Premier Colin Barnett and Veterans Minister Joe Francis have paid tribute to outgoing Returned and Services League of Australia (RSL) State president Graham Edwards, whose tenure in the role ends this month.
Opening the RSL's 100th State Conference this morning, Mr Barnett said Mr Edwards had made an outstanding contribution to veterans advocacy and the wider community in general.
"During his time in federal and State parliament, and as RSL State president, he has consistently striven to improve the welfare of veterans and their families," he said.
Mr Francis also acknowledged Mr Edwards' efforts to ensure the RSL was better positioned to meet the demands of its members.
"He has been the driving force behind plans to redevelop ANZAC House into a purpose-built headquarters that will secure the league's future for years to come," he said.
With its motto 'The Price of Liberty is Eternal Vigilance' as relevant as ever, the RSL this year is marking the centenary of its establishment.
Formed by a group of returned servicemen from the Great War, the organisation was originally called the Returned Sailors and Soldiers Imperial League of Australia, before becoming the RSL in 1965.
However, the league's charter has not changed; to support serving and ex-service defence force members and their families.
Fact File
Graham Edwards AM is the 2016 Western Australian Senior Australian of the Year
The RSL has more than 130 sub-branches in WA
This year marks the centenary of the battles of Fromelles and Pozieres
Premier's office - 6552 5000
Veterans Minister's office - 6552 6500
