Long-standing RSL member praised for efforts

RSL Airlie Beach deputy president Bill Rose was awarded a certificate of appreciation last Wednesday night as part of the sub branch’s Australia Day presentation.

Mr Rose has been involved with the RSL sub branch Airlie Beach since it was first formed in 1999.

Since his time with the branch he has worked in a number of roles from president to deputy president and local welfare co-ordinator – two of which he still occupies to date.

Through these roles he has taken great responsibility in organising ANZAC Day, Remembrance Day and Vietnam War commemorations.

As a local welfare co-ordinator, he also personally delivers newsletters to and works to better the lives of lasting troops in the area.

However to receive this award, Mr Rose said it was a “funny feeling”.

“You don’t do this for gain, no one told me to do, I came in myself and I never expected to receive anything for it,” he said.

“There are a lot of people who have done a lot of other things too – I just hope they get their turn.”

Mr Rose made special mention of his wife, Joan, who has also been there since day dot.

“With all the fundraising, raffling, selling and making bags she has done – she was one of the people I think deserve an award,” he said.

The 74-year-old plans to be part of the organisation until he is no longer capable.

“It’s in my blood,” Mr Rose said.