Sunbury’s record Poppy Appeal

Hume councillor Jarrod Bell (right) and Sunbury RSL secretary Harry Beckwith hit the pavement to raise funds for veterans. (Supplied)

Sunbury RSL has smashed its Remembrance Day Poppy Appeal fundraising record, exceeding its biggest previous return by $20,000.

The organisation raised $50,000 through the sales of commemorative poppy pins.

This year marks the centenary of the Poppy Appeal, which has become a nationwide donation drive with funds raised contributed to improving wellbeing outcomes for service veterans and their families.

Hume councillor Jarrod Bell joined Sunbury RSL president Graeme Williams and secretary Harry Beckwith on the streets of Sunbury selling poppies to the community.

Speaking at a council meeting last week, Cr Bell said it was great to see such overwhelming support for veterans.

“The RSL has done amazing work in supporting veterans, their families and the veteran community, through challenging times. From the wars of 100 years ago, to the wars that only finished a couple of weeks ago,” he said.

Cr Bell also praised the ceremony held by Sunbury RSL at the Sunbury cenotaph to mark Remembrance Day on November 11.

“It is an amazing event always run by the RSL who put a great deal of passion, effort and meaning into their services,” Cr Bell said.

Cr Medcraft said approximately 100 people attended the ceremony, with the crowd filled with all age groups from “young to veterans”.

To donate to the Poppy Appeal, visit: poppyappeal.com.au/

Oliver Lees