The Ararat Returned and Services League came together this week to celebrate a memorable 12 months as an organisation.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
General manager Maria Whitford said despite the interruptions in 2020, the RSL achieved a lot.
"At our AGM this week we talked about 2019 and what a successful year it was," she said.
"We undertook 22,300 volunteer hours in the community, continued our community grants program and donated gifts to our local schools."
READ MORE: New COVID-19 case recorded in Ararat
Throughout the pandemic, the RSL maintained its support to veterans and their families.
"We've stayed open to provide assistance to veterans and their families with delivered over 200 health care packs to all veterans early in late March or April.
"We think being open consistently is important for our community, not just to have insurance, but for the wider community to still have somewhere to go.
"(The venue) provides a place for veterans to be able to come and have a chat if they need ... and warm place to come and get a meal at any time of the day.
READ MORE: Stormwater drainage works to commence
"We think it's really important that we send a message that we're not just a hospitality venue, or a welfare organisation."
Ms Whitfield said maintaining operations was just as important to staff too.
"Our staff is also a very important part of our community," she said.
"Being able to stay open and provide work is good for them in the long term.
"In a way, the function of the RSL hasn't changed, but its importance has perhaps heightened."
While you're with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox each Friday morning from The Ararat Advertiser. To make sure you're up-to-date with all the news from across the Ararat shire, sign up here.