Service to commemorate 80th anniversary of 25th Battalion’s Spring Bluff departure

A special commemorative service will be held at Spring Bluff on Saturday, March 19, 2022 to remember the 1000 brave soldiers who left the station at night on their way to serve in World War II.

The service marks the 80th anniversary of the historic day the Darling Downs’ 25th Infantry Battalion boarded trains at Spring Bluff railway station after marching from Cabarlah at the start of their journey to New Guinea.

Toowoomba Region Mayor Paul Antonio said the service would honour an historic moment for the Region.

“The departure of the 25th Battalion on St Patrick’s Day 1942 was a significant event in our Region’s history,” he said.

“It’s hard to imagine that 80 years ago this weekend, 1000 soldiers stood on the Spring Bluff platform, ready to fight for our country.

“More than 200 of the troops who departed from the Spring Bluff station that day did not return from the battles at Milne Bay (1942) and Bougainville (1945).

“This is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made many years before us, paving the way for our fortunate future.

“Our Region has such a rich history. It’s important we continue to remember and honour the significant events that shaped our country.

“Before the official service, the public is invited to join the march with members of our local Defence Force, retracing the steps of the brave soldiers of the 25th Battalion.”

The official commemoration service is open to the public and will be held at the Spring Bluff Station on Saturday, March 19, from 10am.

Anyone wishing to join the march can meet at Cronin Road at 8.45am.

Please note that the march is a Grade 4 walk, with a reasonable level of mobility and fitness required.

No pets are permitted on the walk or at the station.

For further information, please contact the Spring Bluff Railway Station Trust Management Committee on 4688 6883.