Redlands marks Remembrance Day | Photos

Redlands RSL secretary Michael McDonnell led the service while Cleveland Anglican Parish Rector and Archdeacon of Moreton The Venerable Denise Ferguson led the prayer and benediction.

Mr McDonnell told the gathering the ceremony marked the end of World War I on November 11, 1918 and stood as a day of respect, marked in Allied countries to remember all who had then and since served the nation.   

“More than 60,000 Australians were killed in World War I, including 45,000 who died on the Western Front in France and Belgium and more than 8000 who died on the Gallipoli Peninsula in Turkey,” he said.

Mr McDonnell also acknowledged the Australian nurses who served on the Western Front.

“These nurses worked in overcrowded hospitals for up to 16 hours a day, looking after soldiers with shocking injuries,” he said.

“Those who worked in hospitals close to the fighting were also in danger of being shelled by the enemy.”

During the service, wreaths were placed at the cenotaph by representatives of a range of defence force units, community groups, schools and families in memory of those who lost their lives in all wars, with Redlands RSL president Alan Harcourt and Elwyn Finlayson placing wreaths for Australia and New Zealand.

Following the wreath ceremony, Mr Harcourt read The Ode, Faith Lutheran College, Redlands student Lauren Foster played the Last Post and Rouse and Redland Mayor Karen Williams sang the Australian national anthem.  

Mr Harcourt said he was pleased to see what he felt was a record crowd at the service.

“It’s a great turn up today,” he said.

“This is one of the biggest turn outs we’ve had for Remembrance Day.

“To see so many people here in the middle of the week is terrific.

“It’s great to see people come out, mark their respects and remember those who have fallen.”

Following the service, refreshments were held in the RSL’s Gallipoli Room.

Related story, more photos: Redlands remembers the fallen