By Cr DARRELL TIEMENS
On this most solemn of days, I first want to thank everyone who has worked tirelessly across our Shire to make Anzac Day bigger and better than ever: all the members of the various RSL sub-branches who have planned today’s proceedings for weeks; those marchers from the armed services (veterans, current, and their loved ones); participants from the emergency services (police, firefighters, ambulance, VRA, and SES); service organisations (Lions, Rotary, etc.); schools; scouts; and many others.
I also extend my thanks to all the spectators of the marches and the services across this Shire and to those, including council staff, who have made our Anzac Day routes and venues look so special.
Last week, I attended an Anzac Day dinner at the RSL Club, where the microphone was passed around to anyone who wanted to mention their service or the military service of any family members. I was struck by how many attendees have been personally affected by military service and how many families have lost loved ones.
My own uncle died in an RAAF fighter plane crash in northern NSW, leaving behind a wife and young family. This incident was a constant presence in our family as I grew up.
The same experience has happened across our Shire. It is so important for us to reflect and pause.
I also give a nod to those families and veterans who cannot or choose not to participate in public Anzac Day gatherings. Sometimes it is still too raw, or they simply do not want to be reminded.
We stand with you today as well.
My own grandfather refused to attend any veterans’ events or talk about his experiences as a Burma Railway prisoner for three years.
There are many others out there.
We still pay tribute to you and thank you for your role in keeping our country and our allies safe.
Anzac Day is a day of commemoration, but it is also a day of comfort gained by coming together with members of our wonderful communities.
It is great to see so many young children attending services. It gives me hope for the future of our great nation.
The haunting words of the Ode remind us: “They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old; Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them.”
And we will continue to remember them.
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