Regula Black OAM
Regula Black has devoted her retirement to supporting veterans, their families and the community in Beaumaris. She is a Life Member of the National RSL Women's Auxiliary and is heavily involved in the Thunderbird Owners Club of Australia and the Beaumaris Returned and Services League of Australia (RSL) Sub-Branch.
Her compassion, impact and community spirit is being recognised with a Medal of the Order of Australia.
Reg was in total disbelief when she found out she would be receiving an award and asked her husband if he thought it was a hoax.
“This is such a huge award – it’s so outstanding that I struggle to comprehend it. I thought it was a fake, I had to read it over and over before I could believe it was real.
“I do what I do because I enjoy it and I love being in the community – it’s just stunning to me that someone appreciates the work.”
Reg’s drive for keeping the Beaumaris RSL Sub-Branch afloat saw an increase in fundraising efforts. As a community, they were able to raise enough money to repaint and carpet the club. Unfortunately, despite these efforts, the Beaumaris RSL had to close.
“I feel that older veterans are a forgotten group because of their age and their inability to get out into the community.”
Reg found that this was particularly relevant during COVID-19 and wanted to help the veterans with the support of the Women's Auxiliary. The group decided to deliver afternoon tea to the door steps of veterans with the hope of reassuring them that “we are here, you’re not alone”.
Reg believes many people do so much beyond the circle which they work in and it goes unnoticed by others. She is quick to praise the tireless work of all of the volunteers in the groups with which she is involved.
“I think it’s a shame because if it’s not part of their own career, if it is something they do on a volunteer basis, they should be acknowledged. I’m astounded by what people do for others and I come across it all the time.”
Do you know someone making an outstanding contribution in your community? They too could be recognised. Nominations can be made at any time, by anyone – find out more.