Diggers remembered at Bourke, Bre and Walgett
Time stood still across the outback at 11am on Monday 11 November as Remembrance Day services were held at Bourke, Brewarrina, and Walgett, and a special service broadcast on Outback Radio 2WEB.
Vietnam War veteran and President of Bourke RSL Victor Bartley said Remembrance Day is one of the two most important days on the RSL calendar.
“It’s a day that we all gather in towns and cities to give thanks to those who served our countries in wars and conflicts over many years,” Mr Bartley said.
“We remember those who served their country, those who died for our country, and those who are still suffering today,” Mr Bartley said.
The services at Bourke, Brewarrina and Walgett drew large crowds.
At Brewarrina, around 30 people attended the service, including Vietnam veteran, Keith Everett who raised the flag during the ceremony.
Manager of Brewarrina RSL, Claire Priestley said the service was meaningful with several people making speeches.
“President of the Bre RSL Tim Slack-Smith read the Ode of Remembrance, Mayor Tommy Stanton delivered the Commemorative Address and Bre Shire Council General Manager David Kirby read the Welcome and Acknowledgement of Country.”
Wreaths were laid on behalf of the Police, Health Service and Rural Fire Services and David Casswell read a poem. Students from local schools made poppies which decorated the gates by the RSL Clubrooms.
At Bourke Victor Bartley said that it is important for people to get along to Remembrance Day services but understands it is not always easy.
“Sometimes it’s a difficult for people because Remembrance Day is not a public holiday like Anzac Day,” he said.
“People have to work, and children have to go to school.
“Personally, I feel very proud and honoured to be there to say ‘thank you’ to those who have served our country. When people look at us and say, ‘thank you for your service’, that makes us a lot prouder to be who we are.” […]
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