The focus of the sub-branch is very much on the welfare of members, their families, other veterans and widows.

To that end, various members have been in contact with veterans doing it tough at the moment, because of their own ill health or that of their partner. One member's wife is having a lengthy stay in John Hunter Hospital and the travel and separation is obviously adversely affecting him.

The first of the monthly Friday night meat raffles at the Old Bar Tavern, by and for the benefit of the sub-branch, was recently held and members and partners attending had a very enjoyable evening. It is a good income source for the sub-branch and the support of licensee John and staff is very much appreciated.

Veteran's Health Week is coming up, October 24 to November 1, and it is planned to hold some event, depending on COVID restriction prevailing at that time. Similarly, the sub-branch is keen to hold a Remembrance Day commemoration on November 11 and is waiting on advice as to what can be done in relation to COVID restrictions.

Saturday morning meat raffles continue outside Old Bar Gourmet Meats and the ticket sellers would love you to come along and support them. President, Jeff Early, has been garnering support from various local businesses and organisations and the response so far has been generous and heart warming.

Tax Help continues at the Old Bar Community Technology Centre (CTC) but only for a few more weeks.

The program concludes at the end of October so you need to get in soon. Our regular Tax Help volunteer, Belinda May, is providing this service free as in past years.

Appointments are essential and are available on Thursday afternoons and Saturday mornings.

If your income is around $60,000 and is simple, Tax Help may be available for you. To ascertain your eligibility and make an appointment, ring the CTC on 6553 6677 between 10am and 1pm weekdays or 10am and noon Saturdays. Or call in at the CTC at 5/45 Old Bar Road next to Old Bar Take-away and pick up your information form.

A second weekend was recently spent collecting the bush rock for the memorial wall at the Old Bar Soldiers' Memorial Hall.

Volunteers from the hall committee, the community and RSL Sub-branch members made two trips to Kimbriki and at this stage, the judgement is that there may be enough rock collected to complete the project, however, more will be collected if needed.

Member for Myall Lakes, Stephen Bromhead has indicated that he will inspect the hall roof, which is in need of replacement. It is hoped that this will lead to a grant to allow the work to proceed.

Members of the Old Bar RFS made themselves available last Saturday, opening the shed and displaying their trucks and equipment for the public to come along and receive information about preparing for the coming bush fire season.

The event was conducted under COVID Safe restrictions and it is hoped that they can have an open day later. Children took a particular interest in the vehicles.

Eyes down 11am with a lunch break and finish around 2pm. Bingo is run voluntarily by the Old Bar lady bowlers, so come along and enjoy socialising, meeting friends, making new ones and having fun. Players from anywhere welcome; come for a nice trip to lovely Old Bar.

Don't forget your daubers.

For information, phone Margaret on 6557 4328.