General News
9 May, 2024
RSL grant life membership
In recognition of his extensive service to the Maryborough RSL sub branch, treasurer Garry Mayall has been awarded a life membership — a distinction, believed to be shared by only one other person in the group’s recent history. Mr Mayall, who...
In recognition of his extensive service to the Maryborough RSL sub branch, treasurer Garry Mayall has been awarded a life membership — a distinction, believed to be shared by only one other person in the group’s recent history.
Mr Mayall, who has been involved with the RSL and Vietnam Veterans for the past 34 years, received the award on Monday in the presence of fellow members and family.
Born and bred in Maryborough, Mr Mayall joined the Australian Defence Force in 1968, where he worked for years as a signalman.
After retiring from the army, he went into business with his father and eventually joined the RSL, going on to accept the role of treasurer in 2006.
Still in the executive position 18 years later, Mr Mayall was pleasantly surprised with his life membership conferral.
“It’s amazing, but I’m speechless — I did not expect anything like it and I’m really honoured,” he said.
“We’re all about mateship. We are all a great lot here. If someone’s got any trouble, all of us get in and help.
“You’re only as good as the people you’ve got behind you and I’ve been lucky in that respect, even with my wife, kids and grandchildren.”
During the presentation of the award, Maryborough RSL sub branch secretary Danny McIver said Mr Mayall was well-deserving of the recognition.
“It takes a very big commitment to volunteer in an executive position for as long as Garry Mayall has,” he said.
“He is without doubt the thread that keeps this place operating — Garry’s devotion to our RSL sub branch does not go unnoticed.
“These life memberships are only bestowed on members that provide extraordinary service.”
Last year, former sub branch president, Steve Braunton was also bestowed with a life membership and according to Mr McIver, no one else from the group, besides the two men, has received the honour.
“It’s a very rare accomplishment. Steve was the first to get it and Garry’s the second one. RSL Australia don’t give out them out very easily,” he said.
“Our branch has been running for over 100 years and we’ve only had two members, that I know of, who have gotten the life memberships.”