Overwhelming support for ANZAC Day 2014.

 In the pre dawn gloom over eighty people gathered under cloudy skies, to the sounds of Kookaburras and small birds in the trees surrounding Memorial Park, to remember and pay tribute to the servicemen and women who have fought and died for their country. One could almost sense their presence as moonlight and starlight occasionally lit the park through breaks in the clouds.

There's the line that goes, 'the tumult and the shouting dies, the Captains and the Kings depart...', now pausing for some reflection after a Dawn Service, Gunfire Breakfast and Memorial Service one realises what this country and it's people are really all about.

A small community and a few good people with a lot of heart inspired a lot of others to share the reflections of both today (2014) and the last ninety nine years. When I speak of a few good people one immediately comes to mind, Jim White. Jim for many years, single handedly kept not only the Anzac Services going but also maintained the Sub Branch itself. That contribution is gratefully acknowledged.

The under eighteens were also involved in the running of a memorable Anzac Day and from their enthusiasm gave hope that we will indeed 'not forget'.

An event, or in this case events, such as Anzac Day services requires planning and behind the scenes activity to ensure that it runs smoothly. Acknowledgement for their contribution to this years services goes to:

In the significant roles of parade leader and flag attendant Dennis Wilkinson has long gone virtually unnoticed. The Fire Brigades' support with an important element of providing post service morning tea. Great job guys and gals. The Choral Society for leading the hymns and other songs adding their distinctive contribution to the Memorial Service. The Girl Guides for their role in offering and handing out the traditional poppies and sprigs of rosemary. 

Pastor Clem White of the Calvary Church for an address that underscored the values and qualities of the Anzacs and Elder Arthur Slater for leading prayers at the Dawn Service. In the Memorial Service David Allington paid tribute to the late Norm Apthorpe, who had for many years filled the role of leading prayers. David also provided insights into Norms World War two role in the development of radar used in aircraft, before himself leading this years prayers. Amy and Toby Blechynden delivered a moving address in tribute to a great, great, great uncle, Sergeant Alick Blechynden, who died in action on the 28^th of February 1917. Their address providing insights into his early life and the effects of his demise on the family.

Sister and Brother, Amy & Toby Blechynden

after delivering the address.

The Gunfire Breakfast Catering Corps, including Gavin, Carina (Sec/Tres), Meg and Drew Whittington, Laurie Johnson, nine year old Ethan and a couple of committee members, provided a hearty breakfast for over thirty people. This followed a tradition of meals on significant days in the rooms. The old army saying of 'all complaints in writing in quadruplicate' wasn't necessary as all left well satisfied.

Ready for Breakfast and the Reveal (background)

During the course of the breakfast a display featuring those on the Brookton Honour Roll was 'revealed'. This display will evolve into providing more of the 'human' face of those whose names are on both the cenotaph at Memorial Park and at the Memorial Hall foyer.

In his address to the 150 people present at the 10 am Memorial Service RSL president Graham Wearne acknowledged an anonymous donation of two thousand dollars to the Brookton Sub Branch and the gift of a memorial rose which was planted on the day.

The RSL hall, known to members as the RSL rooms, has over recent years fallen into disrepair. Plans are under way for its' refurbishment for which help is being sought. Built in 1956 on land donated by Mr Bert Seal it has seen many functions including the annual 'Dinner', Anzac day morning teas and was centre for the RSL Womens' Auxiliary activities.

As with Anzac Day being a day of remembrance, so also the local sub branch is a centre for the preservation of not only the memories of servicemen and women who left our shores, but also those who provided support on their return. Much like local artist, Jenny Coupers donation of this moving painting entitled 'Australian Son'. Jenny donated this to assist in fund raising.

Australian Son 

Artist Jenny Couper

In two years time the building will celebrate sixty years of being a feature in Robinson Road. Work that is done in the next two years will determine it's relevance and presence sixty years on.

Now the preparation begins for another time of sharing, a time of remembering and a time of participating in the work that makes the ceremonies and functions possible.

So, as we are proud of our heritage, we can be proud of the desire to recognise the greatness that has come out of so many years of remembering.

Lest we forget