BERRI Barmera Council has stepped in to ensure Barmera will stage an official Anzac Day event this year.
The traditional dawn service at Barmera’s Garden of Memory cemetery had been cancelled for the second year in a row, with the Barmera and Berri RSL sub-branches attributing the decision to coronavirus-related restrictions and requirements.
However, the event has earned a reprieve – of sorts.
Rather than a dawn service, the two sub-branches will join forces with the council to host a commemorative service at the Garden of Memory at 7am on Anzac Day, Sunday, April 25.
The commemorative service will be held in lieu of the traditional dawn service, and be easier to marshal, with signing in, contact tracing, hand sanitiser and social distancing among the COVID-19 measures in place, with assistance from the council.
Berri Barmera Council Mayor Peter Hunt described Anzac Day as “the most important day on the Australian calendar” and said it was important a service was held locally.
“When I saw the article in the paper that the dawn service wasn’t going ahead, I knew council had to do something,” he said.
“We wanted to do whatever we could to assist both RSL branches because not only is Anzac Day important to them, it’s important to all Australians.”
Berri RSL president Chris Ware said although he would miss hosting a traditional dawn service, he was grateful for the council’s assistance to make the commemorative service feasible.
“I would’ve loved having the traditional service at 6am but it would be hard supervising people in the dark and making sure they follow protocols,” he said.
“Instead, we have encouraged people to take part in ‘light up the dawn’, which involves people standing in their driveway with candles and torches at 6am.
“After that, they can join us all at the Garden of Memory.
“Having the council support both RSL branches has been truly incredible and we are all so grateful.
“We missed having the dawn service event last year and this is the closest we can do under the circumstances.
“It will be nice seeing everyone come together.”
Mr Ware said he and Barmera RSL president Jim Rolfe expect a healthy crowd.
“We have six schools and all up about 30 community clubs and businesses putting down wreaths this year,” he said.
“We have more wreaths this year than we’ve had in the past.
“It’s great to see so many people paying their respects and acknowledging those who served our country and sacrificed their lives for us.”
To pre-register for the service, visit the Berri Barmera Council chambers, Berri Barmera Library, Barmera Public Library, Berri RSL sub-branch or Barmera RSL sub-branch.
Tickets can also be sourced online via the Berri Barmera Council website (https://www.berribarmera.sa.gov.au) or via Eventbrite (https://bit.ly/3a67Y5o).