Rebekha Sharkie (Mayo, Centre Alliance) Share this | Hansard source

The Australian War Memorial is a long way from my electorate of Mayo, but recently I met with Dr Robyn van Dyk, the head of research at the Australian War Memorial, here in the Speaker's courtyard. I cheekily asked her if she would come to Mayo and meet with my community, and she very generously said yes. So, on 1 September, at the Macclesfield RSL, we held a forum, and Dr van Dyk came and spoke at that forum. The passion with which she spoke about her work in preserving our war records and memorabilia was infectious and inspired many attendees to investigate the histories within their local communities.

This passion was equalled by the South Australian DVA Deputy Commissioner, Janice Silby, who spoke to the group about the challenges faced by veterans and their families and, importantly, the supports that are available. And, to round up the event, Dennis Oldenhove provided information to the community on the virtual war memorial, on how he has accessed so many grants for his Maccy RSL and on the projects that the Maccy RSL has been able to achieve. I'd like to thank the Macclesfield RSL, particularly Dennis, and the whole team for what was a fantastic event. I'd also like to thank all of the RSLs across Mayo who were able to come along and attend. It was a wonderful event for our whole community.

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