Mackay Celebrates 79 Years After Victory In The Pacific

Mackay’s 2024 annual Victory in the Pacific (VP) Day ceremony took place last Thursday, August 15th, at Jubilee Park, marking the 79th anniversary of the end of the Second World War.  

The event was a solemn and reflective occasion, drawing together the community to honour the sacrifices made by those who served in the war.

Victory in the Pacific Day commemorates the moment when Australia’s Prime Minister at the time, Ben Chifley, announced the end of the war against Japan on August 15, 1945. In his address to the nation, Chifley declared, "Fellow citizens, the war is over.  

“The Japanese Government has accepted the terms of surrender imposed by the Allied Nations and hostilities will now cease... Let us remember those whose lives were given that we may enjoy this glorious moment and may look forward to a peace which they have won for us."

At this year's ceremony, Councillor Alison Jones acknowledged the significance of the day, stating, "More than 17,000 Australians lost their lives in the war against Japan.

"Today, I want to take this opportunity to thank our current and former veterans for the sacrifices they have made, and continue to make, to ensure that we can enjoy the freedoms of living in this free and democratic country that we know and love."

Mackay RSL Sub Branch Senior Vice President and guest speaker on the day Col Benson, highlighted the legacy of Edward “Teddy” Sheean, whose heroic actions on the HMAS Armidale during a Japanese aerial attack are now legendary in Australian military history. Sheean’s decision to strap himself to his anti-aircraft gun and continue firing as his ship sank was an act of valour that ultimately cost him his life. His recognition with the Victoria Cross in 2020 solidified his place as one of Australia’s most respected war heroes.

President of the Mackay RSL, Ken Higgins OAM, spoke passionately about the importance of remembering the stories of those who served.  

“What a wonderful young fella who gave his life for the country, and a lot of these stories just get washed away in the wind,” Higgins said.  

“We need to be more vigilant about remembering all of these wonderful men and women that gave their lives for our country that served.”

Amidst formalities, a special acknowledgment was made to of one of Mackay’s oldest veterans, Louis Burley, who celebrated his 93rd birthday on VP Day. Burley joined the army at just 17 and served in Japan before later joining the Navy. Despite problems with his feet, Mr Burley says he is “fit as a fiddle” and is “feeling really good.”  

The ceremony included traditional elements such as the ‘Last Post,’ played on the violin by Kayla Lovern, a 13-year-old student from Mackay State High School. The rouse was then played on flute after a minute of silence. At 11:00am, a fly-past by the Mackay Tiger Moth Museum added a sedimental touch, paying tribute to the servicemen and women of WWII.

Lest We Forget

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A Tiger Moth flew past at 11am
93-year-old Louis Burley with President of the Mackay RSL, Ken Higgins OAM
The flags were raised by Cliff Turner and Steve Haidle, who both served in the NAVY. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara  
Crowds of civilians and soldiers fill a city street in Sydney during celebrations for VP day, 15 August 1945. Photo Source: Australian War Memorial 
On the left is H1646 Stoker Class II Thomas (Mick) Sheean and on the right is H1617 Ordinary Seaman (OS) Edward (Teddy) Sheean, RAN. Photo Source: Australian War Memorial 

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