THE Greater Springfield RSL Sub Branch is ushering in a new chapter under the leadership of its newly appointed president, Glenn West – and he’s wasting no time redefining what the RSL means to a new generation of veterans and their families.
Mr West, who joined the RSL family in 2020, said finding the right branch to call home was important to him – and that home turned out to be Springfield.
“I arrived at Greater Springfield Sub Branch in May 2025 and not long after, an AGM was called,” he said.
“For a variety of reasons, in July there was a change of leadership, and I was asked by the active service members to lead us into a new era. Hesitantly, I accepted, and I’m blessed with such an amazing group of younger veterans – all under 40 – who support me as their leader.”
That “new era” is focused on reconnecting with the original mission of the RSL – supporting veterans who have been broken by the sacrifices of service.
Mr West believes it’s time for sub branches to evolve to meet the needs of contemporary veterans.
“Too many veterans believe the RSL can’t offer anything relevant to them,” he said. “We’re changing that by meeting them where they are – not waiting for them to come to us.”
Part of this evolution involves a cultural shift in how RSL branches engage with younger members.
Mr West said attracting younger veterans had long been one of the biggest challenges the organisation faces, but it’s one he believes can be solved with a mix of fresh energy and experienced mentorship.
“The solution comes in three parts,” he said.
“Recruit younger key personalities into leadership. Empower them early to take charge of activities that appeal to their age group. And pair each of them with an experienced mentor who’s willing to guide them. The old guard’s wisdom is invaluable – it just needs to be shared in a way that helps the next generation lead.”
Looking ahead, Mr West and his team are planning to deliver a game-changing Anzac Day experience in 2026 – one that’s all about family and inclusion.
“We’ve already gained 60 new veterans this year, and next year’s Anzac Day celebrations are going to be very different,” Mr West said.
“Springfield will host its first-ever veterans march into Brighton Homes Arena, supported by the Brisbane Lions. As the veterans enter, we’re expecting our first RAAF and Army asset flyover – and maybe even a surprise international guest aircraft.”
The commemorations will include a dawn service that puts families and children at the heart of the event.
“Our dawn service won’t be led by politicians or senior officers – it will be led by everyday service members and their kids standing right beside them,” Mr West said.
“We’re focusing on families, because behind nearly every veteran is a family supporting them.”
The day will also feature an AFL Anzac Day match with men’s and women’s teams from the Australian Defence Force and Queensland Fire & Rescue – a celebration of service, sport and community.
Supported by both RSL Queensland and RSL Australia, the initiative marks a major step towards making the RSL relevant and relatable to modern veterans.
“It’s all about connection,” Mr West said. “The RSL was built to support veterans – now we’re making sure that includes every generation, and every family, who serves.”
