One RSL Victoria Sub-Branch is proving that health and wellbeing isn’t just about the physical benefits, it’s about the mateship and mental wellness too.

Minister for Veterans Shaun Leane made the trip out to the Warragul RSL Sub-Branch on Tuesday, October 4 during Veterans’ Health Week, following the Sub-Branch's ongoing success in bringing the RSL Active program to veterans in their local community.

Mr Leane met with veterans who have been participating in free weekly workout sessions as a part of the RSL Active program.

RSL Active is a program from RSL Victoria that provides health and wellbeing activities to veterans. Through participating in the RSL Active program veterans can develop social networks, share ideas, tell stories, and enhance support circles.

Mr Leane praised the Warragul RSL Sub-Branch for their efforts in bringing the RSL Active program to their local community, especially in light of Veterans’ Health Week which is running from October 1 –9.

Mr Leane said, “We know how important exercise and social connection is to the ongoing wellbeing of our veteran community, and the Warragul RSL should be immensely proud of the role they play in supporting veterans and their families to stay engaged with their community.”

“Victoria’s RSLs do an incredible job delivering vital welfare support to our veterans," he said.

Warragul RSL Sub-Branch President Ben Vahland said the RSL Active program offered a safe place for like-minded people to do something beneficial for their minds and bodies.

“It is quite powerful to see the impact of the RSL Active program. I’ve seen people who haven’t spoken about their mental health issues in 40 years suddenly open up. For families, it can also provide an opportunity for the partner of a veteran to talk to someone who understands.

“Though RSL Active we’ve found a powerful way to engage and reconnect with veterans who have been hurting and hidden away from the people who can help.”

RSL Victoria has received $400,000 in Victorian Government funding over the last three years to support the delivery of the RSL Active Program in local RSL Sub-Branches across Victoria.

The program is a key component of the Government’s ongoing support for veteran wellbeing.

Activities are online as well as across several locations throughout Victoria.

Learn more about the RSL Active program here: https://rslvic.com.au/veteran-support/rsl-active