WWII Gallery Unveiled On Remembrance Day

Families of the Pioneer Valley gathered to experience an extra special Remembrance Day this year, with a service at the cenotaph followed by an unveiling of Finch Hatton RSL’s World War II Honour Gallery.

With over two-hundred and fifty people in attendance from the local area and surrounds, the unveiling was a joint affair with RSL Life member David Oliver, RSL auxiliary Life Member Graeme Ware and auxiliary member Wendy Sievers all sharing in the honour.

The World War II Honour Gallery follows on from the sub branch’s World War One gallery which was opened in 2018. Both may be far from completion; however, the sentiment still stands as a remarkable achievement in admiration for our armed services.

With around seventy World War II veterans on the wall, it was time to open the gallery. There is an estimated forty or so others out there that are yet to be honoured and remembered.

The gathering was welcomed by President Tammy Sprott, who then handed over to the MC of the event Graeme Ware. As the instigator and driving force of the project, Wendy Sievers gave some background to the display.

Mayor Greg Williamson and Central Queensland District Deputy President John Edwards both acknowledged the importance of such projects, in maintaining the profile of our veterans who have served for their country and some making the ultimate sacrifice to allow all Australians the freedom we have been allowed today.

Finch Hatton RSL Sub Branch’s fundraising efforts over the years have been the primary source of support for such projects. The event was a momentous occasion for the Pioneer Valley in paying their respects as a community.

Taking place on Remembrance Day further signifies the importance of the unveiling, with this being a substantial victory for the Finch Hatton RSL Sub Branch which have gone to great lengths to organise the honour gallery project.

The branch is also grateful to the Department of Veterans Affairs and Central Queensland RSL District for supplying grants to provide much-needed capital to allow the project to take place.

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(Left to right) Ms Wendy Sievers, Mr Graeme Ware and Mr David Oliver unveil the WWII Honour Gallery

Onlookers from the community take in the newly-unveiled WWII Honour Gallery

Members of 122 Army Cadet Unit serve a gunfire breakfast to the community

The Mackay & District Pipe Band

Central Queensland RSL District Deputy President Mr John Edwards pays his respects

Photos supplied

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