By Mal Lynch
At 9 am a pair of military jets from 6 SQN RAAF Amberley made a low pass over High Street to initiate the Forest Lake Anzac Day commemorations.
Taking their cue, Veterans from Forest Lake & Districts RSL Sub-branch stepped off, marching to the Amphitheatre overlooking the lake.
They were joined by Australian Air Force Cadets, Army Cadets, and Cadets from the Australian Air League. Supported by many Forest Lake residents, the ceremony was a tribute paid by those in attendance.
CAPTION: Veterans on parade. All photos by Mal Lynch.
Caption: Australian Air Force Cadet Catafalque Party
During the ceremony Army and Air Force Cadets, Australian Air League members as well as numerous students from District schools provided a backdrop to the solemn occasion that unfolded.
The Reviewing Officer, Commander 11th Brigade, Brigadier Mark Armstrong, delivered the commemorative address.
Warrant Officer Patrick O’Shea, 1 Squadron RAAF Amberley, addressed the assembly, his speech touching on his family traditions dating back to WW1 and underlining the important contributions made by Australians and New Zealanders over the past 108 years.
It is those traditions carried on by family that make Anzac Day an important National day.
Acknowledgement of Country was delivered by Forest Lake State High School Captain, Timothy Doroshchuk.
The Forest Lake High School choir performed the hymn, “Abide with Me”.
The Psalm was delivered by Mikayla Braithwaite from St John’s Anglican College, and the Prayer of Remembrance by Senior Pastor Mark Mackay from Forest Lake Baptist Church.
The Wreath Laying Ceremony followed.
The occasion was attended by Milton Dick, the Federal Member for Oxley, and Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Wreaths were laid by dignitaries, service representatives, students, family members, and businesses that provide support to the Forest Lake community.
The Ceremony closed with “The Last Post” by bugler Dale Ezzy.
President of the Forest Lake & Districts RSL Sub-branch, Steve Ford, the committee, and club members would like to sincerely thank the community for their patronage at badge selling venues in the lead-up to Anzac Day and the generous donations received from district residents.
