WEATHER IMPACTS ISLAND ANZAC DAY SERVICE NUMBERS
Numbers at Anzac Day services on some of the Bay islands were down, thanks to a bout of wet and windy weather.
Particularly on Macleay and Russell Islands, the numbers weren’t quite what they have been in previous years.
The numbers at the Dawns Service on Lamb Island were on par, as were those for the unique Dusk Service on Karragarra Island.
On Macleay Island, for the first time in many years, Catholic Priest Father Jim Browne was not in attendance because of his retirement, and his role for prayers and hymns was filled by chaplain Kitti Schell.
Redlands MP Kim Richards read the Anzac Requiem.
Macleay Island RSL Sub Branch president Peter Laverty was the Master of Ceremonies and the Anzac address was made by Sub Branch vice-president Len Aldorff.
Students from the Macleay Island State School were exceptional as the Catafalque Party, with student Daisy Gemzik a highlight with the rendition of a poem dedicated to fallen Anzacs.
Many stayed behind for the Gunfire breakfast.
On Russell Island, two services were held, the Dawn Service at 5.30am and the Main service at 10am.
Christine Wisniowiecka was responsible for the event this year and there were great contributions from the Russell Island Singers, and an outstanding rendition from Piper and young Russell Island student playing the Last Post on his trumpet.
The Anzac address was given by RSL Sub Branch president Keith Velleman.
Anzac Day culminated on Karragarra Island for the unique and very different ‘twilight’ service.
And what a fitting end to Anzac Day it was with the sun setting on the glistening beach and glittering water.
Wreaths on the water is unique with this Anzac event, with the Karra islanders making use of their famous island beach and facilities for a twilight evening Anzac get-together to conclude this special day.
There was strong support for the Anzac services on Coochiemudlo and North Stradbroke Island.
• The Dusk service on Karragarra Island.
• The Dawn Service on Macleay Island
• Piper Gary Watts leads the march on Russell Island
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