AnzacDay Gallipoli spirit shines brightly

l CAIRNS ESPLANADE

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

THOUSANDS of Cairns residents took to the streets early in the morning to commemorate our war veterans and service people on ANZAC Day.

With an attendance of about 5000 at the dawn service and 1500 at the commemorative service, Cairns’ ANZAC services remain a solemn occasion for the community.

This year ANZAC Day also paid tribute to the 50th anniversary of Australia’s end of involvement in the Vietnam War with Vietnam veterans at the head of the services parade.

Cairns Mayor Bob Manning applauded the spirit of Anzacs, who upheld the service ideals throughout the years and different conflicts and thanked their families for their sacrifice.

“This meeting voices its heartfelt sympathy for the relatives of those who during these wars and conflicts make the supreme sacrifice and with those who have suffered on behalf of the Commonwealth,” Cr Manning said.

The commanding officer of the 51st battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Jeremy Schieb, reflected on Far North Queenslanders’ role in ANZAC history.

“At the outbreak of WWII, the 51st battalion was a militia unit of civil soldiers fighting here in Cairns and made up of soldiers from across the region,” he said.

“The battalion took part in vicious fighting across New

Guinea, the Solomon Islands and Bougainville; 61 men were killed and a further 168 wounded, their names forever etched in our memories.

“Amidst the chaos, danger and uncertainty, the men and women of the north joined ranks in our time of need; it’s the same spirit of resilience and determination that we see today in our troops.

“Today, we honour the Anzacs and all of those who have served our nation; let us remember the sacrifices of those who have come before us; let us also reflect on the proud history and lineage of this region.” During the ceremony, Commander Mark Williams laid a wreath on behalf of the Australian Defence Force and the people of Cairns.