Northern Health held its annual ANZAC Service at Dianella Hostel at the Kilmore District Hospital.
For many years, this service has been an important tradition, allowing staff, patients, residents and the community to come together to honour the courage and sacrifice of those who served in times of war.
This years’ service was the first time Kilmore District Hospital hosted Northern Health’s annual ANZAC Service, after previously being held at Bundoora Centre for more than a decade. Kilmore District Hospital and Northern Health voluntarily amalgamated in November 2023.
The service commenced with a welcome and acknowledgment of guests by master of ceremonies, Jennifer Gilham, Divisional Director Community Hospitals and Bec Van de Paverd, Divisional Director Medicine and Cancer Services.
“On 25 April 1915, Gallipoli was the site of the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during the First World War,” Ms Gilham said.
“Today, we remember and honour the 60,000 Australians who were killed and 156,000 wounded or taken prisoner in that war. We also remember over 800 Aboriginal Australians who landed at Gallipoli, 13 of whom were killed in action. We remember the more than 3,000 Australian civilian nurses who volunteered for active service in the First World War.”
Debra Bourne, Chief Executive, Northern Health, delivered the ANZAC Address. She drew attention to Northern Health’s strong relationship with Kilmore District Hospital, and the Australian nurses who provided service during the World Wars.
“Their bravery left an indelible mark on the broader medical field, inspiring generations to follow. Many were honoured for their heroism, while others paid the ultimate price. Yet, their selflessness often remains overshadowed, lost amidst the louder echoes of history,” Ms Bourne said.
“For over a decade, our ANZAC Service has been deeply rooted in Bundoora Centre. This year, however, marks a new chapter. We proudly unite with the residents and dedicated staff of Kilmore District Hospital to commemorate ANZAC Day—an occasion steeped in remembrance, respect, and reflection.”
Members of the local community were also in attendance, including Cindy McLeish MP, State Member for Eildon, Dean Adams and Tim Clancy, Ambulance Victorian, Peter Cracker, Commemorations Officer, Kilmore Wallan RSL, David Cretney, Watsonia RSL, Whittlesea Township Choir and the Ukulele Kilmore Group.
The ceremony also featured performances by the Northern Health Community Choir, the Whittlesea Township Choir and the Kilmore Ukulele Group.