Helping is par for the course

Louisa Rust

When Port Kembla resident Mona Parsons lost her husband of 51 years, John Parsons, a WWII veteran, she knew Legacy would be there to offer help if she needed it.

The couple were married in 1945, after Mr Parsons’ lucky escape from the HMAS Sydney, disembarking before its final fatal voyage in 1941.

While Mrs Parsons has not had to ask for any help from Legacy since her husband passed away, she appreciates the work the organisation does for veterans’ families.

“I’m a war widow and have been for nearly 11 years, but I haven’t had much to do with legacy because I have the support of my family,” she said “But I know if I ever need them they will be there.”

Legacy Wollongong & South Coast is calling on keen golfers to sign up and support its annual Charity Golf Day on Friday, May 2, at Kembla Grange Golf Club.

The golf day is one of the charity’s major fundraisers that helps over 1300 widows and dependants enrolled from Helensburgh to Gerringong.

David Williams, chair of the Legacy Support Group said his family had been assisted by Legacy over the years through their tireless efforts in meeting the needs of war widows and their children.

“It’s time we recognised the great work of this institution and support them in developing future services, facilities and funding.

“The golf day is a great start, particularly in raising the awareness of Legacy and the great work they do. I encourage as many businesses as possible to support the day.”

Legacy was established in 1923 by ex-servicemen dedicated to the task of caring for the widows and dependants of their comrades. The organisation receives no Government funding and is dependent on public and corporate donations.

Entry for the Legacy Golf Day is $50 per person and includes breakfast, lunch and green fees. A shotgun start at 7am is preceded by breakfast from 6am at the Club House.

To register, email wglegacy@bigpond.net.au or contact Legacy House any weekday from 9am to 3pm on 4229 1821.