30-November-2011
Goldstein Media Releases
Christmas is a special time for all Australians and provides most of us with a much-needed opportunity to spend some precious time with family and friends. During the holiday season, it is important to spare a thought for those who will not be with their families this Christmas, like the thousands of Australian troops serving overseas.
To show your support for the troops this Christmas you can send them a care package, free of charge, through Australia Post. Australia Post allows free delivery for packages weighing no more than 2kg (cubed) to our soldiers on the front line.
When sending your parcel don’t forget to include a letter of support to the troops and include a stamped self addressed envelope so they can send a letter back to you. Parcels may be sent to an Australian Soldier, Sailor, Airman or Airwoman. For something different, you may also like to send a care package to one of the Explosive Detection Dogs, but don’t forget to include a treat for the handler. For further information regarding postage details, including items that are permitted to be sent, please contact my electorate office on (03) 9557 4644.
Parcels for troops stationed in the Middle East must be received by Australia Post by Monday 5 December to ensure they arrive before Christmas, and by Friday 9 December for all other overseas posts.
If you would like to assist more locally, there are dozens of organisations assisting those who do not have family nearby or require assistance over the holidays. Lifeline, St Vincent de Paul Society, Salvation Army and Meals on Wheels all offer an invaluable service to the community. These organisations and many more are always looking for a spare pair of hands. The contact details for these organisations may be found at: http://www.volunteeringaustralia.org/.
I urge you to take some time to think of those less fortunate in the community these holidays. Whether you are going away or staying home this Christmas, I wish you and your loved ones a safe holiday and Happy New Year.