Hobart Legacy is calling on a new generation of Tasmanians to step forward, warning its ageing volunteer base is putting pressure on its ability to support hundreds of veterans’ families.
More than half of Hobart Legacy’s volunteers are now aged over 75, with the organisation looking to boost its ranks to ensure support continues for around 400 widows, widowers, children and families of veterans.
Legacy supports families after the death or injury of a loved one through military service, providing practical assistance, advocacy and social connection.
Hobart Legacy president David Waddle OAM said volunteer numbers had declined significantly over recent decades, with about 40 legatees now helping deliver its services compared with about 100 when he joined more than 25 years ago.
“We need extra support to help our existing legatees,” he said.
“We’re ageing, and to be able to look after the widows is quite a daunting task.”
Mr Waddle said changes to Legacy’s eligibility rules had led to an increase in the number of families receiving support, with Hobart Legacy welcoming about 15 new widows this year.
The organisation supports beneficiaries ranging from children as young as two through to people in their 100s, with volunteers providing assistance including regular check-ins, advocacy and help accessing services.
Among those helping shape Legacy’s future is 14-year-old Angus Gunn, who began volunteering at just 11 after a school project sparked his interest in military history.
Angus first made 500 poppies for RSL Tasmania before later helping Legacy during its annual badge week.
“It’s very rewarding,” he said.
“You get to speak to people you don’t really usually speak to, get good skills and yeah.”
Angus said he hoped more young people would become involved.
“It’d be good to see more young people doing it,” he said.
“Just go and help out. There’s nothing bad about it. It’s rewarding, and you get good experiences and good connections with people with it.”
Former Royal Australian Navy member and Hobart Legacy volunteer Cindy Gallahar said younger volunteers could learn from the organisation’s experienced members.
“We’ve got lots to learn from the older legatees, and their mentorship will be invaluable to the rest of us,” she said.
Mr Waddle said volunteers did not need a defence background, with Legacy welcoming both legatees, who work directly with beneficiaries, and Friends of Hobart Legacy, who support fundraising and community events.
“Legacy was built on the simple promise to look after the families left behind. That promise is just as important today as it was in 1923,” he said.
Anyone interested in volunteering can email [email protected].
