Bargara Dawn Service attendees express displeasure at RSL two-up, breakfast cancellation

The public who attended the Bargara Dawn Service expressed their displeasure at the cancellation of two events which had been a stable of Anzac services in the region for almost three decades.

Attendees at the Bargara Dawn Service expressed their ‘disappointment’ and ‘disgust’ with the RSL for withdrawing financial support for the two-up game and Gunfire Breakfast that has traditionally followed the service.

Many of those who braved the rain and wind to attend the 2023 Bargara Dawn Service were left with a bad taste in their mouths over the axing of the traditional game of two-up and Gunfire Breakfast after 27 years.

The events, normally held in the Bargara Hotel after the Dawn Service, were cancelled when the Bundaberg RSL Sub Branch pulled its financial support.

The key organiser of the events, Councillor Greg Barnes, denounced the RSL’s decision as “un-Australian” and “against the Anzac spirit”.

Vince King, an attendee of the Bargara Dawn Service on Tuesday, said that the RSL’s decision was “disappointing”.

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“It’s a great shame, it’s bastardry in my eyes,” Mr King said.

“Here they are quibbling over a donation tin – it’s just so disappointing.”

Vince King, a veteran of 20 years’ service in the RAAF including combat experience in Vietnam, was left frustrated by the cancellation of the two-up game.

Mr King is a veteran of 20 years’ service in the RAAF, including combat experience in the Vietnam and postings in Malaysia and the United States.

In response to questions following the initial reports of the cancellation of the two events, the RSL said it was “fully supportive” of the Gunfire Breakfast and two-up events.

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“The Bundaberg RSL Sub Branch is fully supportive of all local commemorative activities to recognise and acknowledge service members past and present, including the planned Gunfire Breakfast following the Dawn Anzac Day service, and would be happy to hear from the Bargara Beach Hotel to discuss how they can work together for Two-up activities on Anzac Day, in line with State legislation,” an RSL spokesman said.

Sisters Jennifer Bavage and Megan Kelly were “disappointed” the events were cancelled.

“We know that the historical ties of two-up have a significant meaning to RSL members and the broader defence community, and would welcome a revised application from the Hotel for its Two-up activities on Anzac Day.”

Bargara local Megan Kelly said that while she did not usually participate in the two-up game, the events at the Bargara Hotel after the conclusion of the formal service contributed to an important sense of community.

“It’s a shame they couldn’t get it together – I thought it was disappointing for those who like to participate and I thought it was very well attended,” Mrs Kelly said.

“We didn’t participate but we loved to see everyone enjoying the time together; it extended this part of the ceremony and it brings everyone together.”

Bargara locals Christine and Alex Avery have been going to the Bargara Dawn Service since 1997.

“It’s an Anzac Day tradition,” Mrs Kelly’s sister, Jennifer Bavage added.

Alex Avery, who has been coming to the Bargara Dawn Service since its inception in 1997, was “disappointed” the events were not going ahead this year.

Councillor Greg Barnes said the RSL’s decision to withhold financial support was “un-Australian” and “against the Anzac spirit”.

“It was a good thing to watch, even if you didn’t participate,” Mr Avery said.

However Mr Avery’s wife, Christine, had a more moderate view, seeing the large crowds in attendance as a sign that the post-service events were not a significant drawcard.

“It’s been a part of the Bargara service always, but I’m pleased to see everyone came out regardless,” Mrs Avery said.

“The breakfast obviously wasn’t the main attraction – Gunfire Breakfast or not, it’s still a great day.”