Established in the trenches of World War I, Legacy Australia was built on a promise between two diggers; a promise that has been honoured for over a decade.
Legacy Australia has been supporting Veteran’s families since 1923 and in Mackay since 1947, but the branch faces an uncertain future if it doesn’t find more volunteers.
The role of a Legacy volunteer, known as a Legatee, is to conduct welfare checks, either via a visit or a phone call, to the region’s war widows, and to be able to assist them when required.
There are currently 140 women in the Legacy Mackay database and less than 10 Legatees to attend to them all.
“We’re supposed to go and visit those 140 ladies and when you divide that by the number of volunteers, it’s a full-time job and we’re only volunteers,” said President Les Palmer.
“We need people who will take on Legatee positions,” added Secretary Lorrayne Morris.
Ms Morris gains great satisfaction from volunteering for Legacy, saying she feels a sense of pride and accomplishment.
“Talking to the elderly, they’re really lovely to talk to,” she said.
“They’ve got some beautiful stories.”
That’s what enticed incoming volunteer Peter Gibbon, who is involved in the RSL Marian Sub Branch and in discussions to become a Legatee.
“As a volunteer, you talk to the elderly, they are the history of the community here and wider,” Mr Gibbon said.
“They have so many stories that are relevant and they’ve seen changes that nobody else has seen.
“If you’re giving back to the community in this way, with Legacy and other areas, you’ll actually gain so much satisfaction.”
“It’s very rewarding, but it is time-consuming,” added Mr Palmer.
Legacy Australia holds the expectation of at least 20 Legatees to make Legacy Mackay viable, with the branch facing the possibility of amalgamating with Townsville if numbers don’t rise.
“If we can keep it alive, maybe we won’t have to amalgamate,” said Ms Morris.
Legacy Mackay are seeking volunteers of all ages and backgrounds and allow for flexible time commitment, however, recommend the role to those working part-time, the semi-retired and retired.
A blue card is required, and new volunteers will be expected to attend meetings before taking up the role to ensure compatibility.
The team is also seeking volunteers for Legacy Badge Week, which involves two hour shifts selling badges and memorabilia at stalls across Caneland Central, Parkside Plaza, Marian, Proserpine and Sarina.
Legacy Badge Week runs from August 27 to September 2.
Those interested in volunteering can contact Mr Palmer on 0437 451 635 or visit the branch at 94 Nebo Road on Mondays and Fridays between 9:00am and 12:00pm.
Legacy Mackay President Les Palmer, Secretary Lorrayne Morris and incoming volunteer Peter Gibbon. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie
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