ANZAC Day Fundraising Wrap-Up
This ANZAC Day, as our community gathered to honour the service and sacrifice of our veterans, Cronulla RSL also turned its focus to another group of quiet heroes — our four-legged veterans.
Following the official commemorations, Two Up once again took centre stage on the green at Cronulla RSL. The much-loved tradition was filled with mateship, laughter, and community spirit. But this year, playing Two Up meant even more, with all funds raised going directly to support some very special causes.
In total, $9,239.05 was collected through a variety of fundraising efforts, with Cronulla RSL generously topping up an additional $500 to bring the final donation amount to $9,739.05.
The funds were raised through several community-driven initiatives: the very first bet placed by the Two Up Spinner, proceeds from the community BBQ — made possible thanks to the generous support of Cronulla Beach Butcher who donated the sausages — and contributions from Return & Earn and cash donations received throughout the day.
Where Did the Funds Go?
All donations collected on ANZAC Day were directed to support the following initiatives:
Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation (AWAMO) – Honouring and supporting animals that have served alongside our troops - $2,500
Working Paws Australia – Providing care and rehoming services for working and retired service dogs - $2,500
Local retired Military Working Dogs (MWDs), Manic and Aslan – Supporting their ongoing wellbeing and care - $4,739.05
Thanks to the generosity of our community, every coin tossed and every snag sold made a real difference. Cronulla RSL is proud to support both our veterans and the animals who have served beside them.
→ Manic & Aslan - Retired Military Working Dogs
As much-loved members of the Cronulla RSL family, funds will assist with their day-to-day wellbeing, food and vet care.
These incredible dogs have served alongside our defence personnel, saving lives, detecting threats, and providing loyal companionship in some of the toughest environments imaginable. Cronulla RSL is proud to call retired MWDs Manic and Aslan honorary members of our club, and the funds raised will directly support their ongoing food, medical and veterinary care — ensuring they receive the retirement they deserve. Learn more.
→ Working Paws Australia
Working Paws Australia is a charity that provides retired military working dogs with the resources and care they need as they transition into retirement, right up until their last days. Founded by ex-military working dog handlers Ryan Wilson and Jase Kelly, the charity currently has over 40 registered dogs in their care across Australia. This support includes assisting with medical care (veterinary bills, medications, and rehabilitation), ensuring dogs have a good quality of life (such as food, shelter, and comfortable retirement accommodations) and that they find loving forever homes (including arranging for intermittent care or re-homing if required). Learn more.
→ AWAMO (Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation)
Funds will contribute towards AWAMO's efforts to purchase an animal ambulance to assist in rescue operations in war-affected Ukraine — helping animals impacted by the horrors of war receive critical medical care. AWAMO staff have been working in Ukraine since 2022. They are all unpaid volunteers and have worked to rescue animals and train veterinary students under adverse conditions.
Other work in Ukraine has been the establishment of food stations in inaccessible remote areas for stray animals. The establishment of hygienic facilities at local Ukraine animal shelters, including kennelling, freshwater bores and new generators. The development of animal emergency evacuation management policies for local governments. They have established a canine first aid course at Livi veterinary university where their staff instruct year 3 students.
This project enables students to go out in the field to enhance both there training and provide a valuable asset to the community, as much veterinary help is needed. The appeal and aim are to provide a vehicle(s) for them to achieve this, to gain access to rural and isolated locations to treat animals otherwise unable to get help. Donations will go towards their fundraising campaign to purcahse a vehicle.