Working with Youth: Debutantes' Ball

Masses group of the debutantes and their partners. Photography by John Houghton

Claire Emberson (President of the National Women’s Section), provides a background on the Auckland District RSA Youth Council.

We have been in operation for the past 34 years. The first people to initiate Youth Council were Brian Sexton – Papakura RSA and the late Harry Barnes – Hornsby RSL (both ex-POWs). The then District President Bill Carmichael was fully supportative of the project as have been his successors. The late Bob Reid, Dave Cox, Colin Topp, the late George Oldfield and Alan Anderson have also been involved. The Reciprocal Tours by our Youth to New South Wales (Australia) are fantastic. The young people now take part in the annual ANZAC March in Sydney. Youth are chosen from their Associations and most are either partly or fully sponsored by those Associations.

Samatha Wilson and Ethan Rowe being presented with their certificate by RNZRSA National President John Campbell. Photography by John Houghton		Alyshia Emberson curtsies to John Campbell and his wife Beth. Photography by John Houghton

The youth are fine Ambassadors for the RSA movement. We have also tried internal tours but billeting is a problem. Perhaps this can be achieved in the future, (and Youth are our future). Another great part of Youth Council is the Debutantes Ball held every four years, with the young ladies being sponsored by their Associations. Cadets from Navy, Army and Air Force Cadet Force units partner them to this prestigious event. The night of the presentation is fantastic. This year they were presented to the RNZRSA National President Mr John Campbell and wife Beth. For all attending it was a wonderfully memorable evening.

Lastly, let me say we have some awesome Youth who we hope will become members of their respective RSAs as they grow and learn more about the special relationship of our associations. We must teach them well.