Lest we forget: Remembrance Day services in Maroondah

The Maroondah community is being encouraged to take a moment on Remembrance Day on 11 November to reflect on the sacrifices of those who have bravely served our nation in wartime, and to the men and women who continue to serve in military conflict and peacekeeping operations around the world.

The local events will be held in line with Victorian Government Directions meaning all attendees will be required to check in using the Service Victoria QR Code. Please ensure you have already linked your vaccination certificate to the Service Victoria App.

The Ringwood RSL Sub-branch will be hosting a Remembrance Day service at the Ringwood Memorial Clocktower, corner of Maroondah Highway and Ringwood Street, from 10.30am, including a wreath-laying ceremony led by the sub-branch’s President, Vietnam Veteran David Jamison.

At Ringwood Town Square, a lone bugler will sound The Last Post before a minute’s silence at 11am.

The Croydon RSL Sub-branch will be marking the day with a Remembrance Day service from 10.45am on the James Stevens Memorial Lawn, Civic Place, Croydon, led by the sub-branch’s President, John Hexter, who will lay a single wreath.

Maroondah Councillors will attend both services to lay a wreath on behalf of the community.

Mayor of Maroondah, Cr Kylie Spears, said the events were an opportunity for the community to reflect on the courage and sacrifices of soldiers past and present.

“It is on Remembrance Day, above all other days, that we recall the women and men, who, through personal sacrifices, contributed to the evolution and identity of our country, Australia,” Cr Spears said.

“For those who are unable to attend in person, there are many ways we as a community can honour our veterans this Remembrance Day.

“Residents can tune into live services, including the official livestream of the service at the Shrine of Remembrance, spend a quiet moment in remembrance from wherever they are on the day, or make a donation to their local RSL,” she said.

You can also plant a virtual poppy in the RSL Poppy Appeal Remembrance Garden and leave a special message in commemoration of a loved one, as well as share your stories, thoughts and ideas on Remembrance Day and what it means to you. Money raised through the annual Poppy Appeal fundraiser will go towards funding vital services for veterans.

Poppies can be purchased from reception at the Ringwood RSL, which is open 10.30am to 5pm daily, and at Croydon RSL on Wednesdays and Fridays, 1.30pm-6pm.

For more information about Remembrance Day services and activities, contact the Ringwood RSL on 9870 6604 or Croydon RSL on 9723 1315.