Christmas activities](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/christmas-activities/) - [Supporting war widows](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/supporting-war-widows/) - [19th October](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/19th-october/) - [War Widows Day 2025](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-day-2025/) - [War Widows Day lapel pin](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-day-lapel-pin/) - [War Widows Honour Roll](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-honour-roll/) - [War Widows Day Pin](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-day-pin/) - [Wattle Pin](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/wattle-pin/) - [War widows walk](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-walk/) - [war widows and families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-and-families/) - [Sydney Cenotaph](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/sydney-cenotaph/) - [Governor of NSW](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/governor-of-nsw/) - [Sir Peter Cosgrove](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/sir-peter-cosgrove/) - [Wattle Ceremony](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/wattle-ceremony/) - [storytelling](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/storytelling/) - [recognising sacrifice](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/recognising-sacrifice/) - [Christmas baubles](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/christmas-baubles/) - [YouGov](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/yougov/) - [Veteran Families Survey Report](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/veteran-families-survey-report/) - [Military Nurses](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/military-nurses/) - [Concord Repatriation Hospital](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/concord-repatriation-hospital/) - [Nursing History](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/nursing-history/) - [Military History](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/military-history/) - [Younger Members Social Club](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/younger-members-social-club/) - [E.M. Lane Concordians’ Museum](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/e-m-lane-concordians-museum/) - [Fussell House](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/fussell-house/) - [Veteran Wellbeing](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/veteran-wellbeing/) - [Historical Exhibits](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/historical-exhibits/) - [Women in Service](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/women-in-service/) - [WWII Nurses](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/wwii-nurses/) - [Remembrance Day 2025](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/remembrance-day-2025/) - [War widows social club](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-social-club/) - [Veterans Health Week](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/veterans-health-week/) - [Wellbeing Activities](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/wellbeing-activities/) - [War Widows Community](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-community/) - [Wreath Laying Ceremony](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/wreath-laying-ceremony/) - [Community Gathering](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/community-gathering/) - [War Widows Tradition](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-tradition/) - [Guided Walk](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/guided-walk/) - [Memorial Gardens](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/memorial-gardens/) - [Wellbeing and Health](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/wellbeing-and-health/) - [table tennis](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/table-tennis/) - [Canberra](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/canberra/) - [Vision board](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/vision-board/) - [2026 goals](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/2026-goals/) - [Life Membership](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/life-membership/) - [Christmas Social Club Gathering](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/christmas-social-club-gathering/) - [painting seashells](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/painting-seashells/) - [art creation](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/art-creation/) - [Christmas gatherings](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/christmas-gatherings/) - [Craft](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/craft/) - [Trivia](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/trivia/) - [Chinese Garden of Friendship](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/chinese-garden-of-friendship/) - [art and craft](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/art-and-craft/) - [Positive intentions](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/positive-intentions/) - [Wellbeing hike](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/wellbeing-hike/) - [War widows SA](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-sa/) - [South Australian war widows](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/south-australian-war-widows/) - [ACH Group](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/ach-group/) - [War widows news](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widows-news/) - [School holidays](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/school-holidays/) - [Sydney veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/sydney-veteran-families/) - [Adelaide veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/adelaide-veteran-families/) - [South Australian veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/south-australian-veteran-families/) - [Queensland veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/queensland-veteran-families/) - [Townsville veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/townsville-veteran-families/) - [Mothers Day](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/mothers-day/) - [Mothers](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/mothers/) - [Supporting women](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/supporting-women/) - [Modern women](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/modern-women/) - [outdated systems](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/outdated-systems/) - [IWD](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/iwd/) - [IWD2026](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/iwd2026/) - [Trivia for veteran families](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/trivia-for-veteran-families/) - [Sound immersion](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/sound-immersion/) - [Relaxing activities](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/relaxing-activities/) - [Relax](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/relax/) - [Meditation](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/meditation/) - [clay](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/clay/) - [kitchen clay workshop](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/kitchen-clay-workshop/) - [ANZAC Field of remembrance 2026](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/anzac-field-of-remembrance-2026/) - [Who will you remember?](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/who-will-you-remember/) - [ANZAC Day 2026](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/anzac-day-2026/) - [ANZAC Week](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/anzac-week/) - [National Defence Strategy](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/national-defence-strategy/) - [Adelaide Activities](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/adelaide-activities/) - [Adelaide](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/adelaide/) - [South Australia](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/south-australia/) - [Townsville](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/townsville/) - [war widow support](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/war-widow-support/) - [ANZAC Field of Remembrace](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/anzac-field-of-remembrace/) - [Field of Remembrance 2026](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/field-of-remembrance-2026/) - [ANZAC Week 2026](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/anzac-week-2026/) - [ANZAC Day 2026 Services](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/anzac-day-2026-services/) - [New membership](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/new-membership/) - [Membership](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/membership/) - [Membership Renewal](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/membership-renewal/) - [WWII Widows](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/wwii-widows/) - [Air dry clay](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/air-dry-clay/) - [Pensions](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/pensions/) - [Colouring](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/colouring/) - [Clay art](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/clay-art/) - [Morning tea](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/morning-tea/) - [TRE](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/tre/) - [Jessie Vasey CBE OBE](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/jessie-vasey-cbe-obe/) - [80th Anniversary](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/80th-anniversary/) - [Royal Botanic Gardens](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/royal-botanic-gardens/) - [coffee catch up](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/coffee-catch-up/) - [International Widows Day](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/international-widows-day/) - [Australian widows](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/australian-widows/) - [Widows](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/widows/) - [Crafting](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/crafting/) - [Geelong](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/geelong/) - [decluttering](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/tag/decluttering/) ## Picture tag - [80 years VPD](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/ngg_tag/80-years-vpd/) - [KTMW](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/ngg_tag/ktmw/) - [VP Day](https://familiesofveterans.org.au/ngg_tag/vp-day/)