RSL pays tribute to the fallen ahead of Anzac Day

Veterans who have gone before us will be remembered for their bravery and sacrifices at a special Anzac service at the Redcliffe Cemetery this weekend.

Redcliffe RSL Deputy President Karen Hemers says this unique service is designed as a tribute to the lives of fallen Diggers from the local area.

“This service is a not a sombre occasion, but rather a celebration of people’s lives,” Karen says.

“In the Redcliffe Cemetery alone, there is almost 1000 servicemen and women there, so it is important we honour those who have served for our country.”

Members of the Redcliffe RSL, along with those from ex-service organisations and local cadets will all visit the cemetery on Saturday where they will place flags on the graves of the servicemen and women.

Then on Sunday, the community can attend the service which pays homage to the fallen at 10am.

Family members, or those who simply wish to pay their respects, are welcome.

During the service, the flags will be removed, and poppies placed on each grave, which are handmade by the Redcliffe Legacy Laurel Ladies.

There will also be a presentation for the Service Cadet of the Year awards, and a band.

It’s a tradition which has been held for more than two decades.

“The Redcliffe RSL has been doing this special service for more than 20 years,” Karen says.

“It’s very unique, and we don’t know of anyone else who does this.”

The cemetery service is normally held one week out from Anzac Day, but due to the Easter long weekend, the service will be held early this year.

Moving on past Covid

The COVID-19 pandemic has made it hard for RSL Clubs to host their normal services and marches, but Karen says the veterans were never forgotten.

“While we were not able to hold the cemetery service last year, we did ensure the veterans received their flags and their poppies,” Karen says.

“While it was good to see people stand out near their letterboxes at dawn on Anzac Day for the last two years, we are hoping people will return for our services and march.

“We want people to come out and give thanks to the veterans for what they have done to protect our country.

“It is our way of remembering everything they have done for us.

“We remember everyone who has served, from all wars, not just WWI and WWII.”

The Redcliffe RSL will once again host its Dawn Service and March at Anzac Place at 5.30am, as well as a Gunfire Breakfast at the club.

This will be followed by the Woody Point Service at 8.30am and the mid-morning March and Service along Redcliffe Parade at 10.30am.

Visit the Redcliffe RSL website for more information.