The Defence Force Welfare Association (DFWA) announces with sad regret that, after more than 10 years of distinguished and success-laden service as its National President, Colonel David Jamison AM (Retd) has elected to step down from his leadership position with effect Monday 14 August 2017. David can be rightfully proud of his tenure.
Under his watch the Association has not only grown in its effectiveness as a body fully capable of fostering the best interests and welfare of all members of the ADFand their families both during and/or after their period of service but has also been at the forefront of promoting unity within the wider ex-service community. That unity has translated into a firmer, more cohesive and louder veterans’ voice being heard within the corridors of legislative power.
In that regard, David’s drive and vision was instrumental to the formation in 2010 of the Alliance of Defence Service Organisations, now numbering 17 Associations. And more recently, instrumental as well to the formation of an even wider collective of Defence community-focussed bodies, including the RSL and Legacy among others, each of whom have agreed to collaborate in an environment of respect and trust to better promote and protect the well-being of members of the Australian Defence Community.
That Community will undoubtedly use David’s legacy of achievement as a building block to truly work together with a unity of purpose going forward.
Stepping immediately into David’s so-to-speak shoes will be the Association’s Deputy President, Kel Ryan.
He is credited post his Army career also with long years of service to the ex service community. That has included being RSL Queensland’s State Deputy President, President 5 RAR Association, President of the Royal Australian Regiment Queensland Branch, and Vice President DFWA. More about Kel another time! Please extend a welcome to Kel going forward.