Poppy Services

As you prepare to lay your loved one to rest, you are not alone; we are with you. 

Many of our Sub Branches can provide a Poppy Service to complement the funeral of a service man or woman. We consider it an honour and privilege to farewell those who served our country.

“I personally – and others from my Sub Branch – have a great sense of pride in being able to assist in this ceremony for our departed comrades.” – Peter Beauchamp OAM, President, Manly Lota RSL Sub Branch . 

As part of a Poppy Service, an RSL representative will:

  • deliver a eulogy, detailing the veteran’s service
  • recite The Ode
  • sound The Last Post and Rouse
  • provide poppies for mourners to place on the coffin in recognition of service.
“Through the poppy service, a service man or woman does not depart this world on their own. This service commemorates their contribution to the defence and freedom of the Australian nation.” – Neil Finlay, advocate, Greenbank RSL Sub Branch. 
Any person who has served in the Australian Defence Force can be honoured with a Poppy Service. They do not have to have been a member of the RSL.
Poppy Services are provided free of charge. They are one of the ways we honour servicemen and women for their contribution and support you – their family – through this difficult time.
Poppy Services are conducted by our Sub Branch volunteers.

If your loved one was an RSL member, you can talk to their RSL Sub Branch about the possibility of conducting a Poppy Service. If they weren’t a member, or you aren’t sure, contact your nearest RSL Sub Branch to see if they conduct Poppy Services.