Redcliffe RSL announces service changes

Redcliffe RSL has scaled back its plans for Anzac Day in a bid to keep the community safe, while still honouring veterans.

The Sub-Branch will proceed with its Dawn Service, but has cancelled its mid-morning service and march along with its Woody Point service.

It has also cancelled its cemetery service, which usually takes place the weekend before Anzac Day.

Vice-President Cheryl Barrett says the ongoing threat posed by COVID-19 had forced their hand.

“We feel we need to do it for the veterans but we know we have to keep everyone safe, especially our high-risk veterans,” Ms Barrett says.

The Sub-Branch is working closely with Queensland Health on a COVID-Safe plan for the Dawn Service.

There will be limited seating capacity and while the RSL would love to welcome everyone, it is encouraging those at high risk and others to tune into the service which will be broadcast on community radio station 99.7FM.

“We’re encouraging people to stand at the end of their driveways and listen to the broadcast on 99.7FM,” Ms Barrett says.

What’s happening on the day?

The service will start at 5.30am, following a short march by veterans from Baker St at 5.15am.

Only invited guests will be permitted in the cordoned off area and space will be allocated for those with mobility issues.

VIPs will be permitted to lay wreaths alongside Redcliffe RSL president Neville Cullen. Everyone else will have an opportunity to lay wreaths after the ceremony.

The RSL will still host its Gunfire Breakfast after the ceremony, with veterans and their families to be given preference and allowed to enter first. If there is room, others will be allowed to enter. Those attending are asked to make a gold coin donation which will be passed on to Legacy.

Redcliffe RSL will be open after the service, with two-up starting at 1pm.

Parking changes

There won’t be parking at Redcliffe Showground this year, as its Sunday markets will be running, but there will be parking at Pearson Park, Klingner Rd (adjacent to the TAFE campus). SES will be onsite to assist, but there won’t be a shuttle bus.

Disability parking will be available across the road from Redcliffe Police Station.

More information will be provided closer to the day.

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