The 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month holds a special significance in Australia. Separate from ANZAC Day, 11 November is marked in solitude. It is a day reserved to remember the totality of human effort that contributed to an armistice ending the first World War.

Its true essence is the advancement of our national identity, as well as our right to freedom and the rule of law.

Over 200 people joined veterans and their families on 11 November at the Bankstown War Memorial and courtyard to mark the community’s Remembrance Day Service.

President of the Bankstown Returned & Services League (RSL), Terry Corcoran, opened the ceremony with an Acknowledgement of Country and a keynote address.

He emphasised the significance of Remembrance Day as a way to keep the spirit of Australia alive and ensure that the courage, resilience and camaraderie is celebrated.

In his address, he explained the need to maintain camaraderie with others so that Australia remained united as “one country, under one flag.”

Among those who attended the event were Mayor of Canterbury-Bankstown Bilal El-Hayek, Councillor George Zakhia, Myra Lucas, Treasurer of the War Widows Guild, the 307 Squadron Air Force Cadets, Scott Dickson, CEO of the Bankstown RSL, and representatives from the Korean Veterans Association.

The Remembrance Day Address was led by Gary Bryant, a retired soldier and father of two. Gary described the significance of Australia’s national service and military contribution since World War 1.
“We (Australia) have been engaged in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations all over the world. As a peace-loving people, we see it as our responsibility to contribute to the right to freedom and the rule of law for all people.”

He encouraged the community to get behind ex-servicemen and ex-servicewomen, as well as local RSLs, sports clubs and community organisations.

As a community, we keep this part of our national identity alive as we join our veterans and their families on Remembrance Day to pay tribute to those who have served our country. By taking part in local efforts supported by Bankstown RSL – whether on the soccer field or at a weekend brunch – we keep this spirit alive in the way we connect with others.