Honouring Tasmania’s veteran community

Ten ex-service organisations will share in more than $50,000 in grants to help strengthen and honour Tasmania’s veteran community.

Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Jacquie Petrusma, said the Teddy Sheean VC Memorial Grants Program funding reflected the Tasmanian Government’s continued commitment to backing veterans and recognising the vital role that ex-service organisations play.

“These grants are all about recognising the incredible work our veteran organisations do at the community level, like running programs, maintaining memorials and keeping veterans connected,” Minister Petrusma said.

“The grants provide a valuable boost to grassroots organisations and RSL clubs, helping them to continue their vital work supporting the health, wellbeing and connection of Tasmania’s veteran community.

“Whether it’s upgrading a local RSL hall, buying new tools and equipment, or supporting a welfare initiative, this funding goes directly where it is needed most.  

“We want every veteran in Tasmania to feel valued, supported and connected.

“An important part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future is continuing to support our valued veteran community."

Funding will go towards projects that strengthen local veteran clubs – from equipment upgrades and minor facility improvements to welfare programs and memorial restorations.

“Named in honour of Ordinary Seaman Edward ‘Teddy’ Sheean VC, the program celebrates the enduring legacy of one of Tasmania’s greatest heroes, who sacrificed his life to protect his crewmates during WWII,” Minister Petrusma said.

“Teddy’s courage and selflessness represent the spirit of all Tasmanians who have served, and this program ensures their service is honoured through meaningful, community-led action.

“Teddy Sheean’s story continues to inspire Tasmanians of all ages. Through this grant program, his legacy lives on — not just in name, but in the real support we deliver to our veteran community."

The successful recipients are:

• Esperance Sub-Branch RSLA Inc - $4100 for a new trailer and equipment to support yard care for the wellbeing of veterans
• South Arm RSL Sub-Branch Inc - $2000 towards the purchase of a water tank for the new South Arm Memorial Park
• The Headstone Project (Tas) Inc - $2640 towards assisting with headstones for unmarked graves for World War 1 Veterans
• Bridport Ex-Services, Bowls and Community Club - $2500 towards the installation of noise control panelling in the function room
• Oatlands Ex-Services and Community Club - $10,000 towards the cost of repairing and repainting the exterior of the RSL Club
• Launceston Legacy Inc - $2250 towards installing a flagpole to display and respect our flag
• Primrose Sands Sub-Branch Returned Services League Australia Inc - $10,000 towards the cost of upgrading the refrigeration system for the existing cool room
• Bracknell Town Hall Committee - $3480 towards works being undertaken on the Bracknell War Memorial Hall
• New Norfolk RSL Sub-Branch - $10,000 to replace internal concertina doors with glazed glass doors
• Deloraine Ex-service and Citizens Club - $3520 to upgrade the main drinks fridge