July 9, 2026
Wondai might not have a very strong connection to the ocean but that didn’t stop the 2026 Reserve Forces Day commemorations last Sunday from honouring the service of naval reservists.
The annual service and march is believed to be the only commemoration of Reserve Forces Day in regional Queensland.
Reservists and ex-reservists gather in Wondai every year for the event which recognises the 1.25 million men and women who have been served as reservists in the Defence Force since Federation.
It was the 21st time Wondai, which is home to the 25/49 RQR depot, has marked Reserve Forces Day and the 20th time it has hosted a parade.
The focus changes every year, from Army to Air Force to Navy … and 2026 was deemed a Navy year.
Guest speaker was Mr Patrick Ringold OAM, president of the Queensland section of the Naval Association of Australia.
Mr Ringold said reservists put their regular lives “on hold” to support national or international operations.
He reminded guests that 2026 was the 125th anniversary of the Australian Navy, which was granted the title “Royal” in 1911.
“The Navy has been present wherever Australia’s interests, value and people have needed protection,” Mr Ringold said.
Former Petty Officer Heather Selway read a message from the Governor-General, Her Excellency Ms Sam Mostyn AC.
She said the day was a reminder of the selfless service of reservists who have helped defend Australia and support peace-keeping, disaster relief and humanitarian operations around the world since Federation.
A small committee organises the annual Reserve Forces Day commemorations in Wondai, headed by local residents Noel Selway and Wally Knight, who compered the event.
The morning began with a flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremony at the Wondai Monument, followed after a short break by a parade down Mackenzie Street and a service at the Percy Iszlaub Pavilion in Coronation Park.
