New format for Karuah Anzac Day commemorations

ANZAC Day commemorations will follow a new format at Karuah this year, following requests from local families and community groups.

Hosted by the Karuah RSL sub-Branch, this year’s event takes on a “Families and Community” theme.

The day will still begin with the traditional 6am Dawn Service, with the community invited to gather with RSL members at 5:45am.

Port Stephens Council Deputy Mayor Chris Doohan will give the address and chairs will be available for members of the community who are unable to stand.

“As tradition wreaths will be laid by members of the RSL sub-Branch and the community, including the local school children laying books donated by the Karuah RSL sub-Branch,” an event spokesperson told NOTA.

At the conclusion of the Dawn Service, a community breakfast will be held at the Karuah RSL Club.

At 9am all members of the community and RSL sub-Branch are invited to form up in front of the Karuah Public School on Bundabah Street to commence the Anzac Day March before a Family Service in front of the Club at 9:30am.

“By conducting its first daytime Anzac March in many years, the Karuah RSL sub-Branch is responding to the many community requests, so more veterans, school children, families and community groups can participate in the traditions of Anzac Day,” the spokesperson said.

The Anzac Day March will step off from Karuah Public School at 9:15am, making its way with flags and medals to the Karuah RSL Club carpark and Memorial Waterfall, where seating will be available for the public for the Family and Community Service.

RSL sub-Branch member Lukas Woolley will be the keynote speaker and 335 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets will be in support as the Catafalque Guard.

Roses, rosemary and poppies will be available at the service to be laid by all who wish to do so.

“Those families wishing to lay a wreath or rose in special remembrance of a relative or family member are encouraged to register at the Club reception or Karuahsb@rslnsw.org.au prior if they would like their name called out on the day,” the spokesperson said.

“This year marks the 125 year anniversary of the Royal Australian Navy and the Australian Army and while this an anniversary for the Australian Defence Force (ADF), it is the Karuah families and community that are the focus of this year’s Anzac Day Service.

“The Karuah RSL sub-Branch acknowledges that not everyone serves in the ADF, but everyone in the community knows someone in their family who has been a serving member of our Defence Force past or present.”