A GROUP of former service women are opening their arms to other women in the community who have enlisted.
Women’s Ex-Services Association member and WWII veteran Thelma McCarthy said the call to arms was due to dwindling numbers of members.
“We were discussing if we should discontinue the whole thing but we came to the conclusion that it was a pity if we couldn’t involve women who had served into the services up until now,” Ms McCarthy said.
“We thought it would have been a pity if we couldn’t keep it going with younger women.”
The Women’s Ex-Services meet every second month for a lunch at the Services Club and hope to offer comradeship by providing support and sharing stories.
Ms McCarthy stressed the group was for all women who had served whether they have retired or are in active service now.
“We would like to seek out any women who have served in this area, let them know that we are here and how we would love to welcome them to carry on this legacy,” Ms McCarthy said.
“I see it as handing on the torch as it is a pretty special type of women who chooses that life.
“It is a life of comradeship and discipline so it would nice to see it carried on by younger women.”
Armidale Ex-Services Memorial Club chief executive officer Scott Sullivan said he hoped younger women would step forward and going the association.
“We are a memorial club and this is what we are here for,” Mr Sullivan said.
“So I am very keen to try and resurrect this group so we can pass on the legacy and the history.
“There are women living here who have been on missions and conflicts so they should come forward.
“The club is happy to host them for lunch and it gives them time to talk and share.
“I am really hopeful for some rejuvenation.”
The next lunch will be held on August 2 from 12pm at the Armidale Ex-Services Memorial Club and interested community members should contact Scott Sullivan on 6776 0800.
