ABOUT OUR SUB BRANCH
WHO WE ARE
Welcome to the North Gold Coast RSL Sub-Branch, a proud and dedicated community honouring the sacrifices of our servicemen and women. Established in 2000, our Sub-Branch has grown from humble beginnings into a vibrant hub for remembrance, support, and commemoration.
The history and evolution of the Coomera/Oxenford RSL Sub-Branch, now the North Gold Coast Sub-Branch in Queensland, Australia is a remarkable story. Key milestones include:
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Hosting ANZAC Day services since 2000, with attendance growing from 100 to around 6,000 by 2020.
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Building memorials and enhancing accessibility, like the Remembrance Park and Upper Coomera memorial.
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Incorporating local schools, cadets, and scouts in events to preserve the memory of service.
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Completing commemorative murals in Helensvale and Ormeau to honor WWI soldiers.
The Sub-Branch's vision is deeply rooted in honoring military service and fostering community remembrance.
Mission
Our mission is to ensure the enduring memory of those who served our nation.
With every memorial we build and every event we host, we aim to foster a strong sense of community and remembrance.
We invite everyone to join us in preserving the spirit of service and sacrifice.
ANZAC Day Commemorations
Since 2000, we have hosted ANZAC Day commemorations, starting with a small service of 100 attendees at the Maudsland CWA Hall. By 2020, our Dawn Services attracted over 6,000 people, thanks to our dedicated efforts to build meaningful and accessible memorials, including the Remembrance Park at Club Helensvale and the Upper Coomera memorial. We proudly involve local schools, cadets, and scouts, ensuring that future generations remember and honour the service to our nation.
Memorials and Community Projects
We are proud custodians of Remembrance Park, which features plaques honouring Australian Defence Force military history from the Waikato War (Māori War) to Afghanistan. The park also hosts a Lone Pine Tree, planted during a Battle of Lone Pine service in 2016.
Our commitment to remembrance extends to public art. In 2018, we unveiled a commemorative mural in Helensvale honouring 30 Gold Coast soldiers who fell in WWI. A second mural in Ormeau further pays tribute to the local servicemen.
The History of the North Gold Coast RSL Sub-Branch
A Story of Growth and Leadership
The North Gold Coast RSL Sub-Branch has a rich and inspiring history, shaped by the dedication and vision of its members and leaders. From its beginnings in the CWA Hall at Maudsland in 2000 to its current prominence as a hub for community and remembrance, the Sub-Branch has evolved through the contributions of remarkable individuals.
The Early Years
The Sub-Branch was established in 2000 under the name Coomera/Oxenford RSL Sub-Branch. Starting with just 16 members, it was led by the initial executive team:
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President: Gary Cannon
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Vice President: Ray Heathcotte
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Secretary: Barry Holloway
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Treasurer: Lorelle Payne
Gary Cannon was instrumental in laying the foundation for the Sub-Branch, serving as President until 2005. His leadership fostered a strong sense of purpose and community among the members, establishing the groundwork for future growth.
In 2006, the Sub-Branch received its first Charter, formalizing its mission to honour Australia's servicemen and women. Norm Kelly succeeded Gary Cannon as President in the same year, continuing to guide the Sub-Branch until 2008. Norm’s leadership played a vital role in consolidating the Sub-Branch’s position in the community.
A Period of Transformation
In 2009, Don Robinson was elected President, marking a transformative era for the Sub-Branch. Under Don’s leadership, the Sub-Branch was issued a new Charter on July 7, 2009, changing its name to the North Gold Coast Sub-Branch to better reflect the geographical area it served. Don also oversaw the relocation of the Sub-Branch from its original home at Maudsland’s CWA Hall to Club Helensvale, forging a lasting partnership with the club.
This move was a pivotal moment, providing the Sub-Branch with greater visibility and resources to expand its activities. Don Robinson’s vision and efforts were critical in redefining the Sub-Branch’s identity and strengthening its ties with the community.
New Leadership and Continued Growth
In 2010, Ken Golden, OAM, took on the role of President, bringing fresh direction to the Sub-Branch. Ken’s tenure was marked by his commitment to enhancing the Sub-Branch’s impact. His leadership contributed to significant milestones, including the Sub-Branch’s incorporation on January 16, 2014. This formal recognition was accompanied by a new Charter under the name Returned & Services League of Australia (Queensland Branch) North Gold Coast RSL Sub Branch Inc.
The contributions of Gary Cannon, Norm Kelly, Don Robinson, Ken Golden and other leaders have been central to the Sub-Branch’s success. Their vision and dedication transformed the Sub-Branch into an organization that not only honours military service, but also fosters a strong sense of community.
This history is a testament to the power of collective effort and the impact of devoted leadership in preserving the legacy of service and sacrifice. Through the years, the North Gold Coast RSL Sub-Branch has remained steadfast in its mission to honour and remember Australia’s servicemen and women.