SELLING the sound of silence might be one of the greatest challenges in the history of fundraising.
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But it is exactly what Wimmera RSL organisations will do this year as part of a national push to raise money before Anzac Day.
More than 80 veterans from the Second World War, the Korean War, the Vietnam War and more recent conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq have recorded the minute of silence.
People can call or send an SMS to a number to be provided with a recording featuring the voice of Second World War prisoner of war Jack Bell.
Horsham RSL president John Brondsema said he was not sure whether the sales would be as high in rural areas because of the various services across the Wimmera.
“It’s a minute’s silence and then they play the Last Post and the Reveille,” he said.
“It is something unique and would be helpful for people who could not make a service.”
It costs $2.26, of which most is donated to providing services for returned servicemen and servicewomen.
Horsham RSL senior vice-president David Eltringham said the recording was a valuable new way to raise money for the RSL.
Afghanistan veteran, ex-commando and double amputee Damien Thomlinson said the minute of silence would enable anyone with access to a phone to support the appeal.
An RSL spokeswoman said people could buy a minute of silence by calling 1902 250 414 or by sending an SMS with the words ‘silence’ and ‘Victoria’ to 1999 1234.
The offer is available until April 25.