A Gift of Tribute: Cronulla RSL Receives Amber Martin Artwork

Cronulla RSL Memorial Club is proud to have recently received a remarkable and deeply meaningful gift — an official Amber Martin print titled “Tribute”. This powerful piece of art has been donated by Peter and Michelle Green of Laing + Simmons Miranda as a heartfelt thank you for the Club’s ongoing support of the Cronulla RSL Sharks Swimming Club, where Peter serves as Club Captain.

The print was won at a silent auction at the AIF Swimming Championships, donated as a prize through the generosity of returned serviceman Sean DeGelder from Southport. Peter and Michelle won the auction, and chose to present it to Cronulla RSL as a gesture of appreciation.

Created by celebrated military artist Amber Martin, “Tribute” measures 45cm x 64cm and depicts a poignant image of an Australian Waler horse being led by an AIF member. The horse bears a modern combat helmet and a single boot turned backwards in the stirrup — a timeless symbol of remembrance for all Australian Defence Force personnel who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. The original amber print is housed at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra.

Amber Martin herself served in both the Australian Army Reserves and the Australian Regular Army before being medically discharged in 1996. She is best known for her evocative depictions of Sappers from the Royal Australian Engineers, and was officially commissioned as a War Artist with the 2nd Combat Engineer Regiment for nearly a decade. Her works are held in private collections of both the Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) and the 2nd Commando Regiment.

Often referred to as “The Lone Charger” during ceremonial marches, this iconic image resonates deeply with the values of duty, honour, and sacrifice. It will soon be proudly displayed on Level 2 of Cronulla RSL Memorial Club for members and visitors to reflect upon.

Cronulla RSL is honoured to be the new home for such a meaningful tribute, and extends sincere thanks to Peter and Michelle Green for their generous donation and to all who continue to support our Defence community.

Paul Cavanagh (Cronulla RSL Swimming Club Patron, Nathan Whiteside (Cronulla RSL CEO), Peter Green (Cronulla RSL Swimming Club Sharks Swim Captain) & Steve Harper (Cronulla RSL Swimming Club President).