109 May 2022 Merrijig community Newsletter

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After everyone returned to the memorial from watching the riders approach along Mt Buller Rd with the sunrise as a backdrop, it became very obvious there was another huge crowd attending the service. Some estimates being close to 400. The address on the day focussed on the role of Australian women in two world wars. The address was written by Professor Kate Warner, in 2017 who was the then governor of Tasmania. The talk was delivered by local resident, Louise Jacob and long-time visitor to the area, Meredith Chesney. Before the address began, the gathering was told of the five local women - nurses, who voluntarily enlisted during World War 1 - all demonstrating great courage and sacrifice. The women were Ethel Lillian Forsyth of Maintongoon, her sister Connie, Mabel Julia Justice of Jamieson, Agnes Wotherspoon King of Mansfield and Marjorie Elizabeth Ritchie of Delatite Station. There was a Merrijig woman, discovered during researching for the book ‘About Merrijig’ in 2004, who was determined to be part of the war effort in WW1. She was Mrs A Poolman and she served in the ‘Voluntary Aid Department’ driving motorized ambulances, the report showed. In part, the speech delivered included: - “The Australian Services Nurses National Memorial was established to honour the collective efforts and sacrifices made by Australian nurses in all areas of combat and service life since the Boer War. It acknowledges the harsh truth that, although nurses were guaranteed protection under the Geneva Convention, many experienced physical danger and, like the nurses on Bangka Island, were killed. In academic historian Madeleine Turner’s words: “By articulating the danger and deplorable conditions in which nurses worked, the [National Memorial] effectively dismantles the myths of their ‘safe’ wartime experience that have trivialised their significant role in war. It is a version of history where the activities of men are not more important than those of women. Nor are horrific war experience memories exclusive to men. Women have shared a part and their memories allow the definition of hero to be reworked.” We need to honour the distinctive contribution nurses made. When the nurses on Radji Beach knew death was coming they did not scream or whimper. As they walked into the sea Matron Irene Drummond called out, “Chins up girls, I’m proud of you and love you all.” In conclusion: alongside our remembrance of the brave male soldiers, sailors and airmen of the war, let us diligently remember their women colleagues, the nurses in particular who lost their lives, and let us also remember the contributions made by women in the services, in the Red Cross, the land army and in the factories. Lest We Forget Those interested in her talk, which is very moving, can go to https://www.govhouse.tas.gov.au/sites/default/files/anzac_day_service_2017_.pdf?fbclid=IwAR1c0O3YMQELCgvAIy1pNe_M81ssN2ihhMikw5-zKhY_Cn2U-kaCWUwGp0 After a welcome to all from Merrijig Public Hall president, Des Dunn, he handed the service over to hall Vice President, Adrian Lawrence. Adrian invited those wishing to lay wreaths to come forward. Wreaths were laid by Merrijig Primary School, community members and groups. The primary school students laid a wreath from Cindy McLeish MP, and Mr Rho Fry laid a wreath on behalf of Federal Member for Indi, Helen Haines. The ANZAC dedication was given by hall committee grants co-ordinator, Georgie Deyell, followed by the address from hall secretary, Louise Jacob. The memorial committee co-ordinator, Mr Peter Howarth, lead the gathering in prayer. The traditional Ode was recited by Merrijig School Captain, Quinn Harwood and Vice-captain, Stella Brandl. 6 6
7 Merrijig's Ed Adamson, played The Last Post, and The Rouse during which the flag was raised to full mast by Laurie Jacob, followed by instrumental versions of the Australian national anthem, Advance Australia Fair and that of New Zealand, God Defend New Zealand. In conclusion, Des Dunn sincerely thanked those involved in putting the day together. Special mention to Eric and Liz Siewert, from Gone Riding, and his team, who each year provide the Gunfire Breakfast for as many as would like to join in. Des also thanked John and Denise Findlay, for preparing the site for the day and to Kane Lovick for maintaining the memorial site throughout the year. Des also thanked the police, St John Ambulance for attending, all those who took part in the service, all the riders for participating co-ordinated by Jacquie Pollard, and the hall committee who provided logistical support for traffic management, kitchen staff and so many other behind the scenes tasks like the sound system. SOME FUN FACTS ABOUT THE GUNFIRE BREAKFAST 20 dozen eggs 20 kgs of bacon 30 loaves of bread 196 slices of cheese (have to order more next year!) an estimated 250 breakfasts served. Awesome service from Eric, Liz and the team. Photos by Helen Goldsworthy Left – The laid wreaths and set flags from the lead riders. Right –“Standing guard” – Donated by CAOS Concepts of 9 Crosby's Lane, Mansfield, Jacquie Pollard, who organizes the riders, said “Another great, successful Merrijig Dawn service once again with a terrific turn out of horse riders to honour our ANZACS and the animals that fought and the many that never returned home.” She went on to say, “I’d like to thank the Police, CFA and St John's Ambulance for all your great assistance, which without their help this parade would not be possible up Mt Buller Rd with so many riders.” Jacquie concluded by saying “I look forward to seeing all the riders and support people again next year. Thank you.” Then she mentioned, “Thanks to everyone that took photos as well.” 7
Page 1 and 2: 1 Merrijig Community Newsletter May
Page 3 and 4: 3 May Calendar ◄ April May 2022 J
Page 5: 5 Above “As Dawn Breaks” Left -
Page 9 and 10: 9 The first reveals my Anzac's name
Page 11 and 12: 11 That last day in October, back i
Page 13 and 14: 13 Mountain Cattlemen’s Get Toget
Page 15 and 16: 15 Alex’s Dad Jokes. … My broth
Page 17 and 18: Should you be unable to attend the
Page 19 and 20: 19 CFA News From Anthony Wakeling W
Page 21 and 22: 21 Adele’s Radio Play finally get

109 May 2022 Merrijig community Newsletter

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