Community
2 June, 2023
Legacy celebrates centenary
SINCE 1923 Legacy has been helping the families of Australian Defence Force (ADF) men and women who have lost their lives or their health as a result of their service.
Founded on a promise made from one digger to another – to “look after the missus and the kids” - Legacy is this year celebrating its centenary.
To commemorate the special milestone a ‘Legacy torch’ will now spend six months travelling Australia, stopping wherever there is an active branch.
“The centenary relay is a six-month campaign to pay homage and acknowledge veterans’ families, saluting their sacrifice,”
Warrnambool Legacy member Charmian Morris said.
“Legacy is an iconic Australian charity that does so much wonderful work caring for 43,000 veterans’ families, including widows in their senior years, younger widows and children, partners and children of those veterans who have given their health.
“Legacy strives to ensure that those in their care can fully realise their potential.” Warrnambool Legacy was formed in 1947 and has continued to be there for the families of those who served and sacrificed, providing support their partners and children.
“We strive to ensure no person faces social isolation. Legacy has clubs such as ours, local events, holidays and camps where widows, children and families can come together, bond and create friendships,” Charmian said.
“Our Warrnambool group has members from all over the district, including Warrnambool, Port Fairy, Cobden, Camperdown, Timboon, Lismore, Mortlake, Terang and many surrounding towns.
“It’s wonderful to be able to not only promote the work of Legacy across the community but to encourage people to join as volunteers to help ensure Legacy continues well into the future.”
The centenary torch relay, which began in France in the lead-up to ANZAC Day, then travelled to London where it was greeted by King Charles before heading to Australia.
It is currently on a six-month tour of our shores and is anticipated to arrive in Warrnambool on Wednesday September 13.
The torch will travel more than 50,000 kilometres, through 100 stops, carried by around 1500 torch bearers – with an aim to raise over $10 million.
“It’s amazing to hear how many people are involved with the relay,” Charmian said.
“This year is a very special one for Legacy and we also hope that by increasing awareness of the wonderful assistance Legacy has provided, and will continue to provide, we can also attract more volunteers.
“It would be wonderful to have more young people involved; they are our future so it’s important that Legacy continues for another 100 years and beyond.”
More details of the torch arrival in Warrnambool will be known closer to the date.
