The Maroondah community is being encouraged to take a moment on Remembrance Day this 11 November to reflect on the sacrifices of those who have bravely served our nation in wartime, and to the men and women who continue to serve in military conflict and peacekeeping operations around the world.
On Remembrance Day 2020 – the year that marks the 75th anniversary of the end of WWII – we honour, recognise and remember all veterans, including those who served in WWII. We also acknowledge and remember those who gave their lives in service to our country.
While we can’t mark this year’s Remembrance Day with traditional commemorations and gatherings, there are many ways we can connect with and thank veterans in a COVID-19 safe way.
Residents can join the Shrine of Remembrance livestream service via the Shrine’s Facebook page on 11 November or pause for a minute’s silence at 11am from wherever they are on the day.
You can also plant a virtual poppy in the RSL Poppy Appeal Remembrance Garden and leave a special message in commemoration of a loved one. Money raised through the annual Poppy Appeal fundraiser will go towards funding vital services for veterans and their families
The Ringwood RSL will hold a private commemorative service at the Ringwood Memorial Clocktower, no members of the public can attend due to restrictions still in place on large outdoor gatherings.
The service will be attended by the RSL sub-branch’s President, Vietnam Veteran David Jamison, who will lay a single wreath. At Ringwood Town Square, a lone bugler will sound The Last Post before a minute’s silence at 11am.
Mr Jamison encouraged anyone wishing to place a wreath at the Ringwood cenotaph to do so throughout the day while being mindful of social distancing rules.
“It’s a difficult year for many families who aren’t able to attend traditional services, but we would encourage them to hold their own personal Remembrance Day service,” he said.
In the absence of a traditional service, the Croydon RSL will mark the day with a small wreath-laying ceremony to be attended by the sub-branch’s President John Hexter and Secretary Nigel Edwards.
Mr Hexter said regardless of the form this year’s Remembrance Day commemorations take, we will always remember the dedication, commitment and sacrifice of our Defence Forces, past and present.
Donations are welcome at both local RSL sub-branches. Visit Croydon RSL, 1 Civic Square, Croydon or phone 9723 1315, or Ringwood RSL at 16 Station Street, Ringwood or phone 9870 6604.
How to show your support
Shrine of Remembrance livestream service
You can tune in to an online commemorative broadcast at 10.45am, livestreamed on the Shrine’s Facebook and Youtube channels.
Use social media
Share your message of support for veterans by using the hashtags #RemembranceDay20 #VictoriaRemembers and #RedtoRemember. See the Victoria Remembers Facebook page
Red to Remember – Melbourne
Ten of Melbourne’s cultural and civic buildings will be lit in red to honour veterans and their families. Visit the Victorian Government website for a list of participating buildings.
Create Remembrance Day Messenger Bird
Children and families are encouraged to remember this year by creating a messenger bird for someone they’re missing.
In war and peace, birds have carried messages across vast distances. During wartime, messenger birds kept people connected, shared important information and always knew the way home. At the opening of the Shrine of Remembrance in 1934, hundreds of doves were released from the monument’s balcony in celebration of war’s end.
Download a template and get crafty and create a messenger dove with young ones with a sign of peace, wellbeing and hope.
Learn about veterans’ stories
Victorians are encouraged to learn about veterans’ stories and join online exhibitions and events to recognise Remembrance Day in a COVID-safe way. Visit the Victorian Government website
