ANZAC Spirit in the Hawkesbury
The Hawkesbury has a strong military community , with so many locals currently serving , or having served , in the Armed Forces . Whether it be the RAAF , Army or Navy , there are many local families who live their lives based around the promise that one family member makes to Australia , its values , and its freedoms .
When individuals commit themselves to the loyalty of the calling , what they then endure once sent into battle , is unimaginable . The horrors of war are brutal and scar the mind for eternity . The very least that we can do as Australians , is honour that dedication and sacrifice on days like ANZAC Day .
It is with this focus , that I want to wholeheartedly thank the Hawkesbury community for turning out to this year ’ s ANZAC services in the thousands . Old and young alike , we woke early , marched down the street and stood to attention across a number of ceremonies . In each of these ways , we collectively honour the traditions and spirit of what it means to be an ANZAC and a Veteran .
Sadly however , I have to touch on an event that angered me to my core . On a day that is to be marked with respect , our local community faced the destruction and vandalism of a local statue , in a vicious attack which police believe was conducted at the exact time that around 5000 Hawkesbury locals , including myself , were gathered for Dawn Service at Windsor .
After the ceremony , I went to the site immediately and was appalled at such blatant disrespect . We actioned Council staff to clean the site and I thank them for their prompt attention . I firmly believe that if you have a point to make , there is a time and a place to do so . This was neither the time , nor the place and having witnessed the local community outrage since , I know the majority hold the same view as me , publicly condemning the violent act . Such sabotage is a criminal offence and I thank the local police for investigating the matter .
However , to end on a positive note , in addition to thanking the community for participating in such huge numbers , I want to thank the Windsor and Richmond RSL sub-Branches , the Kurrajong District War Memorial Club , and an array of local community groups , for their efforts in organising many services across our community . The ANZAC Spirit in the Hawkesbury is well and truly thriving , and it is something we should all be so proud of .
Lest we Forget .
Until next time , Sarah
THE HAWKESBURY INDEPENDENT theindependentmagazine . com . au ISSUE 156 // MAY 2023 21