Anzac tradition lives on
HUNDREDS of people gathered around the war memorial at Chris Cunningham Park, Tweed Heads, yesterday to remember and commemorate those men who gave their lives at Anzac Cove, Gallipoli, on April 25, 1915.
Tweed Heads and Cool-angatta Sub-branch secretary Dr John Griffin spoke of their sacrifices at the service of remembrance following the main parade.
“They had no idea they were creating a legend that is here 96 years on and will be for years to come,” Dr Griffin said.
Year 12 Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School student Kate Grant trav-elled to Borneo in September to learn more about the “silently forgotten” men who suffered as prisoners of the Japanese army in the Second World War.
“It was inspirational,” she said.
The stories of bravery amidst the hell opened her eyes to the terrible pain and suffering these otherwise ordinary men had experienced.
But it also shed light on their strength.
“They stand as testament to the strength of the human spirit,” she said.
Richmond MP Justine Elliot said the Anzac tradition was one of service and sacrifice.
“We owe them a continued debt of gratitude for all that they have sacrificed to maintain our freedom,” she said.
