Mayor Message – Mayor Liz Schmidt – Remembrance Day 2018

This Remembrance Day is especially significant being the 100 year anniversary of the Armistice that ended the First World War.

In the lead up to the 11th of November, Council has been working with community groups to contribute to the commemorations.

Clay poppy making workshops were held over the past couple of months and these clay poppies will enhance the Remembrance Day activities in our region. I want to thank those that participated and thank Shelley Burt, who led these workshops. 

This week City Hall has a horse on display, on loan from the Ambulance Museum display, with knitted purple poppies. This is to remember the animals that died during conflict. 136,000 Australian horses were sent aboard, with only one returning. (Australian War Memorial - Sandy (Major General Sir William Bridges' horse) updated 15/01/2018)

An additional 2000 knitted and crocheted poppies are on display near City Hall. I want to thank everyone who donated poppies for this display. It’s a wonderful display and helps to highlight this year’s commemorations. 

Other displays include special red lighting which will illuminate Wherry House, City Hall and Council’s Administration building. White crosses, provided by All Souls Saint Gabriels School, and plastic poppies made by the Joey Scouts will be displayed at the RSL. 

Some of these activities have been made possible by the Queensland Anzac Centenary - Spirit of Service Grants Program and this project is proudly supported by the Queensland Government.

More than 1,500 men and women born in Charters Towers enlisted for service in the Great War.

This Remembrance Day we pause and remember those who have served in the armed forces.

I want to encourage the community to attend the commemoration service to pay their respects. Lest we forget.

- Councillor Liz Schmidt | Mayor

OGG 9 November, 2018