One of the many casualties of the COVID-19 pandemic has been Anzac Day. But perhaps a new generation of volunteers could change that.
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Last year, at the height of the pandemic and associated lockdown, we took a whole new approach to honouring the men and women who have stood up for our country and our freedom in combat.
We headed to the end of our driveways at dawn and lit candles in remembrance. It was a disappointment for many, but surprisingly heartwarming for anyone who took part in the driveway vigil.
In 2021 it was hoped there would be a return to normal Anzac Day commemorations across the country with dawn and morning services, and Anzac Day marches in cities and regional areas.
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Sadly this will not be the case in many areas as services are cancelled or significantly scaled back.
It is a situation that has frustrated and angered many who have long honoured the Anzac Day tradition by attending services.
Some people have argued the changes are disrespectful to the many men and women who fought and died for our freedom. Others have referenced activities that continue to go ahead at near full capacity such as sporting events.
The passion and frustration is completely understandable.
But perhaps there is a need for perspective and the passion should be directed toward lobbying for a new approach to organising Anzac Day services.
You see these very special services, in regional areas in particular, are organised and co-ordinated, in most cases, by the more senior residents in the community. The volunteers are members of RSL sub-branches, people who have fought for our country in combat, some of the many people we honour on Anzac Day.
These volunteers are now some of the more vulnerable people in our community who seek to take extra precaution in situations such as a pandemic.
They are also people who are least inclined to understand the technological requirements of ensuring public safety when wanting to hold an event that could attract many hundreds, even thousands, of people. They may not have the know-how or confidence to do what is required for covid-safety for a large gathering.
Perhaps the time has come for a new generation of volunteers to step up to ensure the tradition of Anzac Day continues well into the future.
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