Freedom only survives as long as people defend it – Captain Russell Boyce, from the 31st/42nd Royal Queensland Regiment had that message for the community of Blackall, one of many throughout the central west pausing for Anzac Day commemorative services.
“We gather on this day to value that freedom,” he said, noting that for New Zealanders and Australians, Anzac Day is “our day”.
“The Anzac campaign cannot be described as anything but a defeat, but its achievements can be measured in other ways, in courage and sacrifice and national identity.”
Blackall RSL president, Terry Brennan, noted that 102,000 Australians had given their lives in various spheres of war, but Anzac Day honoured more than the fallen.
“We must recognise that coming home doesn’t offer peace to some of our soldiers. Wounds heal slowly,” he said.
Over 150 veterans are buried in the cemetery at Blackall and are identified each Anzac Day with the placing of a small wooden cross on each grave, some dating back to 1919, by Blackall’s RSL Ladies Auxilliary.
Sally Gall
Based at Blackall, CW Qld, where I've raised a family, run Merino sheep and beef cattle, and helped develop a region - its history, tourism, education and communications. Get in touch at 0427 575 955 if you've got a story idea for me.
Based at Blackall, CW Qld, where I've raised a family, run Merino sheep and beef cattle, and helped develop a region - its history, tourism, education and communications. Get in touch at 0427 575 955 if you've got a story idea for me.
