Isabella Bates will be one of the youngest Official Legacy Centenary Torch Bearers.
One of the youngest Khaki Vehicle Enthusiasts Isabella Bates is on a quest to honour the memory of her great-great uncle Private William Hood, a member of the 2nd 7th infantry battalion who was killed in action in New Guinea in 1943.
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This isn't just any ordinary quest - Isabella will be one of the youngest Official Legacy Centenary Torch Bearers, carrying the torch in honour of Legacy's 100 years of service to the families of Australian Defence Force members.
Established in Melbourne in 1923, Legacy is an organisation that grew from the ashes of World War One, supporting the families of those who gave their life or health for Australia. It was a promise from a soldier to his dying mate to "look after the missus and the kids"; one that has been revered since the first Legacy Club was established by Sir Stanley Savige. Today, Legacy looks after more than 40,000 families.
Commemorating 100 years of service, the Legacy Centenary Torch Relay will cover a distance of 50,000km across the globe, with 1500 Torch Bearers participating in the relay.
As a Legacy torch bearer, Isabella will travel from her hometown of Malmsbury to Ballarat on September 19 to be part of the relay.
KVE member Isabella Bates, pictured with the family ‘s 1942 Ford Jeep proudly raising money for Legacy last Thursday in Corowa.
At last week’s military vehicle gathering, Isabella raised over $1000 for Legacy and received the Encouragement Award for her enthusiasm and interest.
“We are very proud to have Isabella Bates as a member of KVE,” secretary Jan Thompson said.
Isabella has been attending the Khaki Vehicle Enthusiast (KVE) Corowa Swim In since 2012. She has had a unique upbringing thanks to her father's passion for military vehicles and war history.
“It’s an honour to be a Legacy Centenary Torch Bearer,” she proudly told the Free Press.
The Legacy Centenary Torch Relay begins on ANZAC Day, April 25, in Pozieres, France. It will then travel to London, England before making its way to Australia.
To donate to Isabella’s fundraiser, visit www.legsforlegacy.com.au/fundraisers/IsabellaBates/torch-bearers-2023.
