RAAFA WA

03/02/2026

Gordon Lodge resident Aileen discovered a love of gardening after joining the Garden Club, and her passion has truly flourished. What began with just two plants has grown into a collection of more than 80, all lovingly cared for by Aileen.

With support from staff, she recently held her first Plant Sale, raising $110 to support resources for residents — and she’s already planning the next one. Aileen says gardening has helped her feel happier, healthier and more fulfilled. 🌱

30/01/2026

At our 2025 Annual General Meeting, we were proud to present Clive Robartson with Air Force Association Life Membership.

Clive had served as a Division Council member at RAAFA for more than a decade, and this recognition reflects his dedication, leadership and long-standing contribution to our community. A well-deserved honour.

23/01/2026

Hidden for decades, now proudly on display ✈️

A collection of WWII artefacts — from leather flying helmets and pilot logbooks to RAAF badges and instruments — has been brought out of storage and turned into a stunning new heritage display at RAAFA’s Meadow Springs estate. At its heart sits a cabinet built 25 years ago to commemorate Lancaster pilot Danny Reese, who twice brought his damaged bomber home to save his crew.

Created by a passionate group of residents, staff and volunteers, the display honours the men and women who served, with every item donated by former residents. Now a centrepiece of the estate, it’s a proud reminder of the stories, service and legacy that connect this community.

19/01/2026

Congratulations to all our staff at McNamara Lodge and Alice Ross-King Care Centre on 5, 10 and 15 years of service! Thank you for your dedication and the care you show to our residents each day. 💙

16/01/2026

Residents at McNamara and Alice Ross-King were treated to some very special visitors recently, with friendly farm animals dropping by to brighten the week. From baby goats and fluffy ducklings to sheep, ponies and curious chickens, there were plenty of cuddles and smiles to go around. Something a little out of the ordinary that made the day extra special.

12/01/2026

Leaving a gift to RAAFA in your will is more than a gift — it’s a tribute. A tribute to Western Australia’s proud history, to those who served, and to the generations yet to come. If you've ever considered leaving a gift in your will, RAAFA has partnered with Safewill to offer a discounted online Will-writing service to help you with writing your Will.

Visit https://www.raafawa.org.au/veterans/gift-in-will/ or contact us at bequests@raafawa.org.au or 0892888400 to find out more.

08/01/2026

Merriwa Estate residents Peter White and Noel Cahill were friends and long-time enthusiasts of radio-controlled model planes for years at Merriwa Estate, spending time together flying and building model aircraft.

When Peter could no longer build a beautiful model 1938 Boeing-Stearman PT-17, he gave it to Noel to complete the very complex and detailed assembly. It took over a year, but Noel completed construction of the aircraft, and it looks amazing at Merriwa’s main hall, still in the air as a reminder of Peter and Noel’s great friendship.

05/01/2026

The residents at RAAFA Air Force Memorial Estate are a friendly lot. Listen to resident Ted tell you about an unofficial support group known as 'The Barrel Boys.'

One of our RAAFA Retirement Living residents Ted, tells us about the impromptu support group, nicknamed 'The Barrel Boys' at RAAFA Air Force Memorial Estate,...

01/01/2026

Happy New Year! 🎉

As we kick off 2026, we look forward to another year of continued high-quality care for our community, advocating for our Veterans and preserving stories that should never be forgotten.

Stay tuned for what's to come!

25/12/2025

Merry Christmas from RAAFA! 🎄

Wishing everyone a joyful festive season! May your holidays be merry, your hearts be full, and the new year bring many bright moments to share.

To all our residents, clients, members, volunteers, and staff — thank you for being part of our family! 💙

23/12/2025

Diamond couple Ray and Linda Hinds from Merriwa Estate marked their 60th wedding anniversary this year. From meeting at a rock ‘n’ roll night in the UK to raising a big family here in Perth, they say the secret to a happy marriage is simple: never take each other for granted.

Ray adds, “I’d do it all over again—every bit of it.” ❤

21/12/2025

From serving meals to driving residents to appointments, Merriwa’s volunteers do it all — and at this year’s Volunteer Day lunch, it was their turn to be looked after!

Special recognition went to Bill Wallace, our longest-standing volunteer, who has dedicated 47 years of service to Merriwa. Certificates of appreciation were presented to all, celebrating the generosity and dedication that keep our community thriving.

Thank you to all our volunteers — you make Merriwa a truly special place! 🌟