Member for Riverina Michael McCormack and Pro Patria’s Jason Frost and Angelo Strano speak about the importance of funding to the veterans support centre. Photo: Jarryd Rowley.
For many, Anzac Day is a time for remembrance and commemoration of the service men and women who have served and who are serving in the Australian Defence Force.
For some veterans however, it is a day they don’t wish to be a part of.
Member of the Pro Patria Board of Directors and retired Army Sergeant Jason Frost said the lack of support for Australian veterans regarding issues such as homelessness, mental health support, and financial aid, had led to some refusing to take part in Anzac Day.
“A lot of people still struggle to actually get out, put their medals on and go make an appearance in public, because of what might have happened to them post-service,” he said.
“I think it [Anzac Day] is a time for reflection, respect and remembrance, and then beyond that, we get back into the work of things that are causing difficulties for our vets and keep continuing to try to move the ball forward and make advancements in these different areas.
“I think it’s important for us [Pro Patria] to continue to raise funds to be able to do some of the stuff that we are trying to do here, and the commitment from the Federal Government would definitely help us along that way.
“Post royal commission, we’ve identified a lot of shortfalls.
“After working on the ground in Wagga for the last 10 years, a lot of us have really started to identify a lot of those shortfalls in our community. So the importance of this centre is as important now as it ever has been before.”
Member for Riverina Michael McCormack has pledged to continue supporting the Pro Patria Centre to the tune of $250,000 if re-elected, stating that Wagga is a military city that needs to look after its veteran community.
“Wagga Wagga is a garrison city and the only regional city to host all three arms of the Defence Force,” he said.
“It is essential not just for the nation but also, crucially, for the Wagga Wagga community that we stand by and support our veterans — that’s why I am so eager to deliver this funding if re-elected as the Member for Riverina with a Coalition government.”
Pro Patria Centre board director Jacqui Van de Velde welcomed the funding commitment.
“This funding will be directed towards upgrading critical power infrastructure, installing rooftop solar systems and completing the much-needed carpark improvements at the Pro Patria Centre,” Ms Van de Velde said.
“These developments will not only improve the functionality of our facilities but will also support our journey toward sustainability and financial independence, ensuring we can continue to deliver vital services to the veteran community long into the future.”
