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 Laycock and Corporal Alexander Naggs. Families who bid their loved ones farewell on another exercise never imaging that they wouldn’t return.

Our deepest sympathies and condolences are with these families and the family of our dear Diana during and beyond this difficult time.

From all of us at AWWNSW, take care of yourselves and one another.

This edition of the newsletter contains an update on the many things that are and have been happening this month.

Read the August 2023 newsletter online HERE or download HERE.

Read our previous e-Newsletters here:

AWWNSW eNewsletter June 2023

AWWNSW eNewsletter May 2023

The post AWWNSW ENEWSLETTER AUGUST 2023 first appeared on Families of Veterans Guild.

In just a few weeks time, the 70th anniversary of the Anzac Field of Remembrance will be taking place once again in St Andrew’s Cathedral Sydney. For those of you who still need to register, there is still time. Click here to register.  

I encourage you all to watch this heartwarming video created by the Vinnies Haberfield Men\’s Shed who made with care thousands of crosses for our members to commemorate at the Field of Remembrance, at a local Anzac service or at home in their own personal way.  

I look forward to seeing many of you soon to honour and pay tribute to those who have served and gave their lives in service to our nation, and to recognise the losses and sacrifices of war widows and families.  

Click here to view the newsletter online. 

Rhondda Vanzella OAM
President of NSW & National Australian War Widows

\”We rise by lifting others\”

The post AWWNSW eNewsletter March 2022 first appeared on Families of Veterans Guild.

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 of these many phone services available.

It is pleasing to hear that so many of you are there for one another. I hear stories of members checking in on each other following time in hospital or during illness – with a cuppa and a cake, and phone calls to offer a listening ear. These kind gestures are so very important during the pandemic.

We are keeping a close watch on public health orders and are hopeful that Guild and Social Clubs can meet again soon. Planning has commenced for the Anzac Field of Remembrance. This year is the 70th anniversary of the event. The team is working hard to ensure it all goes ahead in a COVID safe manner.

This week is particularly challenging for many in our community with the recommencement of the hearings into the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran suicide. To our members who will be a part of these hearings, we are here to support you in whatever way we can. You are welcome to contact our CEO, Renee Wilson on 02 9267 6577 or rwilson@warwidowsnsw.com.au

AWWNSW will continue to support and be the voice of widows, women and families connected to defence service through our advocacy. We will continue to help support the health and wellbeing of our community through our services and programs and are hopeful for the years and future ahead.

Click here to view the newsletter online or download here.

Rhondda Vanzella OAM
President of NSW & National Australian War Widows

The post AWWNSW eNewsletter February 2022 first appeared on Families of Veterans Guild.