World War II’s end to be commemorated online

SATURDAY, August 15 is Victory in the Pacific Day and the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II.

About 12,000 of the 1 million or so Australians who served in the conflict are still alive today.

Victorian Minister for Veterans Shaun Leane said a number of online resources have been developed to help people mark the anniversary in a meaningful way despite being in lockdown.

“Seventy-five years ago on this day, there was dancing in the streets and mass celebrations in Melbourne to mark the end of World War II. Sadly, the 75th anniversary will look very different.

“While we’re honouring this moment differently to how we’d planned, there are still many ways we can connect with and thank our veterans while staying at home, ensuring we slow the spread of coronavirus and keep each other safe.”

A commemorative broadcast from the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne will be streamed on the day.

National Trust of Australia, Open House Melbourne, and the Centre for Architecture Victoria have also created a digital exhibition, titled WWII at Home: Response, Reflection & Rejuvenation, enabling people to explore 18 sites across Victoria demonstrating World War II’s effect on society.

The state government has also curated a list of ways people can show their appreciation to veterans.

This list along with the digital exhibition can be accessed by heading to vic.gov.au/75th-anniversary-end-world-war-two-wwii.

The commemorative broadcast from the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne will be streamed at 11.20am on the anniversary. It can be viewed by heading to shrine.org.au/75th-anniversary-victory-pacific-vp-day.