ANZAC DAY SERVICES

ANZAC DAY SERVICES AROUND THE ISLANDS ATTRACT BIG CROWDS

Anzac Day on the islands started in the early hours with many islanders heading to Dawn Services on North Stradbroke, Coochiemudlo, Lamb, Macleay and Russell Islands.

Only on Karragarra Island it was again done with lovely difference with their ‘dusk’ service at the waters edge.

All the Anzac services around the islands were well supported and enjoyed in brilliant conditions.

It was great to see this year island children playing a significant role in the day.

The Macleay Island Dawn Service was its traditional ‘best’, with Father Jim Brown doing a great job with the Macleay Island RSL Sub Branch running proceedings and Cr Mark Edwards speaking the address, the first time he has been able to get to the island for this event, thanks to the Coast Guard.

The sun rise over the water directly onto the cenotaph was beautiful, and made even more special with students of the Macleay Island State School providing the catafalque party.

On Lamb Island the community really got behind the Dawn Service this year again with island school children playing a significant part.

Both dawn and main services were held on Russell Island, again with good attendances

The services were aided by the TS Diamantina Navy Cadets who annually make the pilgrimage to the islands for Anzac Day services.

The Russell Island RSL Club was a hive of activity for the remainder of the day with Gunfire breakfasts, reminiscing and the traditional ‘two up’.

A feature of the Coochiemudlo Island dawn and main services was the story of the Martin family; a tale of indigenous contribution to Australia fighting forces. Member for Redlands Kim Richards attended the main service.

The events were again organised by RSL stalwart Douglas Cope.

On North Stradbroke Island both Dawn and main services were held to the smallest turnout in years.

The island RSL Sub Branch conducted the event with a Gunfire breakfast following the Dawn Service, and at the Little Ship Club.

The final service for the day was at the brilliant Karragarra Beach for their now traditional ‘Dusk Service’ with record visitation from all islands.

A wonderful sunset overlooking the beach and the floral tributes are unique and beautiful.

They were then taken out into mid stream to float away in a fitting remembrance.

Great end to a wonderful day that pays tribute to those young Australians who have given so much.

• Anzac Returned Servicemen and women on Macleay !sland (top) and Russell Island

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