THE concept of bringing back a Coffs Harbour branch of the RSL Auxiliary who will help our veterans and their families is gaining momentum.

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Coffs Harbour RSL sub-branch vice president and treasurer Garry Heskett proudly introduced the first two members of the new auxiliary.

Now he’s on the lookout for more members to help veterans as well as provide visits to them in hospital, in aged care and those convalescing at home.

“People sitting there thinking they want to do more for our veterans, here’s your opportunity,” Mr Heskett said.

The word ‘women’ was removed from the name of the auxiliaries in 2018, which opened membership to any person seeking to advance and support the charitable objects of the Auxiliary’s sub-branches.

One man who’s stepped forward to offer support anyway he can is Darryl Groth.

The son of a veteran who passed shortly after returning to Australia at the end of WW2, Mr Groth said it struck him that joining the auxiliary offered him the opportunity to offer assistance to those who’ve served our country and their families.

“I thought I’ve got to do something so I came down here and helped,”he said.

Margaret Black said helping others is a good deed well worth doing.

“You need to help,” she said.

“If you get a chance to help you should do it.

“You never know when you’re going to need help.”

Mr Heskett said those who were members of the auxiliary but haven’t been for a while are more than welcome to rejoin.

“I encourage former members to come back and help lead and encourage our new members who are willing to volunteer their time,” he said.

Those interested in joining the Coffs Harbour sub-branch can contact Heskett on 0414 512 302 or send an email to coffsrsl@hotmail.com.

Alternatively, prospective auxiliary members can attend a general meeting held on the third Saturday of each month and/or a Thursday coffee session at C.ex Coffs.

Both start at 10.30am.

By Brad GREENSHIELDS