Dungog remembers the fallen on Remembrance Day Dungog Shire Dungog Shire News by News Of The Area - Modern Media - November 20, 2024 Servicemen marching to the Cenotaph. ON Monday 11 November, the Dungog community gathered at the Dungog RSL Memorial Club Cenotaph to honour the more than 103,000 Australians who have lost their lives in wars, conflicts, and peace operations. The service was conducted by the Dungog RSL sub-Branch. Advertise with News of The Area today. It’s worth it for your business. Message us. Phone us – (02) 4981 8882. Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au The reading was delivered by Deputy Mayor Alexandria Carruthers, representing Senator Deborah O’Neill, who joined RSL members, school representatives, the Rural Fire Service, and community members in solemn reflection. The ceremony began with the flag lowered to half-mast and the march to the Cenotaph. Prayers were read by Angus McMahon of St Joseph’s Primary School, and Edie Lovegrove and Parker Drinkwater from Dungog Public School. Dungog High School presidents Freya Rubeli and Ollie Felton-Taylor delivered the commemorative address, marking 110 years since the beginning of World War One. “We recognise the servicemen and women who have served our countries in warzones up to and on this day,” said Freya Rubeli during her address. “We recognise the traumas inflicted upon people in warzones and are reminded that war is not something to be taken lightly or rushed into. “We recognise the strength and resilience our soldiers and service people have, and aspire to become more like them through those traits.” Dungog RSL sub-Branch Vice President Martin Holmes CSM said Mr Felton-Taylor’s speech was “particularly stirring”. “[He] spoke of his relative who participated in the charge of Beersheba in WW1 and was seriously wounded by a Turkish soldier while jumping his horse over the trenches,” Mr Holmes said. Key elements of the service included the laying of wreaths, the recitation of The Ode of Remembrance, the playing of The Last Post, and a minute’s silence. The ceremony concluded with the raising of the flag and the national anthem. Originally known as Armistice Day to mark the end of World War One on 11 November 1918, the day was renamed Remembrance Day after World War Two to honour all Australian soldiers who died in service. The Dungog RSL sub-Branch invites all members of the public to attend future services, encouraging attendees to wear entitled medals, with family-awarded medals worn on the right side as a mark of respect. This annual event unites the community in remembrance and gratitude for the sacrifices made in the pursuit of peace and freedom. By Shannon BENTON Attendees gathering for the service. Wreaths laid at the service. Dungog RSL sub-Branch members. Nic Helyer laying a wreath for Legacy.
