Nasho Fair Go, Australia’s only nationwide association representing servicemen conscripted between 1965 and 1972 has commenced a major membership drive to ensure Nashos have access to all the support they need in their senior years.
Established in 2022, mateship, camaraderie and reuniting old friends is at the centre of Nasho Fair Go which also advocates on behalf of more than 30,000 remaining “Nasho” veterans to help secure better recognition, compensation, medical care and health outcomes.
National servicemen or “Nashos” most of whom were 20 years old at the time, boosted the Australian Army by around 30% during the 1960s-70s at the time of the Vietnam War.
Conscripted through a lottery system and compelled to serve for two years, 63,000 young Australian men faced jail if they refused.
“For many of us despite the passage of time, it hasn’t been easy to come to grips with this seismic disruption in our young lives,” said Mr Geoff Parkes, founder and President, Nasho Fair Go.
“Now, we are all aged between 74 and 81 and as the years close in, we are really seeing how important it is to have meaningful and genuine social connection.
“It’s never been more valuable and just like our training days five decades ago, we have an obligation to help and look after each other.”
The membership drive “5000 by FIVE” is seeking to secure five thousand members by the 5th anniversary of Nasho Fair Go in February 2027.
With current numbers just shy of 4000, it’s a target that is certainly achievable and importantly, membership is open not just to Nashos but to their families and friends.
“Our numbers may be slowly dwindling but our networks, the families, children, partners are all part of our community,” said Mr Parkes.
“They have a unique understanding of what Nashos went through and just like any community, we are stronger and better together.”
Details on how to join are in the QR code below or via the Nasho Fair Go website at https://nashofairgo.com.au/
MEDIA CONTACT:
Georgina McGuinness
Media Relations, Nasho Fair Go
0488 247 777
