General News
27 April, 2023
Anzac Day 2023 in the Central Goldfields
Hundreds marched and paid their respects around the Central Goldfields Shire during Anzac Day on Tuesday, in an emotion-filled day for young and old. Maryborough’s traditionally strong Anzac turnout left nothing to be desired on Tuesday, with...
Hundreds marched and paid their respects around the Central Goldfields Shire during Anzac Day on Tuesday, in an emotion-filled day for young and old.
Maryborough’s traditionally strong Anzac turnout left nothing to be desired on Tuesday, with hundreds commemorating the day at McLandress Square.
The Dawn Service was attended by over 100 people, while the march and morning service at 10.45 saw more than 300 residents show their respects to the sacrifices made by veteran and service people involved in the nation’s conflicts.
As in past years, the march was led by the Maryborough City Brass Band, followed by veterans and their families, students from local schools, Girl Guides, Scouts, Maryborough SES and local police, among others.
Marking the second year where Anzac Day services have been untouched by the pandemic, Maryborough RSL sub branch vice president Ben Holscher said it was a heart warming and emotional occasion, particularly with the involvement of young people.
“The day was absolutely a success, we had a healthy involvement from young people which is very important, they’re the future of Anzac Day,” he said.
“We do encourage younger generations to take part and get involved and it’s mainly to remind people of the service veterans went through in all wars.
“Most of the children who are involved have grandparents or relatives who have served so it’s important for them, they’re aware of that history and they’re taught about it in schools which is a great thing.
“It’s a touching thing to see young people be involved to the extent they are.”
The mid-morning service was emotionally charged, with a number of wreaths laid by veterans, service groups and community members, including a wreath laid by 98-year-old WWII veteran Ken McKenzie with the help of relatives to a resounding applause.
Students from Highview College and the Maryborough Education Centre spoke during the mid-morning service about Australia’s involvement at the Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea.
Maryborough’s guest Anzac Day speaker was Royal Australian Navy Captain Gerald Savvakis, who was involved in the naming of naval ship the HMAS Maryborough.
He spoke of the involvement of the Royal Australian Navy and sailors in the nation’s conflicts, going right back to the landing at Gallipoli.
