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ANZAC Dawn Service 25 April 2012
2000 brave souls tested the early morning chill to attend a magnificent Service at St Marys – by far the largest gathering at the Guns. The added facility of a large video screen enabled all who wished a close-up view of every moment. Gary Fizzell MC’d the Service and was ably supported by the St Marys Brass Band, along with Ken Bradley on Trumpet, Andrew Iverson (from the St Marys Pipes & Drums) on Pipes and the Sunset Station Singers. 5CER again provided a skilful & resplendent Catafalque Party, while 21ACU provided enthusiastic cadets to form a Colour Party to present the ANZAC focus with both nations flags on banners. Special guests included David Bradbury, Doug Cameron, Tanya Davies, Mayor (& Patron) Greg Davies, patron Jackie Greenow and Allyson Gavin amongst many other keen supporters of the Sub Branch. All were invited to breakfast in the club after the Service.
Last 4 photos courtesy of St Marys Mt Druitt Star, Fairfax Community Newspapers, Photographer Mike Sea
ANZAC Sunday 22 April 2012
Our 2012 ANZAC Sunday march and Service proved a very successful commemoration of ANZAC. A good representation of Sub-Branch members in the march were well supported by an excellent showing from local schools and community groups as well as our own Youth Club and both St Marys bands which performed magnificently.
The march finished at Victoria Park where past-President, Gary Fizzell, MC’d the Service. State Member for Mulgoa, Tanya Davies, presented a though-provoking Address around the theme of "freedom to …", focusing on encouraging vision in our youth based on achievements of the passing generations.
The rain held off nicely to allow the Service to be completed before many returned to the RSL Club for refreshments and a chat.
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Report on Anzac Sunday Service
The weather held off to provide a glorious day for our annual Anzac march and Service. Numbers appear to be steadily growing, with a large representation of both Sub Branch members and others from the general community - it was pleasing to see the continued community support. The march, under our submarine commander, took us on an improved route down the Great Western Highway to the surprise of those looking in the opposite direction! Gary Fizzell guided the Service well & David Bradbury presented a welcome Address. Many Service, ex-Service, schools and other community groups, as well as a large number of individuals, laid wreaths and tributes. The Catafalque Party from 5CER did a marvellous job and we were well supported by the two bands and choir. The day was complete when all were invited to join together over a light meal and drink at the RSL Club after the Service. Thank you to all who took the time to join in this important commemorative Service.
Please mouse over photos to view captions.
(Click on the thumbnail to see the image full size)
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Report on Boer War Day Service
In conjunction with the annual National Boer War Day commemorations on Sunday 29 May, a special Service was conducted at St Marys RSL Sub Branch’s Remembrance Stone in the grounds of St Marys RSL Club.
Commencing at 11.00am, and on this occasion, with special involvement from Year 10 students from Colyton High School Trade School, the Service commemorated the events of 1899 -1902 in South Africa – the first conflict to involve our Nation – a conflict which provided the origins of Australia’s military culture and military history, where around 20,000 Australian men and women volunteered and around 1,000 Australians lost their lives to battle or disease.
Resulting from great assistance from our own Sub Branch members, the tremendous involvement from the Colyton High School Trade School students, and the significant support from the local media, over 120 turned out for a successful Service.
Several descendants of Boer War veterans attended & participated in the Service. One descendant, Janet Jones, placed her Grandfather’s medals & photo against the stone, along with a Pith Helmet from the War. These became our point of focus for the Service.
Generally, the Service went well. The Year 10 students performed admirably, forming a smart Catafalque Party, providing escort duties throughout, and sharing the Master of Ceremonies duties/announcements. A well-researched Address was given by our Education Group Co-ordinator, Vin Cosgrove, who drew some interesting & thought-provoking parallels, for example, between the actions of our first VC winner in South Africa, John Bisdee, and those of the first Australian VC winner, Mark Donaldson.”

DOWNLOAD Order of Service, DOWNLOAD Brochure.
RSL Sub-Branch Contacts:
President - Gary Fizzell 0418 114 976; Secretary - Ron Kelly 02 9623 3334;
Welfare - John Foeken 0409 329 688, Uwe Schoenherr 0414 063 957, Terry Burns 0407 834 499.