7 December 2020
Through rain or shine, one charity has supported soldiers through their pain and their glory.
The Sally Man (Salvation Army Red Shield Defence Services) has provided generations of soldiers cordial and biscuits.
This time, Army Headquarters' (AHQ) personnel turned the tables to support the Sally Man by raising money.
Battling Canberra’s unpredictable weather, they participated in the Army Headquarters' 24-hour Charity Challenge at Russell offices, competing against one another in physical activities from December 1-2.
Commissioner of Red Shield Defence Services Brett Gallagher said participants raised more than $2300.
“The donation is far from insignificant and will help us to provide the services that we do for Defence,” he said.
“It has been tough times financially with the current pandemic.
“The money we received is undoubtedly a shot in the arm for the organisation.
“I am very grateful and a happy recipient of the donation.”
The donation is far from insignificant and will help us to provide the services that we do for Defence.
AHQ physical training instructors spearheaded the charity challenge, bunkering down and continuing through storms that threatened to stop the event.
Sergeant Amanda Robbie said the Sally Man was always at Army’s events, no matter the conditions.
“Everyone in the ADF sees firsthand how much the Sally Man helps, whether it be in Australia or overseas. It’s why I think people were so willing to donate,” she said.
“The Sally Man was here supporting last year’s AHQ 24-hour Charity Challenge and we were raising money for a different organisation.
“The Sally Man is at the heart of so much of what Army does, which is why we wanted to try and give back.”
AHQ Platforms won the charity challenge shield and the bragging rights until next year’s event.
“They certainly won the rights to brag, clocking up 836.56km across a variety of exercises,” Sergeant Robbie said.
“This is an event for all levels of fitness.
“We encourage everyone to participate and to help raise money for the great organisations that support Army.”
