In a weekly ritual, more than 50 group members meet up to socialise at the RSL clubrooms.

Now, on every third Friday of the month, they will be treated to a day trip.

Deakin federal MP Mike Symon announced last Thursday that the club would be given a $7766 slice of federal veteran and community grants to take members on day trips or bring guest speakers and entertainment to the RSL.

This year members have already visited a berry farm and the Sand Sculpting Australia Centre in Frankston.

Co-ordinator Tony Smith says members are thrilled with the funding. "We've put a lot into the club and this has really been a boost to our finances. We're hoping the funding lasts for about three years."

Mr Smith said the group acted as a surrogate family to one another and members were always "keeping an eye out" for each other.

"We're all great friends and we support each other. We work in line with the state veterans affairs department to reduce social isolation that might be experienced by the elderly."

Peggy Toogood, a club member for more than four years, said the camaraderie the group offered was invaluable for members. "We give each other friendship and somebody to talk to," she said. "The social interaction is really important for us. The day trips give us a chance to get out and about and spend a day with each other."