South Eastern District Commemorates VE Day

Wendy Taylor, RSL Queensland State Deputy President, speaking at the service

Scott Mackie, RSL South Eastern District Executive Officer, ANZAC Day Parade Brisbane, and Facilities Officer of South Eastern District, said they hold an annual Brisbane based commemorative service.  

“Many hold services for the big milestone anniversaries like 25th, 50th and so on, but we’ve held a service for VE Day since 1985. I’ve done every year apart from 2020. None of us did in 2020.”

Kerry Gallagher AM, District President South Eastern

The commemoration included a wreath being laid by RSL South Eastern District President Kerry Gallagher AM, on behalf of the District and all its Sub Branches. 

“As a European, VE Day means a lot to me. It was where my ancestors fought, and I served in the British Army,” he said.  

“This year, the District had a service with approximately 30 people and the support of the ADF who sent personnel to conduct the flag party and catafalque party. Due to the weather we had to move the service indoors, constructing a temporary shrine for the laying of wreaths. 

“We also had a veteran guest of honour, Patricia Bochenska MBE. She is a blitz survivor who went on to serve in the Royal Navy, receiving the MBE for exemplary service to the Red Cross for over 50 years.” 

RSL South Eastern District commemorates VE Day every year

Victory in Europe – or VE Day – is marked on 8 May and commemorates the day World War II officially ended in Europe.   

The New Farm Allies Memorial honours personnel of allied countries including Poland, Greece, France, New Zealand, Great Britain, The Netherlands, and the USA.  

Scott, who served in the British Army and deployed to Bosnia and Iraq, has been involved with South Eastern District since 2017.   

“Being involved with RSL Queensland feels like a home away from home. We share a similar background, speak the same language, and recognise the same acronyms so it is very comfortable working with veterans and helping carry on the traditions of that culture,” Scott says.  

And they’re always on the lookout for locals willing to volunteer. 

Councillor David McLachlan, Wendy Taylor, RSL Queensland State Deputy President, and Darren Curtis.

“We require over 100 volunteers for the ANZAC Day parade, and out of that group a dozen or more volunteered again for VE Day. We’re always eager for extra hands to help.”  

With this in mind, the District will be organising an inaugural service to recognise the anniversary of the Victory in the Pacific in August on the Memorial Plaza in front of the Limbless Soldiers’ Building in New Farm. 

For more information on RSL South Eastern District and volunteer opportunities, please visit the RSL SED website.

Want to stay informed? Subscribe today and get the latest news, services, events and more direct to your email inbox.