50 years of Rotary holidays for wounded service personnel.

In 1965 following Australia's involvement in the Vietnam War, the Rotary Club of Surfers Paradise established the Wounded Servicemen's Scheme.  The scheme was started by Rotarian Griff McKay, ably assisted by ex-servicemen Ken Bromley and Charles Smith.  At that time the the scheme was confined to Australian soldiers receiving treatment at the Yeronga Military Hospital.  Ken Bromley, an ex-Naval officer took over the chairmanship in 1971 and was honored with an M.B.E. for his dedication to the cause. Between 1965 and 1973, a total of 1496 servicemen enjoyed rehabilitation on the Gold Coast.

The scheme has been continued by the Rotary Club of Surfers Paradise Central and then the Rotary Club of Gold Coast through the Ken Bromley Memorial Wounded Service Personnel Convalescent Association, whereby wounded service personnel accompanied by nominated family members receive a fully paid 5 star holiday on the Gold Coast from anywhere in Australia.  Service personnel who have served in many overseas areas of conflict have benefited from this program.  At one stage even British service personnel wounded in the Falklands conflict enjoyed Gold Coast holidays.

Come and join us on 26 November at the di Vito Waterfront Restaurant to celebrate this milestone.  Bookings essential.