This year Anzac Day commemorative services on the Western Downs have again been driven by the dedicated people power of local RSL sub-branches and community groups. Western Downs

Regional Council Mayor Paul McVeigh said this year’s commemorative service is a chance to acknowledge those who tirelessly keep the ANZAC spirit alive. “To see the Tara RSL Sub Branch back up and running again is fantastic for the community. It’s a grass-roots effort for an important cause,” he said. Mayor McVeigh gave special mention to the Miles RSL Sub Branch who not only assist with the Miles Dawn and Commemoration Service, but also attend and support the Dulacca Commemoration Service. “This show of community spirit is what the Western Downs is known for and we thank each and every community member involved,” he said. “It’s great to see the younger generation participating and continuing to respect the selfless men and women of our armed forces.”

Anzac Day is a national public holiday and is considered by many Australians to be one of the most solemn days of the year. Marches by veterans from all past wars, as well as current serving members of the Australian Defence Force and Reserves, with allied veterans as well as the Australian Defence Force Cadets and Australian Air League and other service groups, are held in cities and towns nationwide.

Anzac Day is a national day of remembrance in Australia and New Zealand broadly commemorating all Australians and New Zealanders who served and died in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations” and “the contribution and suffering of all those who have served. On 25 April each year, Anzac Day honours the members of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) who fought at Gallipoli against the Ottoman Empire during World War I.

See the other Anzac Day events in the Southern Downs.