By Max Davies
WITH official Anzac Day commemorations observed for another year, Returned and Services League, RSL, officials are reflecting on the importance of the day to remember and appreciate those who served in Australia’s armed forces.
Services across the Mitchell and Macedon Ranges shires were supported by strong turnouts from veterans, their families and community members as they paid their respects to those who left for war but did not return home.
RSL Victoria vice president and Broadford resident Des Callaghan said it was important for the community to be able to share memories and appreciate those who served.
“For me, Anzac Day is always about mateship. Our veterans have got mates who didn’t make it home, mates that came home and some who have consequently died since or taken their own lives, which is a big issue that lives with you for the rest of your days,” he said.
“It’s also very important for the community because it gives them a chance to get out and see exactly what the soldiers do go through and hear some of their stories.”
Romsey Lancefield RSL president Reinhard Goschiniak – who hosted the services in Romsey and Lancefield – reminded people that Anzac Day, while important to the community, was not a day for celebration.
“To me, having served in a theatre of war, it’s a very moving type of commemoration. And don’t forget, we’re not celebrating war, we are commemorating the people that sacrificed their lives or got wounded in war and suffered as a result of it,” he said.
“[Anzac Day] has grown deeper every year, and now that I actually run the service in the end you want to say so much, but you’ve got a crowd of people in front of you and you think to yourself ‘if I keep talking, they’re just going to switch off’.”
Veterans have also had the opportunity to share their stories with younger generations through collaborations with primary schools in the area, while various community groups such as Lancefield Neighbourhood House supported Anzac Day services in the Macedon Ranges.
Police also assisted in safety for those who participated in the services, while the Australian Defence Force ran demonstrations.
“I’d say that the majority of the community have the utmost respect for our veterans, and they always will; they will always support the soldier who has worn the uniform,” Mr Callaghan said.
“I am sure the respect for returned servicemen and women will be here forever.”