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Australian Defence Apparel camouflage is a common sight on Aussie troops, but now the defence manufacturer has partnered with Legacy Australia to supply 1,500 uniforms for The 2023 Legacy Centenary Torch Relay.
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The torch relay, presented by Defence Health, starts in Pozieres, France on 23 April this year and travels 55,000 kilometres around the world in the arms of 1,500 torchbearers. It also carries special significance as the 100th year of Legacy Australia.
The relay leaves France on Anzac Day and treks to London, then Perth, and around Australia passing through more than 112 locations before arriving at the finish in Melbourne for the Centenary Conference around 13 October.
The six-month event stops at all 45 Legacy Clubs and aims to raise more than $10 million to support the families of Australian Defence Force men and women who lost their lives or health in conflict.
Australian Defence Apparel (ADA) lead designer Melinda Suares, who created and put the 1,500 torchbearer uniforms into production, said initial design concepts and meetings had been worked on for around five months before the final product was made.
“The key element of the design was showcased through a sublimated print. The centenary torch logo was an essential part of this uniform design, incorporating the red and blue hues from the logo,” she said.
“The design is then complimented with intertwining strips that emerge upon the legacy logo on the chest.
“The light green and blue stripes form two helping hands, which touch the end of the torch relay logo. This represents (the) unity and harmonious help both Legacy and Defence Health do to support veterans and their families with stability, guidance and care.
“It was about capturing the true essence of Legacy and what the foundation was all about. Understanding the meaning behind the 100-year centenary torch relay was important in the initial design concept stage.”
ADA chose a validated fit for the t-shirts, shorts, and trackpants and worked with Perfect Events to make minor changes and cater to the people who would be wearing it, she said.
The Australian defence manufacturer will also be contributing to the event at various community days, profiling individual torch bearers, manufacturing bespoke products to support the relay and hosting a Bendigo Factory tour with Legacy volunteers.
Legacy Australia chairman Eric Easterbrook OAM, said the relay is a wonderful opportunity to commemorate 100 years of Legacy supporting veterans’ families.
“Legacy’s centenary is an important commemoration for our nation. It recognises the sacrifice of so many families over the past century as well as the efforts of countless volunteers who have supported them throughout grief and hardship,” he said.
“Their support will help Legacy remain strong for another 100 years and continue to support and empower all our veterans’ families to build their best future.”
