ANZAC Service Befitting of Soldiers

A short march to the Clock Tower Memorial from the western car park of the City’s Civic Centre preceded the service, which drew a crowd of more than 350. Flight Lieutenant Andrew Habersberger from the Royal Australian Air Force took the salute and gave a short address. In attendance were RSL WA President Bill Gaynor and wife Joan, along with Mayor Russell Aubrey and wife Glenis. Ex-service organisations, the Red Cross, Air Force Cadets, boy scouts and girl guides groups were also represented. The Town of Victoria Park Brass Band and the Sing from the Heart Choir were also an integral part of the ceremony, having both supported the service for many years.

Mayor Russell Aubrey said the first ANZAC Commemoration Service at the City was held on Sunday, 17 April 1988, as a bicentennial project. It was on this date that the City’s Clock Tower was dedicated as a memorial. “A service has been conducted each year since, on the Sunday before ANZAC Day, by the Applecross Sub-Branch of the RSL with the full support of the City,” he said. “Bunnings Warehouse Melville also kindly supported this event by helping beautify the memorial in readiness for the service. Team leader Judy Sheridan volunteered the assistance of a Bunnings team to repaint and buff the plaques on the clock tower. The team also planted flowers in the garden bed alongside the memorial.”

“I had the honour of laying a wreath at Sunday’s event, while Cr Clive Robartson read the Prayer of Remembrance. I wish to acknowledge the Applecross RSL for again conducting such a successful service, befitting of our brave soldiers. Those who survived, as well as those who did not come back alive, should remain in our hearts and minds always,” he said.

RSL Applecross Sub-Branch President Jim Frawley said the Sub-Branch had conducted ANZAC Day services for more than 70 years, with the march and service held at the RSL hall in Kintail Road, Applecross, prior to the Clock Tower Memorial being dedicated.

“Public support has increased each year and – although the number of veterans marching is decreasing each year – it is heartening to see such continued and growing support from youth groups. The spirit of ANZAC started from the nation’s resolve to honour and commemorate the sacrifice made by servicemen in World War 1 – and now encompasses all who have served Australia in subsequent wars and conflicts. Younger generations have embraced this and, through them, ANZAC Day will continue to be honoured and observed,” he said.