By Alana Mitchelson
HUSBAND and wife team Garry and Jacqui Manning have run the Poppy Appeal in the lead up to Remembrance Day for the past seven years.
The Berwick volunteers work tirelessly during late October and early November every year to sell the iconic red poppies to raise funds for the annual Poppy Appeal, supporting current and former servicemen and women in need.
Jacqui said her husband was a Vietnam Veteran and always wore his medals while they sold poppies together.
“People are extremely generous and very kind,” she said.
“Over the years people have given us biscuits, brought us lunch … one man even gave us a bottle of wine one year.
“Everyone is very supportive of the appeal.”
Poppies were among the first plants to bloom in the devastated battlefields of France and Belgium.
Since 1921 they have been used in remembrance of those who fell during times of war.
RSL Victoria Appeals Manager Peter Smith said that as a wave of young veterans were finding themselves and their families in need of assistance, it was now as important as ever to donate to the Poppy Appeal.
“The Poppy Appeal is a cause that resonates with all Australians and each and every person who purchases a poppy feels a great sense of pride in wearing it in the lead up to and on Remembrance Day,” Mr Smith said.
“Not only does buying and wearing a poppy show respect for our country’s fallen heroes, but it helps raise vital funds to assist past and present servicemen and women and their dependents in times of need.”
Pakenham sub-branch president Gary Elliot said the Poppy Appeal’s success was owed to the “phenomenal commitment” shown by the members and volunteers.
“Our community continues to come together to support the Poppy Appeal in the lead up to Remembrance Day,” Mr Elliot said.
“It is humbling to see the wave of support and enthusiasm by the locals who support the Poppy Appeal in so many ways.”
The Mannings will be outside Woolworths between 9am and 5pm at Beaconsfield every day (apart from November 4, 5 and 6).
Online donations can be made via www.poppyappeal.com.au
