Lesley joined the sub branch in 1983 when women were finally allowed to become members, and has twice served as president since 2003, although she has been involved with the RSL since she was four years old.
Lesley is the daughter of returned services veterans and her father was on the committee until his passing in 1986, and her mother was a life member of the women’s auxiliary.
“In those days the catering for weddings, balls and other functions was done by the women’s auxiliary,” Lesley said.
“For many years there were no babysitters available, so I was taken along to all these functions and the sub branch committee meetings.
“I’d have a blanket down on the floor in the corner; it was always part of my life growing up.”
Lesley joined the navy at 17, where she met and married her husband, Laurie, who was also a naval serviceman.
She joined the women’s auxiliary with her mother until she was able to join the sub branch, then became the first female president of an RSL sub branch in 2003.
Lesley said she was proud to receive the special services award at the last sub branch meeting, recognising more than 40 years of continued service to the RSL and a lifetime of involvement.
“That they honoured me with it was such a surprise, the tears welled up,” she said.
“I’ve loved it so much, just being associated with the sub branch my whole life.
“And I've had some fabulous people working with and helping me on the committee; there's no captain without the crew.”
Lesley has taken a step back in her role at the Corowa RSL sub branch following the deterioration in her husband’s health but is still on the committee and continues to serve the RSL in whatever way she can.
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