Honouring our ANZACs in person again.

With so many veterans residing at RSL LifeCare’s retirement and independent living villages, we are highly attuned to the significance of Anzac Day. This year, unlike last, we were fortunate enough to gather in person and pay tribute to our veterans, many of whom are centenarians; COVID-19 health safety protocols are firmly in place.

The commemorative activities began with the 26th annual Australian War Widows (ACT), Field of Remembrance service held in the lead-up to Anzac Day at RSL LifeCare’s Sir Leslie Morshead Manor Lyneham. After a moving dedication service and Anzac Address by Her Excellency Mrs. Linda Hurley, each widow placed a white wooden cross personalised with a message for their loved one on the field.

Commemorative Services continued with the annual Anzac March and Service on 21st April amidst the backdrop of clear blue skies and sunshine at RSL ANZAC Village, Narrabeen. The procession was led by the Tri-Service Flag Party, followed by the RSL LifeCare Veteran Lancers and the Royal Australian Navy Band Sydney.

Veteran Service attendees formed the march, which led down the hill to the Montgomery Memorial Wall, nestled within RSL ANZAC Village. The Anzac Commemorative service took place with distinguished guests, our veterans, volunteers, relatives, and staff to honour those who have served our Country.

We were also delighted to partner with BridgeClimb Sydney this year and host an Anzac Day Dawn Service atop the Sydney Harbour Bridge. A portion of proceeds from all tickets sold will be donated to support our veteran services. The service, including an Australian Army Bugler, on one of Sydney’s most iconic landmarks, was held as the sun rose over the harbour below.

At dawn on Anzac Day, a further service was held at the Montgomery Memorial Wall at ANZAC Village, Narrabeen. Of special note, Sergeant Grant Hibbins from the 37th Squadron Logistics, RAAF (Royal Australian Air Force) Richmond, gave an address, speaking about the history of the Australian Flying Corps in WW1 and the formation and history of the Royal Australian Air Force.

More than 35 RSL LifeCare sites held commemorative services across NSW and the ACT. The traditional Anzac ceremonial rituals were observed at all the events, such as the laying of wreaths, the traditional bugle playing of the Last Post, the reading of the Ode, the poignant One Minute Silence, and the Rouse/Reveille.

We would like to take this opportunity to say thank you to the distinguished guests, veterans, relatives, and staff who attended and participated in these events. These experiences were a respectful and deeply moving way of honouring the memory of our Anzacs.

Lest we forget.