Mick Bainbridge is a member of the Gerringong RSL sub-branch and is near completion of a Law and Commerce degree at Wollongong University. Whilst studying, Mick volunteers for a local law firm assisting in the pro-bono representation of Veteran, and ex-service persons, in both Veteran Affairs entitlements and criminal cases. Mick and his wife Brooke live in the Illawarra with their son Mason, aged 18 months, and have another child the way, due in 2017.

Mick joined the Australian Army in 2002 after completing year 12. Following basic training with 1 Commando Company as a full-time reservist, he completed his Special Forces selection course and began his Commando reinforcement cycle in 2004 with the 4th Royal Australian Regiment Commando (now 2nd Commando Regiment). Whilst serving in the 2nd Commando Regiment, Mick earned his Green Beret and worked in combat roles as an assaulter and a mortar-man. Other operational roles included working within Australia's premier Federal domestic counter-terrorism team (TAG-East) and conducting close personal protection for high ranking Defence officials and members of Parliament. Mick has served on one tour of East Timor and four tours of Afghanistan.

Mick has a strong sense of compassion toward our injured returned service persons, their care and pathway to rehabilitation. He is also heavily vested in creating business opportunities for all of Australia's intergenerational veterans and their families. As a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, Mick is also enrolled to complete the full director's course in 2016.

He intends to bring to the Board a fresh perspective that recognises the need for intergenerational veteran and serviceperson acceptance. With his commitment, integrity and ability, he hopes to ensure the existence of the RSL for the next hundred years.