April 30, 2026
Nanango RSL Sub-Branch members had a very busy Anzac Day, with visits to war graves, service and a town march as well as fellowship with fellow veterans who travelled back to town for the commemorations.
Saturday began with a gathering at Tara’s Hall followed by the Dawn Service and a gunfire breakfast.
A bus then took veterans to lay poppies on graves at Nanango Cemetery.
Later in the morning, veterans, residents, schoolchildren and representatives from local organisations were marshalled for the annual march down Drayton Street.
The march was followed by a commemoration service at the war memorial.
Speaking at this service, Nanango RSL Sub-branch president Charles Kemp said the Anzac tradition was forged in April 1915 but the elements of that tradition had offered an enduring example to later generations of Australians.
“Each year we pay homage, not only to those original Anzacs, but to all who died in ensuing conflicts or who were disabled in their service to this country,” Mr Kemp said.
“They enrich this nation’s history. Not only do we honour the memory of those Australians who have fallen in battle, we share the sorrow of those who mourn them, and all who have been the victims of armed conflict.
“On this day we remember with compassion those Australians who have suffered as prisoners-of-war and those who, because of war, have had their lives shortened or handicapped.”
The service also included prayers from Pastor Bill Hogan, from the Nanango Community Baptist Church; and celebrant Lowrian Redsell who shared a paean to the Unknown Soldier.
South Burnett Mayor Kathy Duff and Cr Jane Erkens also spoke, before students from Nanango State School, Nanango State High School and St Patrick’s Catholic School shared the biographies of several local soldiers.
A piper from the Burnett Celtic Pipes & Drums played as wreaths were laid at the foot of the monument.
A highlight of the morning was the flyover by an RAAF F/A-18F Super Hornet, which saluted the Yarraman Anzac Day commemoration before heading over Nanango on its way to Goomeri.
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The annual Nanango Anzac Day march, led by the Burnett Celtic Pipes & Drums, headed down Drayton Street to the memorial on the corner of Henry Street.
