Teesdale remembers the fallen

HUNDREDS of Teesdale community members attended the town’s early-morning Anzac Day service earlier in the week to remember and honour Australia and New Zealand’s fallen defence force personnel.

Led by Inverleigh RSL, the short ceremony included a reflection from the club’s president Deema Johnston, The Last Post from Marcus Oldham College’s Lachlan Gardner, and sounds of the bagpipes from Iain Coombs, the great nephew of a soldier who died in the Gallipoli campaign.

“This day, we remember the dedication and selfless nature of the first Anzacs when they landed on Gallipoli, now called Anzac Cove,” Mr Johnston said.

“They joined to serve the king, country, for adventure, or to uphold democracy, and not allow other countries to take theirs by force. During the battles of the Gallipoli Peninsula, legends of the Anzacs were born, and many legends were made.

“Going forward, the Anzacs forged an everlasting bond of brotherhood and mutual respect. We also earnt the respect of our enemies… throughout all conflicts.”

Wreaths were laid by Golden Plains Shire mayor Cr Gavin Gamble, and representatives of Inverleigh RSL, Inverleigh Leigh Valley Lions Club, Teesdale CFA, Teesdale Primary School, and Federal Member for Ballarat, Catherine King.

Teesdale CFA captain Rob Galtry laid their floral tribute, and said the brigade is proud to be involved each year.

“It’s all about service to the community and keeping people safe,” he said.

Mr Johnston acknowledged Australia’s involvement in all theatres of war, including those who continue to serve and protect the country today.

Running multiple services and events throughout the morning, including in Bannockburn, Shelford and Inverleigh, he was pleased to see such a strong turnout.

“In Teesdale the attendance has grown this year. Celebrating and acknowledging the day for past and current servicemen is a huge thing,” he said.

“In Veterans’ Affairs, over 60,000 claims are still to be processed from operational… wounds and injuries. It’s an incredibly important time.

“We thank the community for supporting us. If it wasn’t for them, we wouldn’t be able to run a service.”