General News
2 May, 2023
In silent memory of those who fell
Elaine Mitchell cast her mind back to the Siege of Tobruk as she stood in silence with her Natimuk friends and neighbours on Anzac Day. Four of her uncles fought in different countries during World War Two, and they were all killed near the Libyan...
Elaine Mitchell cast her mind back to the Siege of Tobruk as she stood in silence with her Natimuk friends and neighbours on Anzac Day.
Four of her uncles fought in different countries during World War Two, and they were all killed near the Libyan city on the shores of north Africa.
“This day is really important to me," she said.
"My relatives served in the military abroad and lost their lives in areas that were far too damaged for me to describe.
“They had a littleidea what they were getting into at the time, but they did a wonderful job in what they achieved for our nation and for the rest of the world.
“I really feel that the younger generation should understand what they’ve done for the rest of the country, and in a future to come, because war is still out there.”
The Natimuk Anzac Day ceremony began with a performance by Natimuk Brass band in the Natimuk Band Rotunda.
Natimuk RSL president Robert Ellis presented a speech before local army reservist David Sudholz raised the flag.
Among those who laid wreath layers were Natimuk United football and netball club members, Natimuk Primary School children and local residents.
The band played the national anthems of New Zealand and Australia at the end of the ceremony.
Horsham Rural City Councillor Ian Ross said it was a very important day for the country.
"We must never forget the men and women who served and lost their lives," he said.
"It’s our freedom, our democracy, and it’s a great time to remember.”
Natimuk RSL president and Vietnam veteran Robert Ellis said this ceremony gave locals a chance to remember their veterans.
“I’m really thankful to the community members for turning up," he said.
"It’s given them an opportunity which they might not have had.
“It gives them a chance to remember the people who died for them.”