Baan Baa’s strong sense of community spirit was on full display on November 11 as locals gathered for the village’s inaugural Remembrance Day service.
Residents of the tight-knit and much-loved village have always been there for one another, and Tuesday was no different, offering each other support and kindness as they united in Remembrance and grief.
The occasion was marked not only by the traditional commemoration of those lost in conflict and tributes to the brave men and women who have served our country and made sacrifices, but also by collective mourning for the accidental death of Lilly Chifor, whose memory added a deeply personal dimension to the proceedings.
Prior to the commencement of the Remembrance Day commemoration, a minute’s silence was held in honour of Lilly, who sadly died in a tragic accident that occurred on Friday.
The president of the Boggabri RSL Sub-branch, Steve Eather, said it was a request from the village’s blossoming and proactive new pre-school to hold a service in Baan Baa. He took the request to a meeting of the Boggabri sub-branch, and they happily agreed.
Baan Baa might be small population-wise, but its proud residents always rally to host community events, services and occasions. The village hosts a very large gathering for the dawn service on Anzac Day, so the inclusion of the preschool children served as a poignant reminder that Remembrance is a legacy handed down, and that even the youngest members of the community are part of this tradition.
The ceremony was led by Mr Eather with Narrabri Shire mayor Darrell Tiemens reading a prayer for the fallen.
Mr Eather laid the first wreath on behalf of the Boggabri RSL Sub-branch, followed by Cr Tiemens on behalf of the Narrabri Shire Council, Chaplain Noel Williams from the Rural Fire Service and Outback Bush Chaplin, on behalf of the Rural Fire Service, Amelia Charters and Alice Evans on behalf of Ooranga Preschool, Brenda Stewart on behalf of the Stewart families, and Noreen Boehm in memory of her great uncle killed in action in 1917 and her uncle killed in action 1940.
Following the formal proceedings, attendees were invited to enjoy morning tea in the Baan Baa Hall. This provided an opportunity for neighbours and friends to come together, share memories, and support one another in their grief. Many took the time to view the honour boards and the art and craft display, both of which highlighted the community’s ongoing commitment to remembrance and creativity.
