Imagine one in every ten people you know going off to war.
That was the reality during the First World War, when 416,809 Australians, from a population of just four million, enlisted to serve. Even in Sandgate, the impact was deeply felt.
On Tuesday, 11 November, the community will pause to honour those who never returned, for Remembrance Day.
Most of the fallen were young men; sons, brothers, fathers and husbands. Nationally, 38.7 per cent of men aged 18 to 44 enlisted, leaving behind families forever changed,
While more than a century has passed, the sorrow of losing a loved one never fades.
Sandgate RSL Sub Branch vice president Paul Harris said Remembrance Day now recognises all those lost in or as a result of their service.
“We’ll be holding a service at the Sub Branch at 12 Burnett Place, rather than the Sandgate Memorial Park,” Paul said.
The service will begin at 10.50am, followed by morning tea and light refreshments.
Paul said the 1st Military Cadet Unit would form the catafalque party.
“There’ll be a commemorative address, the ode, benediction by Father Bryan Pipins and members of the public will be invited to lay a wreath or a poppy,” he said.
In the lead-up to the day, poppies, badges and memorabilia will be available for purchase at Sandgate Woolworths and Bracken Ridge Coles, with proceeds supporting veteran services.
Supporting Veterans and Strengthening Community
It’s been a busy year at the Sandgate RSL Sub Branch, which now boasts 371 members; a strong number for a Sub Branch not linked to a licensed venue.
“We’ve brought on new advocates to assist with veteran support, including recognition, compensation and welfare,” Paul said.
“We also finished renovations and leased the Memorial Hall building next door.
“Looking ahead, the Sub Branch has more projects in the works, including plans for a veterans’ community garden.
“We’ve had our share of unexpected challenges too, like figuring out how to handle the ongoing debris caused by the trees and birds in front of the Sub Branch.
“The Sub Branch is operated entirely by dedicated volunteers who work tirelessly to keep everything running smoothly.”
In the meantime, the community continues to come together through a range of social events each month.
- Social Night – First Friday
- Games Day – Second Wednesday
- Members Morning Tea – Third Wednesday
For updates or to get involved, follow the Sandgate RSL Sub Branch on Facebook, or contact us via email administration@sandgate.rslqld.net.au
Read more stories from the Sandgate Guide print magazine here:
- Bramble Buzz: Updates from the Community
- British Cinema Comes to Brisbane
- Podcast Review: The Imperfects
- Caught in a data breach? Here’s what to do next
- Grass Emperor – Lethrinus laticaudis
- Organic Gardening in November
- Art of Banksy Chapter 2 Premieres in Brisbane
- Moreton Bay All Abilities Colour Run
- Brit Beat Mania – The British Invasion
- Deck the Halls with Christmas Songs
- Emma’s Star Shines Brightly
- Festive Fashion According to Sandgate’s Stylist
- Big Things Happening at ‘Smalls’ Exhibition
- The Best Laid Plans …
- Celebrate Nature’s Beauty at Boondall’s Enchanted Ice Spectacular
- Caring for Our Local Birds
- New Name, Same Mission: VMR Brisbane Becomes MRQ Sandgate
- Outdoor Classroom Grows from Restored School Bushland Site
- Leftover Cooked Meat Curry
- Live Music Rocks Sandgate for A Local Cause
- Lord Mayor Promises Sandgate Revival
- Let’s Focus on Women’s Health
- Bayview Binny Puts Sandgate on the Map
- Day Out at Hidden World Playground
- Sandgate Theatre Explores the Meaning of Happiness
