10 April 2025
In the trenches of the Western Front during World War 1, a soldier said to his dying mate: “I’ll look after the missus and kids.”
This became known as The Promise.
Driven by the dire circumstances of many veterans, widows and children left behind, a group of returned servicemen founded Legacy in 1923. The charity provides social, emotional and financial support, vowing to fulfil The Promise and support the families of those who had made the ultimate sacrifice.
On April 4, legatees, soldiers and local government and industry representatives gathered for the biennial North Queensland Legacy Business Breakfast to celebrate the organisation.
Commander 3rd Brigade, Brigadier Ben McLennan, said Legacy was important for a garrison city like Townsville.
“We need Legacy to be as strong as it can be, as strong as we can make it,” Brigadier McLennan said.
“If in the future we have to deploy from Townsville and defend the interests of Australia overseas, organisations such as Legacy will be instrumental in supporting our families.”
One of the speakers was volunteer and newly appointed board member for North Queensland Legacy Maryna Vozniuk.
Ms Vozniuk was born in Ukraine and moved to Australia in 2016, where she now lives with her husband and daughter.
Inspired by the military service of her family members in the Ukraine war, and wanting to give back to the families of serving members, Ms Vozniuk has been a volunteer for three years.
“Legacy helps remind me that behind every service member, there is a family,” Ms Vozniuk said.
“When someone serves in the military, their whole family serves. Legacy is how we, as a community, keep our promise to those families. It’s how we say you are not forgotten, we are here for you.
“What makes Legacy truly special is that it offers not just services for families, but a sense of belonging.
“Legacy is a way to honour the past, support the present, and protect the future of our service families.
“You can support Legacy by volunteering, donating, or simply by spreading the word. Any amount of support, big or small, reminds our Legacy families that they are loved, valued and never forgotten.”
