Supporting 100 years of Legacy

When the Legacy Centenary Torch Relay began in Pozieres, France in April, Leading Aircraftwoman Sarah Negrin was humbled to know she would be continuing the torch’s run over 16,000km away in Ipswich, Queensland.

CAPTION: Legacy Centenary Torch Relay Bearer Nicholas Paske (centre) with Air Force personnel (L-R) Leading Aircraftwoman Sarah Negrin, Warrant Officer Scott Biddell, Flight Lieutenant Brett Smith and Flight Sergeant Shawn Spry in front of a C-27J Spartan at RAAF Base Amberley, Queensland. Story by Flight Lieutenant Greg Hinks. Photo by Leading Aircraftwoman Taylor Anderson.

Leading Aircraftwoman Negrin from 33 Squadron, RAAF Base Amberley, didn’t hesitate to volunteer to take part in the relay after downloading the tracking app on hearing about the event at this year’s Anzac Day service.

“I jumped at the chance to take part because, whilst viewing the relay would have been amazing in itself, actually having an opportunity to participate in uniform is pretty special and historical,” Leading Aircraftwoman Negrin said.

“Helping, mateship and teamwork is so ingrained in the Australian Defence Force and providing assistance to the families shows recognition and appreciation of what they have also had to endure.”

Escorting the Legacy Centenary torch will be an emotional experience for Flight Lieutentant Brett Smith from 82 Wing, RAAF Base Amberley, having seen the work of Legacy Australia first- hand.

“I became aware of Legacy early in my service and over the years, some of my friends, who’ve lost loved ones, now receive Legacy support to varying degrees,” Flight Lieutentant Smith said.

“There are plenty of organisations that work with veterans, but Legacy exists to take care of the ones we love the most after we’re gone.

“I would hope, were the worst to happen to me, that my family can rely on Legacy’s support.”

The Legacy Flame will be carried by more than 1500 torchbearers and pass through 55 geographic locations over six months. The trip has already included Brisbane, Ipswich and a special ceremony attended by King Charles III in London, England, the location of the only Legacy Club outside of Australia.

The Legacy Centenary Torch Relay will travel through Australia, concluding in Melbourne in November.

To follow the relay, go to https://www.defence.gov.au/news-events/news/2023-06-19/www.legacytorchrelay.com.au.

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