Growing up with Grandparents who served in wars overseas, ANZAC day was something I was raised to respect the importance of marking this day every year and making sure that the memories and virtues of those who fought for our freedom were not lost as the years went on.
All through school leading up to ANZAC day we would talk in class about the importance of their sacrifices and how it meant we could learn in our schools and play in the playground without needing to worry about our safety or security.
After finishing school, the annual educational chats were swapped with attending dawn services at the local War Memorial, with the cold frosty gathering and the quiet moment of reflection while the Last Post is played on the Bugle.
This morning at a few minutes before six o’clock, Aldinga and indeed the rest of Australia reflected the significance of this day in a vastly different way. With streets of people standing in their driveways playing the Last Post through their devices, not being able to stand shoulder-to-shoulder or watching a few dignitaries attend ceremonies on our TV screens.
I am proud that this virus didn’t stop our community from remembering this important day. It reflected the resilience, creativity and respect of our community and our country.
Above all, I was incredibly surprised and grateful that on Friday, I received in my letterbox, a small knitted poppy with “Lest We Forget” written on a card attached to it. Even in this period of isolation, we are finding ways to keep connected and think of our fellow community members.
I hope you all had a chance to remember and reflect in your own way, and I look forward to returning to our usual traditions in 2021.
