By Lucy Waldron
As the nation prepares to honour its military heroes on Anzac Day, veterans from all walks of life convened at the RSL over the weekend for a heartfelt commemoration organised by the Southern Downs Ex-Service Association Inc (SDESA).
The event provided a platform for veterans, including those without organisational affiliations, to come together, share stories, and find camaraderie within their community.
Secretary of SDESA, Rod Brittain, emphasised the importance of celebrating the contributions of veterans to the country.
“We are all veterans in our own right, and that deserves recognition,“ Mr. Brittain said.
Nearly 80 attendees enjoyed a night filled with dinner, music, and engaging conversations, fostering a sense of unity and appreciation for each other’s service.
Making one of her initial public appearances as Mayor Melissa Hamilton extended a warm welcome to the veterans, acknowledging their sacrifices and highlighting the Southern Downs’ rich history of accommodating retired service personnel.
“We value the communities here that support our veterans,“ Mayor Hamilton said,
Mayor Hamilton said she plans to continue to collaborate closely with the veterans’ community, particularly in their endeavours concerning the Leslie Park Cenotaph, and assured continued engagement with the broader community to address their needs.
To gain deeper insights into the veterans’ experiences and foster closer ties, the councillors were invited to participate in SDESA’s weekly morning teas, providing a platform for dialogue and mutual understanding.
In a statement to the media, Mayor Hamilton encouraged community members to attend one of the commemorative Anzac Day services across the Southern Downs.
“We should always remember that if we are to truly honour our veterans, we owe them something more than just gratitude,” she said.
“Just as they stepped up for us, we must step up for them in providing the community support that they need.”
Southern Downs Councillor Joel Richters, himself a former member of the Australian Regular and Reserve Army, reflected on the profound significance of Anzac Day for veterans, noting the enduring legacy of sacrifice and service.
“Regardless of where someone served, whether in peace or conflict, the price of service is great,“ Mr. Richters said.
“Sailors, soldiers, airmen and women for over a century have answered the call to defend our nation and each of them are owed a great debt of gratitude.
“But the reality of war and the sacrifices of service is what will be on their minds as they gather in crowds or stand guard at a cenotaph.”
Find your local service today at rslqld.org/whats-on/anzac-day
