Cairns crowds gathers at cenotaph on Remembrance Day

The Cairns community honoured those who went before us and made the ultimate sacrifice during WWI at the cenotaph on the Esplanade. Read the wonderful tributes.

Several hundred people gathered at the cenotaph on the Cairns Esplanade to pause, reflect and remember at 11am at the Remembrance Day celebrations on Friday.

Many were in uniforms while more wore medals in honour of their own service or in memory of a relation who had served.

Among those serving in the Australian Defence Force, were veterans and their families, all there to celebrate those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Navy personnel from HMAS Cairns made up the catafalque party who stood guard at the cenotaph during the ceremony and a lone piper played as a gentle breeze made the flags wave.

The Cairns RSL sub branch hosts the annual Remembrance Day commemoration ceremony at the Cairns cenotaph, marking the end of World War I and the allied soldiers who paid the ultimate price in every battle since. Picture: Brendan Radke

Master of Ceremonies Cairns RSL board member Rob Lees said it was wonderful to see people of all ages attend.

“It’s always good to see past and present members of the Australian Defence Force here today,” he said.

“As well those who could be in the future.”

Tony Branbridge, Wendy McCrae, Dawn Hartman and Roy Hartman stand to attention for the playing of the Australian national anthem. Picture: Brendan Radke

HMAS Cairns Commander Alfonso Santas said he was proud to see such a great turnout.

“It is wonderful to see those here today who are carrying on the legacy of those who went before us,” he said.

World War II veteran Val Veivers and former National Serviceman Neville O'Brien lay a wreath together. Picture: Brendan Radke

World War II veteran Val Veivers said she was thrilled to attend with former National Serviceman Neville O’Brien.

Cairns RSL board director Rob Lee was the master of ceremonies. Picture: Brendan Radke

Ms Veivers joined the Women’s Auxiliary Australian Air Force as an aircraftwoman in 1944, when she was only 18.

“It’s very good to be here today,” she said.

Originally published as Cairns crowds gathers at cenotaph on Remembrance Day