General News
17 November, 2025
Dimboola gathers for Remembrance Day
A SMALL crowd gathered outside the Dimboola RSL on Tuesday morning for a short service to honour Australians who paid the ultimate price in the pursuit of peace and freedom in war.
Delivering a meaningful and appreciative tribute for Remembrance Day was president, Charles Rees, with some assistance from Pam Hubbard and trumpet/bugle player, Barry Whitehead.
“We gather to remember all those who have represented, volunteered and served in our armed forces ... since the First World War finished on this day 107 years ago,” Mr Rees began.
“Known as Armistice Day, we now call it Remembrance Day.
“We pause to reflect, respectfully, remember and honour those who have died and suffered from all wars, including peacekeeping operations.
“It is also the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.”
Mr Rees, whose grandfather served in WWI and his uncle in WWII, then gave a brief history of the significance of wearing the Red Poppy as an international symbol of remembrance.
Ms Hubbard then read the famous poem, ‘In Flanders Field’, written by John McCrae.
Later in the service, Mr Rees said, “I think it’s important to remember our duty is to never forget what this country has offered to peace throughout the world.”
“We have as a country, punched well above our weight in aligning ourselves with our allies for justice, right and liberty,” he said.
He then read the RSL Ode, which comes from ‘For the Fallen’, a poem by Laurence Binyon, followed by the additional words, “Lest We Forget”.
Mr Whitehead then played 'The Last Post', followed by a minute’s silence, then played 'The Rouse'.
At the conclusion of the service, Mr Rees invited attendees to a morning tea inside the RSL.
In speaking with the Dimboola Banner afterwards, he repeated his motivations: “We have a duty to remember”.