April 27, 2019
Drayton Street was lined with spectators for Nanango’s annual Anzac Day march on Thursday.
The parade was made up of veterans, members of Nanango’s 177 Army Cadet Unit, local schools, scouts, and emergency services personnel.
Three refurbished army jeeps also took part, and a special highlight was an overflight by Jim Gollagher flying a Nieuport 11 replica in honour of World War I fighter ace Major Stan Dallas, who grew up on Mt Stanley Station.
It was standing room only at the war memorial – with the exception of seating reserved for veterans, VIPs and school children.
Member for Maranoa David Littleproud was this year’s guest speaker.
He spoke about the significance Anzac Day holds for all Australians and the importance of honouring former and current servicemen and women for the sacrifices they have made to serve the nation, as well as remembering the many generations who preceded them.
The 9:00am parade and Commemoration Service marked the conclusion of the day’s ceremonies.
They had begun with a well-attended Dawn Service at the Drayton Street War Memorial at 5:30am, and were followed by 7:00am pilgrimage to the war graves at Nanango Cemetery.
Afterwards, guests and spectators were invited to nearby Nanango RSL for post-service refreshments.
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Nanango’s Anzac Day Parade
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Anzac Day can be a deeply emotional time for Australia’s veterans and their families and some may find this time of year difficult.
The Department of Veterans Affairs has advised there are specialised counselling services and resources available.
- Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling Service (formerly VVCS) provides free and confidential counselling and support for current and former ADF members and their families. They can be reached 24/7 on 1800-011-046. Visit the Open Arms website for more information.
- DVA also provides help and treatment for any mental health condition. Phone 1800-555-254 or visit the DVA website
Veterans, their families and health care professionals can also visit the At-Ease Online portal for information about support available and online self-help tools, including:
- High Res – An eToolbox with resources to help serving and ex-serving ADF personnel and their families to manage stress and build resilience.
- PTSD Coach – Strategies to assist self-management of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) symptoms and treatment schedules.
- On Track with the Right Mix – Strategies for finding the right balance of diet, alcohol and exercise.
- Operation Life – information and resources on how to assist those at risk of suicide.
