While the trenches of France and Belgium are now nothing but scars on the land, the Ballan Red Cross is still going strong following its inception during World War I.
On August 20, the second oldest Red Cross branch in Victoria will celebrate its 110th anniversary by having brunch at the Ballan Mechanic’s Institute – the very site where members of yesteryear used to meet.
Branch chair Anne Eskadale said Red Cross roots run deep in Ballan.
“We even have families who have been part of the branch from grandmothers through to great granddaughters,” she said.
Ms Eskadale, whose aunties were also Red Cross volunteers in the Mallee, said it was an “honour” to be involved in an organisation so steeped in history.
Red Cross Australia was formed in 1914 when war broke out in Europe, raising money for parcels and knitting garments to send to the soldiers.
When the conflict was over, most branches went into abeyance – a temporary pause – but Ballan kept going, sending “oranges and cigarettes” to soldiers in hospital and their families.
These tireless efforts are a big source of pride for both members and locals, said Ms Eskadale.
“Whenever we are out selling tickets people are very grateful for what Red Cross do – it has a good name and we are very proud to work for them,” she said.
“Whenever there is a disaster and you see the [Red Cross] symbol, we always feel the little bit we do brings support to people in emergencies and that’s the main reason we do it.”
Tickets for the 110th anniversary brunch are $20.
Tickets: Call 03 5368 1128
Eddie Russell
