During March, the team enjoyed two local events. Several members of the Committee manned a stall at the Martinborough Fair, where we had a display of photos of some of our members, which provided a great conversation starter to discuss the role of the RSA.
Several members talked about how they and their family members have served over the years. We would like to expand the display to include more photos of Martinborough locals who have been involved with the NZDF over the years. If you have any photos or stories that we might be able to scan, contact us at Martinborough.rsa@gmail.com.
The second event was our Third Thursday social, a coffee catch-up at Kitchener’s. Membership isn’t a requirement, so feel free to come if you want to find out more about the RSA. Details of upcoming events are sent via email, or follow Martinborough RSA Facebook to find out more.
The Committee’s focus has now turned to Poppy and Anzac Day 17th April. Poppy Day is a significant fundraising event, held annually to support veterans and their families. Donations are collected through the sale of poppies. Representatives will be at Kitcheners and P&K supermarket collecting donations. Cash is preferred, but we are intending to have an EFTPOS machine operating.
Poppy Day is a significant fundraising event, held annually to support veterans and their families. Donations are collected through the sale of poppies. Representatives will be at Kitcheners and P&K supermarket collecting donations.
The Anzac Dawn Service is an annual event that has its roots in the years after the Anzac landings
at Gallipoli in 1915. It’s estimated almost 12,000 Australian or New Zealand troops were killed in that campaign, and most towns in New Zealand had men who never returned.
This year those who are attending should gather outside P&K supermarket on Jellicoe Street at 0545 on Saturday 25th April. It will be dark so bring a torch. The Parade will march at 0600, moving to the middle of Memorial Square where a Service of Remembrance will be held. After the Parade will march to the Town Hall where the local Rural Women New Zealand chapter will serve refreshments.
We warmly welcome organisations and individuals who would like to lay a wreath. If you are intending to do so, please email us at martinborough.rsa@gmail.com with the name of your organisation. We’ll create an order of laying and assign a number to each group so everyone knows when to step forward and things can proceed without crowding.
