Residents, family members and staff at Southern Cross Care locations across Western Australia commemorated Anzac Day (25 April) with a day of remembrance.
From Broome to Cooloongup, services and events honoured the service and sacrifice of the original Anzacs and the subsequent generations of servicemen and women. This year again held extra significance as part of the Anzac Centenary 2014 to 2018, marking 100 years since the First World War.
At the Success retirement village, the day started with a service – arranged by resident Terry Corkhill – attended by over 90 people.
Margaret Chase, Success village manager, says:
“It was a very moving service. Wreaths were laid and addresses made by a number of residents – including the recitation of ‘The Ode’ by resident Ken Thompson – were followed by ‘The Last Post’ and a minute’s silence. We raised the flag and played the national anthem. People were visibly moved by the spoken words and sense of occasion.”
A wartime singalong was tempered with quiet reflection at Margaret Hubery House care home in Rossmoyne. Jacqui O’Meara, activities coordinator, says:
“Anzac Day is a special tradition at Margaret Hubery House. We paused to remember the fallen with a beautiful and moving service featuring readings by several residents.
“We were privileged to welcome back retired Lt Col Roy Desker of 3rd Battalion Infantry Regiment of the Singapore Armed Forces – whose mother was a former resident – and his wife, Sheila, to help us mark the occasion. Around 40 people enjoyed the singalong before tea and Anzac biscuits.”
Lest we forget.