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History of the SASR Trust
Australia’s Special Air Service Regiment has a unique and hazardous role within the Australian Defence Force. Tasks undertaken are frequently beyond the range and capability of conventional forces and usually have strategic consequences at the national level. Their constant training in readiness for operational service puts their lives on the line every day.
On the 12th June 1996 during a training exercise outside of Townsville, North Queensland the Blackhawk helicopter tragedy claimed 18 lives and left 11 children without fathers. These children ranged in ages from 2 to 15 years of age. In addition the soldier who had been rendered paraplegic in the accident was the father of 2 small children.
It was for these widows and children and the disabled soldier that prompted a group of concerned WA citizens to get together and work on the formation of the Special Air Service Resources Trust. We wanted to show the SAS Regiment we too shared their loss and wanted to help by providing an additional support mechanism for their families.
The Trust was launched at Government House, Perth by the Governor of Western Australia, Major General Michael Jeffery AC CVO MC on the 4th October 1996. Most of the original Board members are still present at the Board table today. All Board positions are voluntary and the Trustees have been incredibly generous with the donation of their time and professional expertise to the Trust and the SAS Regimental family.
Our Auditors, Ernst & Young too have been there from the beginning of the Trust. Their professional advice has been invaluable to the Trust with our financial records.
The Trustees firmly believe our Trust helps to make a difference to the lives of the members of the SAS Regiment.
Since the Blackhawk tragedy there have been a further 9 deaths in service leaving a further 9 children without a father.
To date the Trust has 21 beneficiaries, 19 children and 2 disabled soldiers.