Tara Murray
Sunshine RSL Sub-branch will host its annual Anzac Day dawn service this week after months of uncertainty.
With the COVID-19 pandemic leaving local RSL sub-branches unsure of crowd numbers and restrictions, it had been a wait and see game.
The Sunshine RSL Sub-branch will proceed with its normal dawn service, with some small alterations to how things would normally run due to COVID-19.
Sub-branch president Garry Collins said they were thrilled to be able to hold the service after not being able to hold one last year.
Last year was the 100th anniversary of the Sunshine RSL, which Mr Collins believes is one of the oldest in the state.
While they celebrated the anniversary before everything shut down, they didn’t get to mark the occasion on Anzac Day.
“We weren’t sure [this year’s service] was going to happen, but it looks like we will get there,” he said.
“Due to regulations we are limited to up to 1000 people with QR codes and it is being held in the carpark.
“There will be a dawn service with a 6.45am start, followed by an egg and bacon roll for a gold coin donation.
“The club will then be opened at 8.30am.”
The service will cap off a big couple of weeks for the branch, with volunteers spending time selling badges at local shopping centres.
Mr Collins said they had an eager group of volunteers who were keen to get back out in the community and sell the badges.
They started selling badges last week and will likely be selling them up until Saturday.
“The 2021 Anzac Appeal for the Sunshine sub-branch is raising vital funds,” Mr Collins said.
“We’ve got eager volunteers who are dedicated to getting into the community and not only sell the badges, but share their stories and experiences.
“We’re hoping the local community will again generously support the annual Anzac Day appeal.”
The funds raised will go towards paying for services and programs for veterans who need help, including assisting with medical bills.
Badges are being sold at Central West, Sunshine Marketplace, Brimbank Shopping Centre and through some schools.
The carpark at the Sunshine RSL will be open at 6am on Anzac Day ahead of the dawn service.
