11 October 2026 marks the 25th anniversary of the Australian Defence Force’s deployment to Afghanistan and Iraq. More than 35,000 Australians served in the Middle East Area of Operations as part of the War in Afghanistan (2001 to 2021), and 17,000 in the Iraq War (2005-2009). 52 Australians lost their lives in those conflicts: 47 in Afghanistan and 5 in Iraq. The War in Afghanistan was Australia’s longest conflict overseas.
To commemorate the 25 years, the Bellinger River RSL is hosting a “Back To The Chora Valley” weekend of camping and activities for local MEAO veterans and their families during 16-18 October. The weekend is a free “no-fuss” affair for like-minded veterans to gather together. It will be held on private property next to the Bellinger River at Bellingen, with bring-your-own camping gear/caravan, food, water & chairs. There will be portaloos and a BBQ spit on Saturday night, other than that you’ll need to be self-sufficient. There will be a bonfire BBQ, and the opportunity for veterans to tell their stories and hear the stories of others. On Saturday there will be family-friendly activities, and there is easy access to the river for swimming, fishing and canoeing. There will be a simple dawn service on Sunday morning to remember comrades who are no longer with us.
Please join us for a weekend of relaxation and yarning with fellow veterans and families. Attendance is free, and open to all members of the veteran community whether you’re with the RSL or not, but numbers are limited to 30 campsites. Use the QR code to book your free tickets. Any queries please contact bellinger-riversb@rslnsw.org.au.
