About Club Forbes

The Australian Red Cross Society played a vital role in Forbes during World War I, working closely with the RS & SIL on numerous activities. Long-serving members Mrs. E.J. Murphy, MBE, and Mrs. A.A. Sharp contributed significantly, with Mrs. Murphy receiving an MBE in 1960 for her community service.

The Red Cross remained active during World War II, supporting ex-servicemen and their families. Since 1939, the Society has had four presidents, including Mrs. W.J. Green, MBE, who served for 19 years and was honoured with an MBE in 1961 for her exceptional voluntary work. Mrs. G.W. Edmonds took over the presidency in 1966.

The RSL Ladies’ Auxiliary in Forbes was founded on 27 May 1944 under the leadership of Mr. A.E. Clarence, then-President of the Forbes Sub-branch of the RSL. Over the years, the Auxiliary has been instrumental in raising funds, assisting at events, and preparing gifts for hospital patients, with continuous service except for a brief lapse in 1983/84.

Mrs. A.E. Clarence served as the Foundation President, followed by Mrs. K. Hastings in 1945. In 1946, Mrs. G.W. Edmonds was elected and succeeded by Mrs. K. Macintosh in 1947, who served for three years. Mrs. E.J. Murphy became President in 1949 and dedicated 15 years to managing the Auxiliary, earning Queen’s Honours and Life Membership in 1957 for her outstanding service.

Mrs. G.W. Edmonds returned to the presidency in 1964, bringing renewed energy to the role. The RSL acknowledges the exceptional support of both the Auxiliary and the Red Cross Society in assisting its mission. The Forbes Newspaper Co. also played a crucial role in preserving the Auxiliary’s history.

Anzac Day has been a cornerstone of commemoration in Forbes since its first recorded event on 25 April 1918. On that day, returned soldiers gathered at the town hall for an assembly, presided over by Mayor Ald. Bates, with the Red Cross Ladies serving afternoon tea in support of their efforts.

Over the decades, the annual Anzac Day march to the cenotaph has become the highlight of local commemorations. Initially starting at the Commonwealth Bank in Lachlan Street, the route later shifted to the Forbes Services Memorial Club in Templar Street. In 1996, to accommodate the ageing veteran population, the starting point was moved to Cross Street, where it remains today. Following the march, a commemorative service is held at the cenotaph at 11:00 AM.

The Forbes Sub-branch has worked tirelessly to preserve the spirit of Anzac, ensuring its relevance for future generations. Interest in Anzac Day has grown significantly in recent years, with strong participation from younger members of the community. Short ceremonies are also held at the cenotaph on other key dates, including Remembrance Day and Long Tan Day.

To further engage the younger generation, the Sub-branch supports an Anzac Essay Competition, promoted by the State Branch. Local awards are presented to participants, fostering understanding of the sacrifices made by servicemen and women. This initiative, alongside the enduring ceremonies, highlights Forbes’ commitment to honouring the legacy of Anzac Day.

Forbes is home to significant memorials that honour the sacrifices of servicemen and women across generations. Among these, the cenotaph in Victoria Park serves as a focal point for remembrance. Maintained by the Forbes Sub-branch of the RSL, it has undergone numerous enhancements. In 1973, inscriptions were added for the Korean, Malayan, and Vietnam conflicts, with further stonework incorporated in 1990. Four figurines were added in 1999, symbolising the sacrifices of Australian service personnel. The Honour Walls, dedicated by Major General Peter Cosgrove in 2000, provide a lasting tribute to those who served, standing as a symbol of respect and reflection.

The Boer War Memorial is another significant landmark in Forbes. Originally located at the intersection of Lachlan and Templar Streets, it faced safety concerns due to traffic accidents. In 1974, following an agreement between the Forbes Sub-branch and the local council, it was relocated to Victoria Park. The move ensured the preservation of this important piece of history while improving public safety.

These memorials serve as the heart of local commemorative events, including Anzac Day and Remembrance Day ceremonies. Through careful preservation and community dedication, Forbes continues to honour its servicemen and women, ensuring their sacrifices are never forgotten.

The Forbes Sub-branch has supported several clubs under its auspices, contributing to community engagement and recreational opportunities:

• Diggers Trotting Club: Established in 1952, it remains the only trotting club in Australia affiliated with the RSL. Early operations significantly contributed to the Memorial Hall Fund, and the club continues to thrive with Sub-branch support.

• Diggers Race Club: Operated for many years, hosting annual races on the Friday before the Forbes Picnic Races. The club ceased operations in 1969.

• Diggers Swim Club: This seasonal club continues to operate, with its annual trip to Nelson Bay being a highlight.

• Small Bore and Pistol Club: Despite a chequered history, the club has received consistent support from the Sub-branch. Rifles were purchased in 1970 but later sold in 1979 to the Young Police & Citizens Club. The pistol range at Gaymards Quarry, developed in 1973, remains in use.

These clubs reflect the Sub-branch's ongoing commitment to fostering community spirit and supporting diverse activities.

Northcott Neurological Diagnostic Centre

For a number of years in the mid-seventies the Sub-branch supported this institution situated in North Sydney. This centre provided a very useful service not otherwise available to an ex-serviceman/woman. In time, the development of more modern methods rendered the centre obsolete.

CMF

For many years, the Sub-branch agitated for the establishment of a CMF unit in Forbes. In spite of great effort, their representations were not successful.

Hospital Visitation

Hospital visits have been a long-standing tradition of the Forbes Sub-branch, providing comfort to members in need. Initially, these visits included gifts of cigarettes and sweets, though cigarettes were later discontinued in response to changing attitudes. A key contributor to this service was JD (Jack) Murray, who dedicated himself to weekly hospital visits from 1967 until his health prevented him in 2001. With the help of the RSL Ladies’ Auxiliary, the Sub-branch also distributed Christmas gifts to all patients in hospitals and nursing homes annually.

Home Visits

In 1974, Sub-branch member Charlie Morton initiated home visits to sick or confined members. Granted authority to carry out this service on behalf of the Sub-branch, Charlie provided this support at no cost until his own ill health forced him to stop. His dedication left a lasting impact until his passing in 1994.

Supporting Servicemen Overseas

The Sub-branch has consistently supported servicemen and servicewomen deployed overseas, particularly during the Korea (1950–1953) and Vietnam (1962–1973) conflicts. Beginning in 1967, parcels were sent every six months to local servicemen and servicewomen, accompanied by copies of the Forbes Advocate. By 1968, the Sub-branch expanded its support by sending Christmas parcels to all local personnel serving abroad.

Lachlan Legacy

The Forbes Sub-branch and the Services Memorial Club have steadfastly supported Lachlan Legacy, contributing financially and providing essential facilities and services. This partnership ensures ongoing assistance for families of servicemen and women, reflecting the Sub-branch’s deep commitment to community welfare.