Commemorating Anzac Day

Anzac Day holds special meaning across our organisation and this year proved no different as we paused to reflect on the service and sacrifice of veterans, both past and present.

Many of our homes and villages hosted commemorations including wreath laying and a minute silence to honour our veteran clients, residents and team members.

A highlight was the Dawn Service and Gunfire Breakfast at our Fernhill home and retirement village in Caboolture. The event was held in conjunction with the local RSL sub-branch and received strong support with nearly 1,800 guests in attendance, including our Chairman Pat McIntosh.

It was a powerful reflection of Fernhill’s proud legacy of veteran care and strong ties to the wider Caboolture community, having first opened its doors to World War I veterans on 4 May 1950.

Gemma Larrett, Retirement Living Sales Operations Manager, said it was an honour to be part of such a memorable event that brought together so many different groups including residents and team members from Fernhill’s village, residential home and Village Hub.

“It was incredibly moving to witness the sea of people, united in deep reflection as the morning light broke. It was even more special to share in the moment with our veteran residents and local sub-branch members,” Gemma said.

Hosting an event of this scale required careful planning and Gemma said it was a true team effort behind the scenes.

“In the lead up to Anzac Day, we formed a committee of team representatives from retirement living, the Village Hub and residential care,” Gemma explained.

“Everyone played an important part in the preparations and running of the day.”

For Kerrie Tomkins, Village Hub Coordinator, the opportunity to be part of the committee was a privilege as she was able to offer valuable insights and advice that were based on personal experience.

“I’m an ex-servicewoman and a member of the Caboolture-Morayfield and District RSL sub-branch, so it was really enjoyable to help foster relationships between our organisations,” Kerrie said.

“By taking a collaborative approach we created an event to remember for all involved – the atmosphere on the day was amazing.”

Featured image: Our Chairman Pat McIntosh, who has been recognised for his distinguished 27-year military career, attended the Fernhill Dawn Service.

Main image: The Caboolture Anzac Day March starting at Fernhill.