Historical information

Women’s Auxiliaries were formed by mothers, wives, widows, sisters, daughters and aunts of men who served in the First World War.
In May1918 a small band of women from the "Friendly Union" organised themselves,under the leadership of Mrs F C Purbrick, into a Women's Auxiliary of the Wangaratta Returned Soldiers Association (RSA). Their first task was to furnish club rooms for the RSA and this was achieved by seeking donations and raising money by selling jams, jellies and posies of violets by selected girls wearing special badges in the street. Over the years funds have been raised through raffles, competitions, street stalls and catering at numerous events to assist the aims of the Returned Services League. In 2018 the Wangaratta RSL Women's Auxiliary celebrated its centenary.

Significance

Women have played a central role in sustaining the activities of ex-service organisations. Women's auxiliaries are dedicated to fundraising, supporting the activities of their local RSL, and caring for veterans in their wider community. Today, there are more than 1200 auxiliary members in Victoria.

Physical description

Red timber shield mounted on brown laminated base of particle board in a larger shield shape with metal emblem.

Inscriptions & markings

Women's Auxillary RSL on metal logo with Crown and Australian Flag mounted on red shield