Event of the Year - Nominees

Vietnam Veterans’ Day was held at the Leongatha RSL on 18 August 2023. 2023 was the 50th anniversary of the end of this conflict, so an event was held to commemorate the service of all Vietnam veterans and their families.

Despite inclement weather, the community rallied behind the event showing their support and appreciation for those who served. Over 100 adults and more than 40 students from Leongatha Primary School attended with the school children singing in front of the large crowd.

The event also assisted in bringing the knowledge of the Vietnam War to the fore, with the school children learning about this horrible and divisive war.

The event involved a wreath laying and ceremonial proceedings at the cenotaph in Leongatha. When asked about the event, a local Vietnam veteran remarked on how understood he has felt in the years after his service. By attending this event, he has felt more respected, appreciated and welcomed than ever before.

Over $700 was raised at the event, which the Leongatha RSL is hoping to use to put in a lovely park bench where people can reflect on the service of our men, women and families.