An Anzac Day tribute from the residents of our villages
In the lead-up to Anzac Day, one of our most important national occasions, our residents and their families at both Wommin Bay and Bangalow Villages gathered for a special service to remember the brave men and women who served our country. It was a time for everyone to come together and pay their heartfelt respects to our heroes, past and present.
Jill from Bangalow Village served as Secretary to the Commanding Officer at Point Cook and she said,
“I joined the military because I wanted to do something worthwhile and see Australia. I consider it a great privilege to have served.”
The Anzac services started before lunch with the stirring sound of “The Last Post,” a bugle call that marks the beginning of Anzac Day services across Australia and New Zealand. This was followed by one minute’s silence to think about the sacrifices made for our freedoms.
Proud Anzac Geoff from Wommin Bay, served in Papua New Guinea in 1942 and Dutch Borneo in 1944. He very humbly reflected,
“I remember friends who sacrificed their lives for others. I look forward to ANZAC Day and enjoy being part of the service.”
“I didn’t do a thing in comparison to many men during the War. I was in the Artillery regiment. We supported the inventory soldiers and ensured they had shells.”
“I remember my father who was a WWI ANZAC and my two brothers who were involved in the war before me. I wanted to do it too because of them,”
After the quiet moment, some residents shared stories about friends and family members who have served in various conflicts. It was a way for everyone to feel connected and remember the personal stories behind the history.
Once the services finished, residents gathered for a morning tea together, where the stories continued. It was a lovely opportunity to keep talking, and share laughs and sometimes tears, as the residents and staff honored those who came before us.
Our simple yet poignant gatherings at Wommin Bay and Bangalow Villages were our way of continuing the legacy of courage and togetherness that our soldiers stood for then – and today. So, to honour them, we stood together, proud and thankful to the countless selfless souls whose fiercely brave actions will never be forgotten.
Lest we forget.
