During World War I, the diggers made a promise to each other that, if they survived, they would take care of the wives and children of their mates who didn’t make it home.
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Since 1922, when Legacy was formed, this promise has been honoured throughout Australia says Batemans Bay Legacy volunteer Annette Arnould.
“Legacy is as relevant today as it has been in the past in supporting the widows and dependants of Australia Defence Force personnel,” Annette said.
“Though the number of widows of Second World War veterans is falling, there is an increase in widows of personnel serving in post-Second World War conflicts, such as Korea, Malaya, Vietnam and now Iran and Afghanistan.”
To ensure Legacy’s ongoing support, Legacy group volunteers will be on the streets of Batemans Bay and Moruya raising funds for Legacy Week, from August 28 to September 3, and in particular Badge Day on September 2.
Annette says that the Legacy Group of Batemans Bay and the Legacy Group of Narooma (which covers Moruya) care for more than 1000 widows and their dependants in the Eurobodalla Shire.
“Legacy care includes moral and financial support to the widows and educational support for children and students up to 25 years of age,” she said, “which ensures these children are not disadvantaged by the early death of their fathers or, in some case, their mothers.
“As we are a volunteer group and receive little government financial support, Legacy Week and Badge Day are our main source of funds.
“The money we raise, about $12,000 last year, is all spent within the area of collection and will be used to help widows and their children meet unexpected expenses, and pay fees and out-of-pocket expenses for school and tertiary students.
“It is surprising how many professional and successful members of the community owe their success to Legacy’s support.”
This Sunday personnel from 222 Cadet Unit begin the fundraising effort on the streets of Mogo.
Volunteer numbers will be boosted by 12 Batemans Bay High School and 12 St Peter’s Anglican College students, who will be in the Batemans Bay Industrial Area on August 31, and “all over town” on September 1 and 2 selling badges and good-quality pens.
On September 3 donations can be made at Batemans Bay Bunnings Store from 8.30am.
“If anyone can spare two hours to sell badges in their local area next week, especially on September 2, please ring 4472 8617 or 4471 2193 for the Batemans Bay area or 4471 7252 for Moruya and Narooma,” Annette said.
