News

Benalla RSL supports Blue Ribbon Foundation with donation

By Simon Ruppert

Oct 21, 2025

Acting Inspector Mark Byers receives a donation towards the Blue Ribbon Foundation from Benalla RSL president Paul Hartland. Also pictured are Benalla RSL member Len ‘Tree’ Wilhelm and Senior Sergeant Jenni Lamond. Photo: Matt Weaver.

Members of the Benalla RSL sub-branch visited Benalla Police Station on Wednesday, October 15.

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They were there to offer a donation to Victoria Police’s Blue Ribbon Foundation.

RSL president Paul Hartland was joined by member Len ‘Tree’ Wilhelm as they presented the donation to Acting Inspector Mark Byers and Senior Sergeant Jenni Lamond.

“This money comes from the funds that we raise through the year,” Tree said.

“Which is from money we raise and donations from local businesses, which we put back into the community.”

Tree said the Benalla RSL wanted to make a donation to Blue Ribbon following the tragic events in Porepunkah where two police officers were shot dead.

“They (the police) support us,” he said.

“So we wanted to support them. We’re not a big sub-branch, but we like to be part of the community, and do what we can.

“We had a meeting following Police Remembrance Day and, as a committee, we decided to make this donation.”