Remembrance Day is a time to honour the courage and sacrifice of those who served to defend Australia’s freedoms and values. More than just a historical commemoration, this day speaks to the personal legacies left behind, the families who carry the memories, the loved ones who still feel the loss. “It is on the back of their legacy that we enjoy our freedoms,” a legacy that has built the foundation for Australia’s prosperity, welfare, and opportunities. There were many events this last week and on Remembrance Day around Australia, with communities gathered across the nation to recognise and acknowledge both the sacrifices made and the families who still bear their weight. “Today we remember there is a cost to Australia’s way of life, prosperity, welfare system, healthcare system and the opportunities available to every Australian.”
We had representatives from our organisation representing war widows and veterans families at events across NSW, here is an overview of some of those events.
The Cenotaph, Sydney
This Monday, 11 November 2024, held a solemn Remembrance Day Service at the Cenotaph in Martin Place, Sydney, where invited guests gathered to honour the sacrifices of Australia’s servicemen and women. The ceremony began at 10:30 with selected attendees laying wreaths in tribute. Our President, Queen Dunbar laid a wreath upon the Cenotaph during the commemoration alongside RSL NSW President and Sydney Legacy President. Distinguished guests included military officials and veterans, who shared moving speeches about the significance of Remembrance Day. According to the RSL NSW, this annual event is a pivotal moment to reflect on the bravery and dedication of the armed forces.
Chatswood Remembrance Day service
Chatswood-Willoughby ANZAC Dawn Service & Commemoration Committee held a heartfelt Remembrance Day Service in the Garden of Remembrance on Albert Avenue, Chatswood. During the wreath laying, one of our members Michelle Carr laid a wreath on behalf of war widows and families of veterans. This service was supported by local schools and community groups, who participated in readings and musical tributes, enhancing the communal spirit and remembrance. Community involvement in such services is crucial for keeping the memories and stories of veterans alive.
Medowie Remembrance Day service
Medowie RSL sub-Branch hosted a Remembrance Day Commemoration at Medowie Social on Ferodale Road, where members of the community gathered to pay tribute to Australia’s servicemen and women. The ceremony featured wreath laying to honour the sacrifices of those who served. One of our members Adele Richards, attended on behalf of the organisation, paying tribute on behalf of war widows and families of veterans. RSL NSW highlighted the importance of such sub-Branch events in fostering local support networks for veterans and their families.
St Andrews Cathedral, Sydney
On Sunday the 10th, St Andrews Cathedral in Sydney hosted a special service to commemorate the 106th anniversary of Armistice. With this commemoration, there was also a lovely wreath laying ceremony during which Board Director Yvonne Stapleton laid a wreath on behalf of war widows and veteran families. This service, according to RSL NSW, is part of a broader effort to ensure that urban and rural communities alike have the opportunity to participate in acts of remembrance. The cathedral service included traditional hymns and prayers, providing a solemn and reflective environment.
Mounties Remembrance Day service
The Mounties Group Board of Directors held a Remembrance Day event on Monday, “the significant occasion will honour the courageous individuals who have served our nation”. Guests were encouraged to bring a wreath to lay, and our two members Dulcie Davis and Diane Carstairs attended on behalf of the Families of Veterans Guild. The event, as noted by RSL NSW, underscores how organisations beyond the RSL play a vital role in honouring veterans and supporting their families.
The Entrance & Long Jetty Remembrance Day service
Many of our members attended the Remembrance Day service at The Entrance & Long Jetty included member Joyce Mason who laid a wreath on behalf of the war widows of the area. Thanks to The Entrance Long Jetty RSL for hosting this beautiful service for our community to honour our veteran and their families that always support them.
NSW Association of Jewish Service & Ex-Service Men & Women (NAJEX)
On Sunday 10 November the NSW Association of Jewish Service & Ex-Service Men & Women (NAJEX) hosted a Jewish Communal Remembrance Day Commemoration and Wreath Laying at the NSW Jewish War Memorial (Sydney Jewish Museum) on Darlinghurst Road. The event began at 9:30 AM and included a moving occasional address by Rabbi Dr. Benjamin Elton, Chief Minister of The Great Synagogue. Ms. Queen Dunbar, State President of the Families of Veterans Guild, attended on behalf of the organisation and laid a wreath on behalf of war widows and veteran families. The ceremony was followed by light refreshments, fostering a moment of community and reflection among the attendees.
The Sydney War Graves Cemetery
A week before Remembrance Day, a beautiful service was held by the RSL Western Metropolitan District at one of the most serene environment within the city, the Sydney War Graves Cemetery within the Rookwood Cemetery boundary. Our President, Queen Dunbar, attended the service along with many dignitaries and laid a wreath on behalf of war widows and families.
View photo’s of the commemorations held on this years Remembrance Day below.
