From World War I to the present day, services will be held across the Northern Beaches to honour the
sacrifice and the dedication of serving Australians this 11 November.
Beyond tradition, Remembrance Day represents the sacrifice and the values of millions of Australians who, throughout the decades, have dedicated their lives not only to serve Australia but also the world.
On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918, the guns fell silent on the Western Front after four years of the bloodshed of World War I. Around 62,000 Australians died fighting for freedom and in service for our nation.
Over a century, this moment has been commemorated around the globe to remember those who served and sacrificed in all wars and conflicts.
In the spirit of honouring past and current serving Australians in the Defence Forces, every year on 11 November, their commitment is recognised in a Remembrance Day service.
Northern Beaches Council Mayor Sue Heins says: “Remembrance Day commemorates the Armistice which formally concluded hostilities in World War I. Our community has a proud history of commemorating all those who have served in wars and conflicts. This Remembrance Day, memorials will be held across the Peninsula, with large numbers expected to attend.
As we take a minute out of our day, we stand together in solidarity to pay our respects to all who were fallen. Lest we forget.”
Council will host two public services on 11 November, where locals can lay private tributes at Manly Dam (from 10.15am) and the Manly War Memorial, The Corso (in front of Manly Town Hall) at 10:45am.
Bob Lunnon, president of the Forestville RSL sub-Branch and the Northern Beaches RSL District Council, highlights the importance of this day, not only as a commemoration of those who have fallen or suffered, but also to honour those who are continuously serving Australia.
“We commemorate those who served, those who bled and those who lost their lives during all the campaigns and battles as part of World War I, which is now 110 years ago. It is to commemorate the participation of Australians in a war that was largely fought on the other side of the world and which has given us traditions that we now uphold year after year, with regard to honouring those who served on the other side of the world.
“Remembrance Day now commemorates all those who served in campaigns, wars and battles, including World War II and the Korean War, the Vietnam War, through to the current,” Mr Lunnon explains.
REMEMBRANCE DAY AND REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY SERVICES ON THE NORTHERN BEACHES
- Avalon Beach | 11 Nov, 10:45am – Dunbar Park followed by members’ lunch (medals to be worn)
- BSC | 5 Nov, 10:30am – Balgowlah RSL Memorial Club
- Collaroy | 11 Nov, 10:45am – Collaroy Beach Memorial Park (TBC)
- Dee Why | 11 Nov, 10:30am – Dee Why RSL Club Peace Garden
- Forestville | 11 Nov, 10:35am – Forestville RSL Club Cenotaph
- Harbord | 11 Nov, 10:15am – Jacka Park ‘Wall of Remembrance’
- Narrabeen | 11 Nov, 10:45am – Narrabeen Cenotaph
- Pittwater | 11 Nov, 10:20am – Lower Cenotaph, Pittwater RSL Club
- War Vets Village | 11 Nov, 10:30am – Montgomery Theatre and Forecourt
For more information, contact your local or closest RSL sub-branch.