General News
17 November, 2025
Stawell pauses to remember
THE Stawell community was out in big numbers last Tuesday morning to witness a moving Remembrance Day ceremony at the Avenue of Honour memorial. Ominous-looking rainclouds miraculously parted to let rays of sunshine through for the 11am ceremony, which was led by Stawell RSL sub-branch president Geoff Reading, who fellow RSL volunteer Russell Smith said did a magnificent job.
“I always give the old bugger a pat on the back, he’s been through some pretty tough times the last two years and he’s soldiering on, as they say,” said Mr Smith.
“It’s very meaningful, he’s holding the flag up, there’s no doubt about that.
“He’s one of the veterans out of Vietnam and he’s trying to keep the memories going, as well as respect the older guys who Remembrance Day means a lot to.”
Mr Smith was humbled to see a strong turnout for the event, including a few of the elder statesmen of the Stawell RSL sub-branch who have contributed so much over the years.
“It was a great day, good turnout and very happy to see the kids there, and it’s a lovely venue there, the Council have done a good job with that,” he said.
“You don’t always see the oldies there, it was good to see people like Coxy (Graeme Cox) and Des (Des Leonard), they both did a lot of work in the last 10-15 years to keep the place going.”
A wide cross-section of organisations, community groups, and individuals laid wreaths at the memorial as part of the ceremony, which features traditional elements such as The Lord’s Prayer, a performance of The Last Post by Richie Dowling and was brought to a close with The Australian National Anthem.
Remembrance Day marks the anniversary of the Armistice which ended World War I, which saw guns fall silent over Europe at 11am on November 11, 1918, following four years of relentless fighting.
On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, Australians pause to remember the people who have served in all global conflicts, and honour those who paid the ultimate sacrifice during their service.
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