As far back as he can remember, Private Jake Gollan has commemorated every Anzac Day in his NSW home town of Casino; the only exception being 2021 when he was away on training right after joining the Army.
Now a distribution operator at Brisbane’s 1st Signals Regiment, he plans to make up for last year’s absence by returning to Casino this year for Anzac Day with a renewed appreciation of its significance.
“It means more to me now,” Private Gollan said. “I think it’s the most inspiring thing to be out there with the uniform showing people how much you love your country.
“Anzac Day always has been a big thing in my life because my father made it that way, but now wearing the green, I understand how much it means.”
Having a father who spent time in the Air Force and a twin sister who is serving in the Air Force, it seemed logical for Private Gollan to pursue the military path.
“It was a huge step to go from such a small town where I worked at a meat factory, to the Army,” he said.
“I went from a small, country, cowboy town and I’m now living in a city. The military is now my life.
“I still love the town; I still love the community down there.”
Watching helplessly as his beloved home town has been impacted by devastating floods, Private Gollan thought constantly of his family and friends who were in the region.
For him, returning to Casino this year is one way for him to show support during a difficult time.
“I think I can provide a familiar face and show that I’m there to support.
“I’m proud of the Gollan name on my uniform, and I’m proud to represent my family.
“One really good thing about being from Casino is that we’re really big on Anzac Day.
“Now being a military member, it’s such a big difference knowing exactly what Anzacs have offered Australians.
“I’ve learnt so much more from being in the Army, and have realised how much it means to our country, to everyone – seeing people out on the streets, at dawn services – the only reason they’re out is because of the Anzacs.
“For me, joining the Army was the best step of my life.
“I initially wanted to be a police officer but I followed my sister’s footsteps instead.
“For me to choose Army; it was such a big choice, and the best choice.”
