Anzac Day 2021: Ringwood and Croydon RSL sub-branches plan marches and Dawn Services

The leaders of Maroondah’s two RSL sub-branches plan to push ahead with Anzac Day commemorations despite playing a waiting game for COVID-safe approval.

Croydon RSL president John Hexter says the sub-branch is forging ahead with its Anzac Day commemorations in 2021. File picture.

Maroondah’s RSL sub-branches are determined to go ahead with their traditional Anzac Day celebrations and not be held back by any coronavirus-related restrictions.

The Ringwood and Croydon RSL sub-branches are both planning short marches in each suburb on Sunday, April 17, and to hold Dawn Services at their cenotaphs on April 25.

The coronavirus outbreak cancelled commemorations last year, with only a short service held for Ringwood RSL sub-branch board members at the town’s clock tower.

Ringwood RSL sub-branch president David Jamison said his club submitted plans to the State Government for both events last month and were planning to stage them accordingly.

“We have to be sensible about it and comply within restrictions, but it (Anzac Day) is not something we believe should be set aside,” he said.

“We’re not quite sure how many people will turn up, but it’s important for us to recognise the contribution of our servicemen and women to the nation.”

Croydon RSL sub-branch president John Hexter said it was “progressing as normal” with its plans but still had to have talks with Maroondah Council.

Mr Hexter felt Anzac Day commemorations “must go ahead everywhere”.

“If it’s under 1000 people like we have, its not as serious as 100,000 people,” he said.

“We will follow the covid rules to the best of our ability … Anzac House is encourage sub-branches to have marches, and that’s what we’re going to do.”

RSL Victoria originally cancelled Melbourne’s Anzac Day march, but the decision was later overturned following a groundswell of community support.

It is now planning to have up to 5000 veterans take part, however, commemorations at smaller, suburban sub-branches are under a cloud.

Leader understands sub-branches had to apply to the State Government for permission to stage events using its covid-safe framework and guidelines.

Croydon state Liberal MP David Hodgett said sub-branches were “in the dark” on what they could do and urged the government to come out with clear advice.

“At a time when the Andrews Government is saying it’s safe to reopen nightclub dancefloors and have large crowds at festivals, it must find a way for us to remember our veterans,” he said.

“Many local communities often have well over 1000 people come together at Anzac Day events across the state — they must be given a clear way forward.”

Veterans Minister Shaun Leane and RSL Victoria have been contacted for comment.