General News
8 October, 2026
Charity gala dinner to thank Diggers for their service
DOUG Baird, the father of Afghanistan war hero Corporal Camerion Board, will be the guest speaker at the Cairns RSL Sub Branch’s seventh annual ‘Thank you for your service’ gala dinner later this month.
Corporal Baird (right) was an Australian Army commando, who was awarded the Victoria Cross for Australia posthumously following his service in Afghanistan.
He was killed in operations in Afghanistan on 22 June 2013 saving the lives of his fellow soldiers.
The evening will also feature the Royal Australian Navy Band, adding to what promises to be a memorable night celebrating the Defence and veteran community.
The dinner is on Saturday 31 October from 6pm at the Cairns Convention Centre.
Sub branch president Nathan Shingles said the gala was an important opportunity for the wider community to come together and show its support for local veterans and their families.
“Every veteran has a story – a story of service, sacrifice, resilience and commitment to our nation,” he said.
“For many, that service continues long after they leave the Defence Force.
“The gala is about bringing our community together to say thank you, recognise that service and remind our veterans and their families that they are not forgotten.”
The sub branch provides ongoing support to local veterans and their families through advocacy, welfare and wellbeing assistance, emergency support, social connection, hospital and nursing home visits, food and household assistance and other programs designed to help veterans when they need it most.
The dinner also provides an important opportunity to raise funds to continue this work throughout the year.
Guests will enjoy a three-course meal, four-hour drinks package and entertainment, with tickets available for $199 per person. Businesses and organisations are also encouraged to support the event, with tables of 10 available for $1990.
To buy tickets go to www.cnslocal.s.gy/gcj2os
