Australians across the country will once again pause to remember fallen servicemen and women this ANZAC Day, with the local community preparing to mark the occasion through a series of commemorations.
Beaudesert RSL Sub-Branch president David Kassulke said the day remains the most significant event on the calendar for the organisation.
“ANZAC Day is the premier day of commemoration in the year,” Mr Kassulke said.
“There’s a lot of work that goes into it. It’s quite a logistical exercise just to get everyone in the right place at the right time,” he said.
In the lead up to April 25, the sub-branch has been actively engaging with the community, including visits to local schools, aged care facilities and commemorative services across the region.
Mr Kassulke said those efforts were important in ensuring the meaning of ANZAC Day continued to resonate, particularly with younger generations.
“It’s important that we continue to share these stories with younger generations,” he said.
“You can see how much it continues to mean to the community as there seems to be growing interest in ANZAC Day, and the crowds are increasing year to year.”
Mr Kassulke said the day also served as a reminder of Australia’s military history and ongoing service.
“Australia does have a very proud military tradition,” he said.
“It’s important that we commemorate what has gone before and not forget our current serving defence personnel.”
Mr Kassulke said the significance of ANZAC Day continues to hold strong in an increasingly uncertain world.
“The key message is that the country continues through highs and lows,” he said.
“There have been challenges in the past, and there will be challenges in the future. Australians stick by each other – that’s the Aussie mentality.”
Local residents are encouraged to attend services and take part in commemorations across the Scenic Rim.
Beaudesert ANZAC Day services:
Dawn Service: 4.20am – 5.00am
March: 11.00am – 12noon
Rathdowney ANZAC Day service:
From 8.00am
Kooralbyn ANZAC Day services:Dawn Service: 5.30am
March and Memorial Service: 9.45am (March from Hitching Rail) 10.00am Memorial Service
