Communities unite to remember them

SHIRE residents paid their respects to Australia and New Zealand’s fallen servicepeople and returned veterans during Anzac Day last Sunday.

Acknowledging the sacrifices of defence personnel, members of the public attended remembrance services, marches, breakfasts, and morning teas around the municipality, including Inverleigh RSL-run events in Bannockburn, Teesdale, Shelford, and then Inverleigh.

Inverleigh RSL president Deema Johnston said the public turnout was incredible at the events between 6am and 10am.

“People have been so supportive to the past, present and future servicemen and women of the country,” he said.

“Thank you to the public for attending and supporting all the five services we’ve had today. It’s been very humbling, especially as it’s my first month as president of Inverleigh RSL.”

Piper Iain Coombs played at the services on Sunday morning, filling the foggy, crisp and quiet April air with music.

He also took the time to gratefully and solemnly reflect on his own family members’ service history.

“I lost an uncle that died in New Guinea, who I never got to meet because I was born after the war, and my father always strongly remembered an uncle he had who died in the Gallipoli campaign,” he said.

“Anzac Day is a very personal day for me. I’m grateful that I can contribute, especially with the piping. It’s part of my Scottish heritage, and playing at an occasion like this is a very meaningful and terrific opportunity for me.”

Community member Jack Lenoble attended and participated in multiple services, strongly standing side-by-side representatives of the Bannockburn SES unit.

Mr Lenoble was also mindful of a few patriarchal figures in his life, and someone even closer.

“I’m remembering the fathers and fathers-in-law that served in the Second World War, and great grandfathers of the First World War,” he said.

“My son has passed away, but he was in the Army reserve as well.”

Teesdale attendees including CFA volunteer and Bannockburn Men’s Shed representative Gus Pearl were impressed by the “variety of age groups” who headed to the local monument at 7am, especially children and young people.

“They are the future. These services combine the past, the present and the future,” he said.

A march was held at Inverleigh, before a social event for RSL members. Other Shire commemorations were held at Corindhap, Meredith, Smythesdale, Rokewood and Haddon.