DEFENCE NEWS

On the 11/11/2021, Ripley Valley State Secondary College will commemorate Remembrance Day with a ceremony that will be attended by students, staff, local dignitaries and ADF personnel.

ADF student representatives along with our Principal, Brendan Krueger, will also attend the official commemoration held in Ipswich by the RSL Ipswich Sub Branch on behalf of the College.

Remembrance Day is considered one of the most significant commemorations on the Military Calendar. At 1100 hours, Australians will observe 1 minutes silence in memory of those who fought, died or suffered in all wars and armed conflicts and appreciation of their sacrifice.

If you or your student would like to know more about Remembrance Day or any other Military Commemoration or event, you can log onto https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/

Badges and poppies will be available to purchase next week.  Badges will cost $5, poppies 50 cents.

Open Arms Program – Sleeping Better

Sleeping Better is an educational and skills-based group program to assist in managing disturbed sleep. All current and former ADF personnel, as well as anyone in their immediate families, are able to attend this free two-day program which will be held on 15 & 16 November at Open Arms, Spring Hill. To register for this program, contact Open Arms on 1800 011 046 or visit www.OpenArms.gov.au and search for “Sleeping Better”. Registrations close on 1 November.

Defence Family Helpline and Support Services

The Defence Family Helpline is the first port of call for support to ADF families. Practical and emotional support is available from qualified human service professionals 24/7 by contacting 1800 624 608 or emailing:

defencefamilyhelpline@defence.gov.au

Support the Troops Christmas Care Packages

Every year, Australia Post delivers care packages to our deployed troops sent by the public, including community groups, organisations and individual households. This year’s “Support the Troops Christmas Day” mailing window is Monday 1 November to Friday 12 November. If you, your family or workplace would like to create a parcel to send, the postal address is: 

An Australian Defence Member

AFPO 60

Australian Defence Force NSW 2890

Tracey Cooper

Defence School Mentor

Ripley Valley Cluster Schools