HUNDREDS of RSL NSW members from across the state are in Tamworth this weekend for the 2025 State Congress and Annual General Meeting – a pivotal gathering focused on shaping the future direction of the charity that has supported veterans and their families for more than 100 years.

The three-day event at the Tamworth Regional Entertainment and Conference Centre, was officially opened by Governor of NSW Margaret Beazley on Friday.

The Governor was joined by other dignitaries at the opening ceremony, including Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson and Mayor of Tamworth Russell Webb.

The Annual State Congress is a vital forum where RSL NSW members come together to discuss key issues affecting the veteran community.

These include the organisation’s ongoing response to the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, and other policy and advocacy efforts, veteran welfare initiatives as well as the League’s strategic direction to improve support services for current and former-serving Australian Defence Force personnel.

Hundreds of RSL NSW members from across the state are in Tamworth this weekend for the 2025 State Congress and Annual General Meeting (Image: RSL NSW).

Tamworth’s selection as host city for the Congress for three years reflects the growth of RSL NSW membership in the New England region – up 142 per cent since 2015 – and the revitalisation of local sub-Branches through grassroots activities which are proving successful in attracting younger veterans to the League.

RSL NSW Chair Louise Sullivan used her address to Congress delegates to reaffirm members’ lived experience must be at the heart of the organisation’s future, urging unity in advancing a sustainable and forward-looking strategy.

“These recent months have tested us – but it has also reminded us of who we are,” Ms Sullivan said. “We are the custodians of a proud legacy, entrusted to lead RSL NSW with integrity, purpose, and courage.

“Our 30,000 volunteers across over 300 sub-Branches are RSL NSW’s greatest asset. The Royal Commission’s findings have been confronting, and for many, deeply personal.

“But they have also reinforced the critical role we play: to ensure no veteran is left behind, and that every knock on our door is met with real support.

“To keep delivering for veterans and their families, we must be prepared to meet our own challenges, adapt where needed, and stand in solidarity in our commitment to evolve.”

Describing the Congress as a pivotal moment, Ms Sullivan underscored the importance of collective action.

“This Congress is an opportunity to come together in support of a proud and much-loved institution,” she said.

“If we are to remain the State’s leading ex-service organisation, then the path forward must be shaped by all of us.”

The RSL NSW board appointed Brigadier Vincent Williams as a director and acting president (Image: RSL NSW).

Looking ahead, RSL NSW will continue to develop its next strategic plan beyond 2026, drawing on outcomes from Congress and a structured, consultative process with members.

“Together, with honesty, courage and respect, we can ensure RSL NSW not only endures but thrives for another hundred years and beyond,” Ms Sullivan said.

Meanwhile, the RSL NSW board appointed Brigadier Vincent Williams  as a director and acting president.

Mr Williams’ appointment was ratified on Friday ahead of the RSL NSW Annual State Congress.

As acting president, Mr Williams will assume the ceremonial responsibilities of the president, in line with the RSL NSW Constitution, until that position is filled at next year’s Annual General Meeting.

He will also act as spokesperson for RSL NSW on key veteran issues.

Mr Williams said he was honoured by the opportunity to step into the role and help guide the League through its next chapter.

“I am deeply honoured to take up the position of Acting President of RSL NSW,” Mr Williams said. “The RSL is one of Australia’s most respected and enduring institutions, and it is a privilege to serve our members, veterans, and their families in this role,” he said.

“I look forward to contributing to the strong leadership and continued good governance of this proud and much-loved organisation as we work together to uphold its values of service, camaraderie, and support for all who have served.”