THE Mount Gambier Community RSL has called on the public to not attend this year’s Anzac Day dawn service at the Vansittart Park Soldiers Memorial in light of the coronavirus pandemic.
The service will be restricted to 500 attendees – falling in line with advice from the Federal Government – which will be made up by dignitaries, veterans and RSL members.
Advice received from health authorities and the government has also led to the cancellation of the traditional street parade and mid-morning service.
Mount Gambier Community RSL president Bob Sandow said the situation was “outside of their control”, however they will still offer opportunities for members of the public to pay their respects.
“The non-veteran groups who normally place a wreath, we are asking for you to advise the RSL should you wish to do so,” he said.
“We will enforce one person per wreath.
“A veteran will be nominated to place a wreath in honour of all local schools.”
However, Mr Sandow said schools would still be welcome to place wreaths at another time during Anzac Day to honour the veterans.
“Schools are most welcome to place wreaths on any of the Soldiers Memorials throughout Anzac Day in private school groups, which will limit exposure to others,” he said.
“If the RSL is advised beforehand, we will attend and recite the Ode if you wish.”
Following a meeting on Wednesday night, the committee decided to allow other small traditional services to take place over the Anzac Day weekend.
The Kapyong Korean service will be held at the Soldiers Memorial on April 24 at 11am and the public is invited to attend.
“The public is also invited to attend the Boer War Soldiers’ Memorial on Bay Road and the Airmen’s Service at the Lakes Terrace cemetery,” Mr Sandow said.
“Both these services start at 9am on Anzac Day.”
Mr Sandow said these services have traditionally attracted low numbers in the past.
“Perhaps this is another way of remembering our veterans,” he said.
