Community invited to attend the annual Service of Remembrance at St Christopher’s Chapel
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Local residents and visitors are invited to gather in Nerimbera on Sunday 7 July to celebrate and remember the strong bonds of friendship forged between our region and US Forces during WWII.
The annual event is held at the picturesque location of St Christopher’s Chapel, built by the visiting US Army in 1943, which is the only structure of its kind still standing in Australia and was designated as a World Heritage site in 1992.
Acting Mayor Nigel Hutton said Council is honoured to have the Chapel located within the Shire, as the unique, rich historical story behind the construction of the Chapel makes it a significant landmark for our region.
“When stationed within the area in WWII, the US Army (542 Engineers, Ship and Shore Battalion) began construction on what is now known as St Christopher’s Chapel which provided recuperating soldiers with a place of solace, reflection and worship,” Cr Hutton said.
“This service gives the community the opportunity to reflect on the history of the chapel and those who were stationed there during WWII, and those soldiers who supported our country.
“We’re also thrilled this year to have The Band of The 1st Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment (1 RAR Band) from Townsville, performing in the beautiful native grounds of the Chapel at 1pm ahead of the service, which we strongly encourage the community to come along and enjoy. The 1RAR Band served in all theatres of war with the battalion up until the end of the Vietnam War.
“With military exercises like Talisman Sabre (training of US and Australian forces) still taking place biannually in our region, our Independence Day celebrations highlight the importance of continuing the unity between the two forces.
“Following the 1 RAR Band performance, the ceremony will commence at 2pm and I encourage people of all ages to join us this Sunday and help celebrate a significant part of both the Shire and Rockhampton’s history.”
For more info, please visit www.livingstone.qld.gov.au or phone 4913 5000.