CLUBS ENSURE INVICTUS GAMES A SUCCESS

The eyes of the world have been on Sydney in the past week thanks to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex and the Invictus Games.

The games were founded by Prince Harry in 2014, and is the only international sporting event for wounded, injured and sick servicemen and women, using the power of sport to help in their rehabilitation and reintegration.

As a Founding Partner, ClubsNSW and its member clubs have made a significant financial contribution to the Games, as well as providing in-kind support. The in-kind support covers everything from ticket sales to volunteer assistance and hospitality – both in the lead-up to and during the event. Clubs are also providing hospitality for the one-thousand-plus family and friends embarking on this journey with the athletes.

The Invictus Games support rehabilitation and generate a wider understanding and respect for defence personnel who are striving to overcome physical and emotional challenges. The Games provides a unique opportunity for Clubs and communities to recognise the service and sacrifices of Defence Force personnel and veterans, as well as inspiring and assisting others in the community facing similar challenges.

The success of the Games has been very dependent on the support and participation of the 37 Invictus Partner Clubs and their contributions have included:

• $1.5M in cash and value-in-kind
• The provision of facilities in support of training and functions spaces to the Invictus Games organising team
• Sponsorship and support for members of the Australian Invictus Games team
• Bus sponsorship to enable school children from 5 schools to travel and see the Games
• Numerous community engagement events spreading the games key messages and raising additional funds

All of these contributions have ensured that ClubsNSW has over-delivered in its commitment to make the Invictus Games a success.

ClubsNSW CEO Anthony Ball said the major sponsorship follows on from the role the registered clubs industry plays every day in supporting the welfare of veterans.

“Registered clubs – and in particular our RSL and Services Clubs – have been looking after the welfare of Australia’s veteran community for more than a century now so this partnership is a natural fit.

“The Invictus Games raises awareness of the issues veterans face when returning from conflicts abroad, and that’s a cause we’re extremely proud to support,” said ClubsNSW CEO Anthony Ball.

“These servicemen and women are truly inspiring. They battle every day to turn adversity into opportunity. We’re excited to be able to provide this significant support to help make the Invictus Games in Sydney the most successful one yet.”

 

HOW A PARTNER CLUB BECAME INVOLVED – CASTLE HILL RSL STORY

One of those Invictus Partner Clubs is Castle Hill RSL. Seeking to educate and engage with Club members and the broader community on what Invictus Games is all about, Castle Hill RSL Group delivered various activities and events across their education, veteran and sporting programs and corporate partners.

“It is both an honour and privilege to be able to show our support for our fellow service personnel and veterans.  For almost 45 years, Castle Hill RSL Group has supported those who have served, or are serving, our country.  Invictus Games Sydney 2018 is a wonderful opportunity to show our respect and appreciation for the strength and determination of our wounded warriors, and I encourage the Hills community to go to the games and show their support,” said Mr Warren Glenny, President of Castle Hill RSL Group.

The Castle Hill RSL Group has provided over $50,000 in cash donations and in-kind support to Invictus Games Sydney 2018, including educational opportunities with local schools, tours, golf days, kids sports challenges, and meet and greets with athletes and ambassadors.

  

Parramatta RSL Team (part of the Castle Hill Group) hosted of a special Welcome Reception for the Danish Invictus Games Team

In addition to the education and engagement with the larger Hills community, Castle Hill RSL Group’s involvement paved the way for a long-term impact on the defence community by supporting programs and services across various sectors of the community to encourage greater collaboration, cooperation and support for the veteran.

This powerful presentation from Curtis McGrath, Invictus Games Ambassador, sums up what the Invictus Games are all about.