It’s been a while since the Martinborough RSA was an active part of our town’s rhythm. The COVID pandemic meant a temporary end to the regular gatherings, the chats over a coffee, the shared moments of remembrance. Meetings dropped away, and without enough hands to keep things going, momentum faded. But the spirit never disappeared.
So when a few of us gathered earlier this year to talk about the future, the ideas flowed quickly. What started as a simple conversation, ‘should we get the RSA going again?’ has grown into a clear and exciting plan, with a primary focus on people.
But what exactly is the RSA? Isn’t it the veterans organisation? Well, yes, but actually it’s a community organisation that is open to anyone to join. While it originally began as a place for returned servicemen to find support and friendship, it’s now open to anyone who shares those same values. Whether you’ve worn a uniform, have a family connection, or simply care about supporting others and being part of a local network – you’re welcome at the RSA.
It’s now open to anyone who shares those same values. Whether you’ve worn a uniform, have a family connection, or simply care about supporting others and being part of a local network – you’re welcome at the RSA.
The Martinborough RSA doesn’t have its own building, but we’re lucky to live in a town with a wonderful selection of places to meet and gather. The intention is to meet on the third Thursday of every month, alternating between a morning coffee group one month, and an evening social the next. It’s a simple way to stay connected and make sure there’s something that suits everyone’s schedule.
For those who have served, the RSA provides access to a network of trained Support Advisers. Their role is to assist members in understanding and accessing the various benefits that they are entitled to. This may include support from Veterans Affairs and RSA funding, as well as from government agencies including Ministry of Social Development, Kāinga Ora, and Ministry of Health. Dealing with these agencies and processes can be daunting, but RSA Support Advisers can guide you through each step and help make sure you get the support you deserve. Nigel Gattsche is the local adviser and can be contacted through Martinborough RSA.
The RSA will also be organising commemorations for significant occasions throughout the year. Our first will be Remembrance Day, when we’ll host a small gathering in Memorial Square. Everyone is warmly invited to join us at 10:45am on Tuesday,
11 November, for a brief ceremony of reflection, followed by a minute’s silence at 11:00am. It’s a simple but meaningful way for our community to pause together and honour those who served.
It’s exciting to see the RSA finding its feet again. It’s always been woven into Martinborough’s history, and now, with your support, we’re looking forward to making it a vibrant part of our town’s future too. If you’d like to get in touch, drop us a line at Martinborough.rsa@gmail.com, or look for us on Facebook.
We’d love to hear from you.
