THE long-term future of the Port MacDonnell Anzac Day dawn service is under a cloud amid falling volunteer numbers and the potential closure of the town’s RSL sub-branch.
Port MacDonnell and District RSL branch has approached Grant District Council to accept the organisational responsibilities of the dawn service to ensure it continues.
At council’s full meeting this week, elected members adjourned a decision until early next year.
RSL Sub-branch secretary Leonie Feast said in a letter to council there was now only a small number of volunteers.
“Over the past 12 months we have held several discussions at our meetings regarding the closure of our sub-branch at the end of this year,” Ms Feast said.
She said the few members remaining did not want to continue in their role next year.
As a consequence, she said the decision would lead to the loss of the Anzac Day dawn service and community breakfast.
“It would be extremely disappointing if this event was not to continue, as this service is well supported by many community members,” Ms Feast said.
“Our sub-branch members are willing to work with council staff for the 2020 service.
“But beyond 2020, members would step aside after many years of service.”
In the meeting, elected members canvassed the issue and agreed to adjourn a decision until early next year.
Cr Shirley Little was among elected members who praised the iconic event.
The councillor questioned whether the Port MacDonnell Men’s Shed could be willing to take it on board along with other community groups.
Cr Little said she needed more information before making a decision.
Mayor Richard Sage – who has met with the sub-branch members – said the organisation was in a difficult position.
“They have an ageing fraternity and not a lot of people are coming out of the woodwork,” Mr Sage said.
He suggested there was an opportunity to “rally the troops” at next year’s dawn service to ensure its longevity.
Cr Brad Mann told the chamber it was an important event to keep.
However, he said getting the same donations as a community could be a challenge.
Cr Barry Kuhl argued running a dawn service may not be something council should be involved in and warned the cost could blow out.
Adding to the debate, Cr Megan Dukalskis queried if the Mount Gambier Community RSL could help as well as the state branch.
In a report to council, chief executive officer Darryl Whicker said the dawn service attracted between 250 to 350 people.
“The RSL has delivered this event using volunteer RSL members, community and council support,” Mr Whicker said.
“While it was unlikely council could deliver this event at the same price as the RSL due fixed costs of labour and award penalties, event is enshrined as a cornerstone event for the community.”
