How Mackay will mark 75th anniversary of VP Day

Tomorrow commemorates 75 years since Japan’s unconditional surrender ended World War II in the Pacific

Mackay residents celebrating victory over Japan on August 13, 1945, outside of the former Lambert's Economic Stores. Picture: Contributed

TOMORROW marks 75 years since Japan’s unconditional surrender to the Allies ended World War II in the Pacific, known as Victory in the Pacific Day.

But like with Anzac Day, COVID-19 has changed how residents pay their respects to those who have served for our nation.

RSL Pioneer-Fitzroy-Highlands District deputy president John Edwards said there would be no official gathering or ceremony for VP Day this year.

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But Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson will instead post a special address on the council’s Facebook page on Saturday at 8am.

Two regular Daily Mercury contributors, Mackay Historical Society and Museum’s Steven Pritchard and Judy Stewart, also wrote a piece looking at how the region celebrated the victory back in 1945.

Mackay residents celebrating victory over Japan on August 13, 1945, at the intersection of Sydney St and Victoria St. The Jubilee Tree (pictured) is now at Queen's Park. Picture: Bob Camerons Collection

“Loud cheering was heard in Mackay streets” and there was carnivals, singing, dancing, fireworks and conga lines, they wrote.

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People also headed to the train station to welcome the troop trains.

To read the full story, see: 75 years since end of World War II in the Pacific .

If you are holding your own VP Day commemorations, we’d love to know more.

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