* 12 May 2025 *

In early May, we welcomed Defence Health CEO David Brajkovic, Deputy CEO Tanya Haines, and members of their team to the V Centre in Ivanhoe, for the official announcement of our new Partnership.

The visitors from Defence Health are welcomed by Senior Executive Officer, Tamara Paton in The Commons.

Like Vasey RSL Care, Defence Health is a not-for-profit organisation, and since 1953, they have been following their purpose, to protect the health of those who protect our country. This care extends to current and past service personnel as well as their families.

A major part of the partnership is Defence Health’s sponsorship of an apartment at the V Centre for six months.

“Defence Health is thrilled to be partnering with Vasey RSL Care and contribute where we can,” says Defence Health CEO, David. “Our purpose is ‘To protect the health of those who protect our country.’ We see this partnership as an example of our commitment to that purpose, and doing it alongside great organisations like Vasey RSL Care is a real privilege.”

The visit began with a tour of the V Centre, and thanks to beautiful weather, David and Tanya joined Vasey RSL Care Chair Mike O’Meara OAM, and V Centre participant Damon, in planting rosemary outside in the reflection courtyard – rosemary being a symbol of remembrance of all our servicemen and women.

Another aspect of the partnership is volunteering, and on ANZAC Day, we welcomed 15 Defence Health staff who volunteered their time at Vasey RSL Care Brighton East aged care home for our commemorative service.

Executive General Manager – Veteran Services, Chris Gray leads the tour, pictured visiting one of the sixteen apartments with David and Tanya.

Their support was greatly appreciated by residents and staff.

We are looking forward to having more Defence Health volunteers support clean-up days at our two largest Ex-Service Accommodation sites over the coming months.

“It was lovely to meet David, Tanya, Serena, Vanessa, Donna, Clare and Steve,” says Tamara Paton, Senior Executive Officer. “Defence Health’s support for the veterans at the V Centre is very meaningful to their community − as it is to ours. We appreciate their support, interest and involvement in what we are doing here at the V Centre and we look forward to a partnership that brings positives to all.”

David Brajkovic receives a certificate of appreciation from Tamara Paton.

Planting rosemary are, from left, Damon, V Centre participant, Mike O’Meara OAM, Vasey RSL Care Board Chair, David Brajkovic, CEO Defence Health and Tanya Haines, Deputy CEO Defence Health.

The Defence Health Group visit the V Centre gym.