Sunday afternoon 23 April 2023 was the Beaconsfield Anzac Memorial Service held at the Beaconsfield War Memorial in Woods Street. The service is always held on the Sunday before Anzac Day and has been held every year since 1999, except in 2020 due to covid restrictions. We acknowledge the late Tony Rushton who inaugurated this service. His wife Dulcie was at the service this year.
There was good weather and great support from the community and supporting groups.
Piper Andrew Spiering led the march from Beaconsfield CFA to the War Memorial. The service began with a welcome by MC Graeme Taylor, President of the Beaconsfield Progress Association. The Casey Choir and Cranbourne Salvation Army Recorder Ensemble accompanied the singing of God Save the King and the National Anthem. A call to remember came from Beaconsfield CFA and prayers were read by Pastor Duncan Becsi from Beaconsfield Baptist Church. Casey Choir sang two special items ‘Winds of Peace’ and ‘Grant Us Peace’.
Cr Brett Owen read the Memorial Address McNaughton Family Story written and researched by Penny Harris Jennings. It was a special day to have members of the family in attendance.
Mayor Cr Tammy Radford read details of the Beaconsfield Servicemen who were represented by relatives from the area and some at the service. Eric Chaplin, President of Upper Beaconsfield RSL, read the servicemen and women’s names from Beaconsfield from World War I and World War II. Wreaths were laid by local groups and relatives. Mr Chaplin read the ‘Ode to the Fallen’ and led the Last Post and the Rouse and the flags were raised by the 1st Beaconsfield Scouts.
Thank you to everyone involved in organising and participating in the service and to Cardinia Shire for providing a Festivals and Events Grant.
