"It's a devastating blow" was how Parkes RSL Sub-Branch Secretary Paul Thomas described the decision by RSL NSW to cancel all ANZAC Day commemoration ceremonies and activities, either on ANZAC Day, leading up to or after the day.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The decision applies to Sub-Branches after the Board of Directors after the NSW Government's Public Health (Covit-19) Events Order.
Mr Thomas said he could understand such a decision as the risk to members and the public is too great not to act.
For state-wide consistency, and to avoid any ambiguity, the RSL NSW Board of Directors made the decision that all ANZAC Day activities including Dawn Services, Gunfire Breakfasts, dinners, marches and flag ceremonies are cancelled.
The RSL NSW Board of Directors also resolved to allow the continuation of state-wide planning for the conduct of fundraising associated with ANZAC Day or other local activities.
The Parkes RSL Sub-Branch and the Parkes Shire Council, whilst disappointed that the event has been cancelled, are united in advising the general public that they could celebrate the day by visiting one of the memorials and paying their respects not only here in Parkes but at its surrounding towns.
In Parkes alone there are memorials at Memorial Hill, the Cenotaph in Cooke Park, St George's Angilican Church as well as War Graves at the Parkes Cemetery.
Thomas also thanked the Parkes Shire Council, all Parkes Schools and members of the Parkes RSL Sub-Branch for their assistance and help during preliminary planning for the event.
For further information contact Paul Thomas on 0427 624 468 or by email to parkesrslsb@outlook.com.au
