THE sounds of bagpipes will not go unheard on Anzac Day despite the cancellation of public commemorative gatherings as a result of COVID-19 restrictions.
Pipers from around the region will join thousands across Australia – whether at their homes or at war memorials – at 11am on April and play Amazing Grace.
Last month, the South Australian RSL cancelled all Anzac Day ceremonies beyond Dawn Services throughout the state, saying the decision was in the “best interest and wellbeing of our ageing veterans”.
The group said Dawn Services are only to be held with sub-branch members and the public are asked not to attend.
Penola and District Caledonia Pipe Band major Janet Bellinger said she “would not be surprised” if members participate in the movement due to the inclusion players have on the important day.
She said the band traditionally separates across the region to play at Dawn Services before returning to Penola for the town’s event.
“We have members who live out of town and a few which live in town who will be able to play,” Ms Bellinger said.
“The idea itself is fantastic and we were going to play for the Victoria of Europe in May, but that has now been cancelled as well.”
Ms Bellinger said members of the band would do whatever is required to support the significant event, returned service men and women and those who died in the line of duty.
“Anzac Day is special both to myself and my sister because our father previously served,” she said.
“We both play the pipes and we will be taking part
“It is important because it is for all of the ex-servicemen, those who have served here and overseas and the pipes also played a big part in both world wars.
“There are stories of pipers who played for those to go to battle and for those retreating from battle, so it has been a part of the army and what the soldiers have experienced.
“It is just what we do and the pipes is a part of the service too.
” When you get to play as a soloist a few people often tear up in remembrance of what the days are about.”
Due to social distancing requirements, the band has been forced to cancelled its practice sessions.
However, Ms Bellinger said band members have been encouraged to continue their practice.
“There is list of tunes that we were to play over the winter period, so when we meet again those tunes they have played over the past few months will still be there,” she said.
“Right around the world there have been practices for pipers cancelled with halls and other areas being closed.
“It is just a sad thing that we cannot play but we do need to be safe,” she said.
“We have already been approached and asked if we could come back and play during Remembrance Day if all is back to normal.”
