Mate’s of Andrew ‘Andy’ Dixon pay tribute

TOWNSVILLE’S veteran community is mourning the loss of one of their own, after a former 1RAR soldier has died.

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TOWNSVILLE’S veteran community is mourning the loss of one of their own, after a former 1RAR soldier has died.

Andrew Dixon served at the 1st Battalion Royal Australian Regiment as part of Bravo Company.

It’s understood “Andy” passed away on Tuesday night.

A friend close to Andy told the Bulletin he’s been left in shock over the passing of his mate who’d he’d been in regular contact with in recent times.

“Andy was a good friend of mine who lived around the corner from me,” he said.

“I had been assisting him with various issues for some time and this has hit pretty hard.

“Rest In Peace mate.”

Thuringowa RSL Sub Branch President Rocky Hema said the news has been met great sadness.

Townsville’s veteran community is mourning the loss of one of their own, after a former 1RAR soldier has died.

“It’s a great loss to the veteran community of Thuringowa,” Mr Hema said.

“He used to frequent the club and has friends who are part of our community so I know its affected a lot of us.”

Mr Hema said more information would be conveyed to sub branch members as it became known, including his funeral details.

The sad news comes as the veteran community is still reeling from the loss of Private Braiden Russell who was found dead in his room on Lavarack Barracks, just two years into his Army career.

An official register of veteran suicides and deaths with links to the ADF does not exist. It’s prompted the Pineapple Express to keep its own register where they have been paying tribute to fallen veterans by posting information of the deaths, with family permissions, to raise awareness.

The latest suicide figure is suggested to be 11 deaths since November 1.

If you, or someone you know is struggling help is available at www.openarms.gov.au or by calling 1800 011 046.

Originally published as Mate’s of Andrew ‘Andy’ Dixon pay tribute