Poppy Services
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Poppy Services
Funeral Services and Remembrance
As you prepare to lay your loved one to rest, you are not alone; we are with you. We consider it an honour and privilege to farewell those who served our country.
One of our solemn responsibilities is to extend the opportunity for a Poppy Service, arranged by the RSL, upon the passing of a Sub Branch member or any veteran. This service, conducted by an RSL Sub Branch member, includes presenting a boxed flag to the next of kin.
Should the family wish or request, we respectfully perform the traditional RSL segment of the service, even if conducted by clergy or a celebrant. Our aim is simple – to honor the late veteran’s invaluable contribution to their beloved country’s peace and freedom.
The loss of a military family member deeply affects us all, and we consider it our duty to ensure their sacrifices are remembered. We strive to bid farewell with reverence, ensuring appropriate recognition for their service.
Additionally, we extend assistance to families in need with funeral arrangements and expenses.
In cases where there are no known relatives, we arrange a dignified funeral service attended by RSL representatives, ensuring no veteran is laid to rest alone.
Moreover, we actively seek out and honor unmarked graves where veterans rest, providing descendants the opportunity for a proper farewell and recognition. If you are aware of an unmarked veteran grave, please contact us.
Many of our Sub Branches can provide a Poppy Service to complement the funeral of a service man or woman.
As part of a Poppy Service, an RSL representative will:
- deliver a eulogy, detailing the veteran’s service
- recite The Ode
- sound The Last Post and Rouse
- provide poppies for mourners to place on the coffin in recognition of service.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE?
Any person who has served in the Australian Defence Force can be honoured with a Poppy Service. They do not have to have been a member of the RSL.
WHAT DOES IT COST?
Poppy Services are provided free of charge. They are one of the ways we honour servicemen and women for their contribution and support you – their family – through this difficult time.
REQUEST A POPPY SERVICE
Poppy Services are conducted by our Sub Branch volunteers.
If your loved one was an RSL member, you can talk to their RSL Sub Branch about the possibility of conducting a Poppy Service. If they weren’t a member, or you aren’t sure, please contact us to see if we are able to conduct a Poppy Service.
