The Australian Imperial Service of Women’s Auxiliary was formed in Phillip Street Sydney by mothers, wives, widows, sisters, daughters and aunts of men who served in the Australian Imperial Forces in the First World War [1914-1918]. The Auxiliaries grew from this beginning to raise money for the welfare of men and women who served and their widows and families. In 1947 at The Returned and Services League [NSW Branch] State Congress a Resolution was formed that a Central Council of Women’s Auxiliaries be established. Todd OBE, Country Vice President of The Returned and Services League of Australia [NSW Branch] held the first Returned and Services League Women’s Auxiliary Congress at the Young Women’s Christian Association Liverpool Street, Sydney. 140 Auxiliaries attended from all over NSW, approximately 3,110 members attending. The first President was Mrs. K Todd [1948-1949], Metropolitan Vice-President, Mrs. Pat Maitland, with Mrs. Hawkins the State Treasurer and Mrs. Gwen Richards as State Secretary. The Returned and Services League [NSW Branch] of Women’s Auxiliary is a non political non-sectarian organisation. We raise funds for the well being of our ex-service men and women and their dependants and current serving defence force personnel. Also hospital and convalescent visitations, home visits etc. Our funds are raised through raffles, street stalls and other functions to support our Welfare and Benevolent Institution. This assists the Welfare Officers to carry out their duties in providing for the ever increasing need for Welfare. At the appropriate times of the year we sell Anzac Badges and Remembrance tokens. Other fund raising avenues arise throughout the year in our local area and with our Sub-Branches. The Returned and Services League [NSW Branch] of Women’s Auxiliaries were founded on fellowship and a desire to care for our communities. This continues to exist to this day. Members enjoy the friendship of like- minded women and the opportunity to develop welfare skills. We enjoy visiting other Auxiliaries when they hold functions, sharing our ideas and ideals. We are a voluntary organisation, dedicated to raising funds for the Welfare of veterans of all wars and conflicts. Eligibility of membership is open to any woman over 16 years of age. Encouraging membership is the future of The Returned and Services League [NSW Branch] Women’s Auxiliaries to carry on this good work for years to come. Many present members have been in the Auxiliary for over 50 years, a lifetime of devotion to welfare of veterans.
