Residents of Woodlea and members of Caroline Springs RSL came together on Sunday, April 21, to honour the memory of Allan Godfrey and all those who served in the Australian Defence Force in a poignant pre-ANZAC Day service.
The event took place at Woodlea Town Park, where participants walked the Aintree Walk of Honour, a symbolic pathway lined with more than 180 trees and 150 individual plaques commemorating Australia’s military history from the Boer War to the present day.
The Reflection Pond in the Town Centre marked the end of the solemn procession, where the community observed a minute of silence following the Last Post.
At the heart of the Aintree Walk of Honour stands an eighty-metre mural designed by Melbourne-based street artist Amanda Newman, depicting the faces of individuals who contributed to Australia’s military history. Among them is the face of World War II veteran, Allan Godfrey, who recently died on March 20, just days shy of his 101st birthday.
During the pre-ANZAC Day service, a special tribute was dedicated to Mr Godfrey, acknowledging his service both in the Australian Defence Force and within the Woodlea community.
Mr Godfrey’s military journey began at the age of 18 when he enlisted in WWII, starting in Darwin where he was stationed for more than a year. He then served in New Guinea, the Philippines, Borneo, and Malaya, where he played a crucial role in rescuing Australian prisoners of war.
In his later years, Mr Godfrey lived in St Albans with his great-grandchildren and remained an active member of the community, particularly within the Caroline Springs RSL. He generously shared his wartime experiences with others and took pride in participating in school visits and ANZAC Day ceremonies.
Woodlea project director Matthew Dean said Allan’s dedication to the nation during WW2, and his enduring presence in Woodlea’s community will forever be cherished.
“We are deeply saddened by Allan’s passing, and his legacy of service and camaraderie will continue to inspire us all. Today, as we gathered to pay tribute, let us remember Allan’s courage and sacrifice, and let us reaffirm our commitment to honouring those who have served our country,” he said.
