SINCE the installation of memorial plaques recognising local servicemen and women who served in all wars, and also two startling WW1 statues by sculptor John Brady, Memorial Park in Seaspray has been a poignant and attractive venue for the annual Anzac Day service.
Numbers over the past years have been increasing; in 2023, there were around 250 in attendance under a sunny blue sky.
The service, commencing at 11am, was prepared and conducted by Kaylene Wheeler, the president of the Seaspray Ratepayers Association.
Wellington Shire Councillor Marcus McKenzie addressed the gathering, while Stuart Courtney – caretaker of the Seaspray Caravan Park and tireless worker in the town – delivered the Ode.
Defence service representatives in attendance included Flight Lieutenant Rick Stoffels, Corporal Shakira Anderson and Able Seaman Kashaan Anderson.
Members of the Golden Oldies, a group of local women who have met weekly over the past 30 years for companionship and games, performed the flag-raising ceremony with the help of members of the Seaspray Surf Life Saving Club.
Mother and son, Rebecca and Jack Reid, performed a poem entitled “The Poppy”.
The children from the Seaspray Primary School assisted Mrs Sue Kennedy in a vocal performance of the Anzac Day version of “We Are Australian”, with special commemorative lyrics written by Bruce Woodley of The Seekers.
The Seaspray Fire Brigade vehicle and members were also in attendance, completing the cross-section of the community who contributed to the commemoration.
The crowd was most appreciative of the work put into the preparation of the service and departed with comments such as “best service ever”, “we’ll be back next year” and “a wonderful community event”.
