VHA Blog
A Holiday Message from Our CEO: Warm Wishes to Veterans, Staff, and Board Members
As we approach the festive season, I want to extend our warmest wishes to each of you. This time of year, is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the past, cherish the present, and look forward to the future. VHA also recognise that this time of year is a lonely
Honouring the Fallen: Remembrance Day Traditions Around the World
For more than 100 years now, November 11th has been a day of reflection and recognition as countries all over the world honour the millions of people who have served in the armed forces. The Origins of Remembrance Day Remembrance Day’s origins lie with the United Kingdom’s King George V.
The saint that brought romance to the soldiers
It wouldn’t be February without the flurry of Valentine’s Day promotions all around us. But amidst the romantic cards, the hearts, the flowers and the chocolates, Valentine’s Day has a story all its own, with a surprising connection to veterans. As the years pass, and we get more distracted by
Easy Summer Salads that cover the 5 food groups
Salads are a perfect meal for warm summer evenings; easy to prepare and they do not require you to stand for long periods of time in a hot kitchen. Unfortunately, though, salads have been given a bit of a bad rap because of their association with diets (think plain garden
The Power of Purpose: Find Joy and Meaning Post-Service
Leaving the military isn’t just a career change; it’s a significant life shift. The structure, identity, and camaraderie that shaped your daily life are suddenly gone, leaving a void many veterans struggle to fill. But here’s the truth: your next chapter can be just as meaningful, if not more so.
January 26th – a time for reflection
January 26th holds vastly different meanings for many across the population. Dating back to the early 1800s, its original public holiday was officially created by then Governor of New South Wales Lachlan Macquarie, for the 30th anniversary of Europeans arriving in Sydney Cove and ‘formerly founding’ that colony. Other states
The Last Post Explained: A Moving Tradition for Veterans on ANZAC Day
Anzac Day is upon us once more – the hot cross buns disappear from supermarket shelves and card tables are unfolded on street corners to sell commemorative pins and poppies. Medals are polished, suits pressed, and Anzac biscuit recipes dug out in anticipation of parades, services, and remembrance times across
Laila’s Sweet Christmas Legacy
For Noble Park resident Laila, Christmas is more than a season—it’s a time for love, family, and the joy of baking. Every year, her kitchen comes alive with the scent of her mother’s cherished 4-ingredient cookie recipe: a timeless blend of butter, sugar, cornflour, and vanilla. This treasured recipe has
The Importance of Men’s Mental Health in the Veteran Community
Every year, the month of June recognises Men’s Health, with a dedicated week focusing on a specific topic of importance. This year Men’s Health Week is Monday 10th to Sunday 16th of June and the focus is on Men’s Health Checks – from blood pressure and heart health to diabetes,