It is with deep respect that we honour the life and legacy of Colin Wilson OAM, a man whose unwavering dedication, leadership and service left an enduring mark on Windsor RSL Club, the Windsor & District RSL Sub-Branch, and the wider Hawkesbury community.
Col dedicated more than three decades to the Returned and Services League, becoming a Life Member of both Windsor RSL Club and the Windsor & District RSL Sub-Branch. His commitment to veterans and the community was recognised through numerous honours, including the RSL Meritorious Service Medal in 2021 and, most recently, the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours for service to veterans and the community.
Born in the United Kingdom, Col enlisted in the Royal Air Force in 1956 as an apprentice aircraft engineer. During his service, he worked across the United Kingdom, Cyprus, the Middle East, Libya and Kenya before concluding his military career in 1967, having contributed to the Blue Steel Missile Programme. His military service reflected the quiet dedication and sense of duty that would define the rest of his life.
Within Windsor RSL Club, Col’s leadership spanned decades. He served as Treasurer from 1989 to 2009, Vice President for three years, and President from 2009 to 2018, providing wise counsel, sound governance and an unwavering commitment to the Club’s future. His stewardship helped strengthen the organisation while ensuring it remained true to its purpose of supporting veterans, members and the local community.
Beyond the titles he held, Col was admired for his humility, integrity and generosity. He was a mentor, a trusted colleague and a friend to many. His calm presence, thoughtful leadership and willingness to serve without seeking recognition earned him the respect of everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Col’s passing is a profound loss to the Windsor RSL family. His legacy, however, will continue to inspire future generations through the values he embodied—service, respect, loyalty and community.
On behalf of the Board of Directors, Management, Staff and Members of Windsor RSL Club, we extend our sincere condolences to Col’s family and loved ones. We are deeply grateful for his lifetime of service and will remember him with great respect and gratitude.
We honour the life and service of Ross Ryan, a respected veteran, dedicated community contributor, and long-standing member of our organisation. Ross proudly served in the Royal Australian Air Force across two periods — from 1958 to 1964 and again from 1966 to 1980 — completing over two decades of distinguished service to his country. Throughout his RAAF career, he worked as a Supply Supervisor, rising to the rank of Sergeant. His postings included Adult Training Squadron, No. 2 Stores Depot, No. 1 Control & Reporting Unit, Base Squadron Richmond, Base Squadron Darwin, Base Squadron Wagga, No. 2 Aircraft Depot and No. 3 RAAF Hospital. His service was recognised with the Australian Defence Medal, a testament to his dedication and professionalism.
Beyond his military achievements, Ross devoted 35 years as a committed member of the Returned & Services League, where his leadership, integrity and passion for supporting veterans left a meaningful legacy. He served on the Board for an extraordinary 25 years, including 11 years as Vice President, demonstrating unwavering commitment to the values of service and community.
In later life, Ross continued to enrich the Hawkesbury through his work with local organisations including Peppercorn and other community groups, always offering his time, experience and generosity to support those around him. His contribution to the region was significant, heartfelt, and deeply appreciated.
Ross Ryan will be remembered for his service, his spirit of giving, and his lifelong dedication to others.
Pete dedicated an incredible 25 years of service to the Club, working from April 1994 through to April 2024. In recognition of his outstanding contribution, he was awarded Life Membership in August 2024 – a fitting honour for a man who gave so much to our Club and community.
Throughout his time with Windsor RSL, Pete wore many hats. From Cellar and Maintenance to Bus Driver, Beverage Manager, Duty Manager, and even spending time supporting our team at Windsor Golf Club, there seemed to be no role he couldn’t turn his hand to.
What made Pete truly special wasn’t just his knowledge or experience – it was his character. If someone needed help, Pete was there. No fuss, no complaints, just a willingness to lend a hand whenever and wherever he was needed. His dependability was unmatched.
Pete possessed a remarkable knowledge of the Club and its operations. Whether it was a maintenance issue, a cellar question, or advice for a staff member, Pete knew the answer and was always willing to share his wisdom with others. He was an old-fashioned craftsman who took pride in understanding how everything worked and ensuring it worked well.
For many staff, both past and present, Pete was the heart of Windsor RSL. His support, guidance, friendship, and quiet dedication helped shape the Club into what it is today. Behind the scenes, often without recognition, Pete simply kept things running.
His legacy will live on through the countless people he helped, mentored, and supported over the years.