Motions

Remembrance Day

Ms HUTCHESSON (Waite) (11:01): I move:

That this house—

(a) recognises that on 11 November we commemorate Remembrance Day;

(b) acknowledges the significance of Remembrance Day in marking the end of fighting on the Western Front;

(c) expresses its profound gratitude to all South Australian men and women who have served in the Australian Defence Force;

(d) recognises the sacrifices made, and support provided by, the families of our veterans; and

(e) acknowledges the important role of the RSL and other organisations who support veterans and their families.

On the 11^th hour of the 11^th day of the 11^th month, on Monday just gone, we paused to commemorate Remembrance Day. This solemn occasion marks the end of hostilities on the Western Front in 1918, when guns finally fell silent after more than four years of brutal conflict.

The First World War, known in the early 20^th century as 'the war to end all wars', began in 1914. Australia's first significant involvement was in taking possession of German New Guinea and neighbouring islands in spring of that year, but the far better known is the unsuccessful campaign of the allied forces of Britain, Australia and New Zealand to take the Gallipoli Peninsula, which began in April 1915. Over months of intense fighting against the well-defended Turks, Australian forces alone sustained over 26,000 casualties, including 8,141 deaths.

As news of this horrendous toll filtered home, the nation went into shock. Then, during July and August 1916, the Australian infantry forces suffered more than 23,000 casualties in the Pozieres-Mouquet Farm battles in France. More than 7,000 of these deaths were through enemy fire. Australian troops also saw action in the Middle East.

In our community, the war memorials of Blackwood and Coromandel Valley list the names of men and women who were killed or died as a result of their involvement in World War I. Within our community there are many stories of the men and women who went to war. Some never returned, and some are honoured throughout the district by way of roads and streets being named after them, many from large legacy families within the area, such as the Winns, Magareys, Downers, Fergusons, Watchmans—there are many. Many soldiers were settled in Blackwood after the war.

I want to take the opportunity to speak about a few of our service people who made the ultimate sacrifice and never returned home from the front. I would like to thank locals Geoff Lock and Judith Liddemore for their ongoing research and will to ensure our service men and women are not forgotten.

Harrold (Jim) Sullivan was one of 10 children born to William Adams Sullivan and Harriet nee Woodings of Coromandel Valley and later Blackwood. He and his brother Herbert both enlisted, Harrold with the 9^th Light Horse. Sergeant Sullivan and a small group were captured by the Turks in August 1916. Another solider Private McKay was spared as he lay wounded and could not be carried off. The others were made to dump their gear and were marched away to prisoner camp. While being marched through snow without enough warm clothing, the men became ill and often died at various locations along the road in Angora. Their remains were never recovered. Sergeant Sullivan never returned home.

Soon after ANZAC Day in 2019, the Coromandel Valley & Districts Branch of the National Trust was delighted to receive an email via their website from the Australian embassy in Baghdad. The message came from a serving officer in the Australian Defence Force and concerned Sergeant Sullivan, as well as another local and honoured serviceman Percy Scroop. In fact, my sister used to live next to Scroop Avenue.

The officer, who had a strong interest in Australian military history, took the opportunity afforded by this posting to do some research, including visiting the memorials to the fallen and the cemeteries. Having found Percy's and Harrold's headstones, he went online to see if he could learn a bit more about these brave South Australians from my community, a search that led him to the 'Our Fallen' section of the National Trust's website.

Geoff Lock, who is a Coromandel Valley National Trust committee member, responded to the international inquiry and as the discussion proceeded received the following poignant information. Percy and Harrold were both unfortunate enough to be captured at the same time on 9 August 1916 in the Romani campaign. They were assisting a group of machine gunners when they were ordered to return to their lines. They were too far from their horses and were overrun and captured. Both died of disease working on the Berlin-Baghdad railway.

Percy died on 28 December 1916 of dysentery and Harrold on 11 February 1917 of enteritis. As they were not buried in the Angora cemetery, their graves were not marked. They were stripped naked before being buried, effectively eliminating any chance of identification when the war commission decided to consolidate various cemeteries into the Baghdad Cemetery in the 1920s.

At that time, all of the next of kin of the various soldiers were sent a letter explaining what was going on and were told whether or not their loved ones had been identified and moved, not identified but moved with a group of other unidentified soldiers and therefore buried near the spot, or not found at all. All soldiers, whether identified or not, would receive a headstone with the details on it and families were given the chance to have an inscription on the headstone.

The Kipling and Angora memorials spoken of were just a section of the cemetery that all headstones of the people they could not find were grouped into, so both Percy and Harrold have an actual headstone but their bodies are still in Turkey somewhere.

John Larnach Downer is another son of Coromandel Valley, born on 2 May 1898. He was the youngest son of Charles and Mary Downer of Coromandel Valley. Jack attended the Coromandel Valley Public School and then later Adelaide High School until mid-1913. On 5 January 1916, Jack enlisted, standing five foot six, or 168 centimetres tall, and weighing only 70 kilos. He had brown eyes and dark hair. Jack's enlistment details also stated that he had three years' military training in the cadet service. He was only 17½ at the time he enlisted. He was underage, but he was allowed to go through.

Assigned to D company of the 50^th Battalion as Private 1669, Jack embarked for overseas service on 11 April 1916. Jack's battalion joined the ongoing battle in mid-August 1916, taking part in an attack on Mouquet Farm, called Moo-Cow farm by veterans. Jack was killed in heavy fighting on 16 August 1916 and his body was never recovered. Jack's name is listed amongst the missing of the 50^th Battalion on Australia's War Memorial at Villers-Bretonneux in France. Barely 18 years old, Jack is the youngest local man to have died in World War I.

Remembrance Day holds profound significance as we reflect on the immense sacrifices made by those like Sergeant Sullivan, Private Percy Scroop and Jack Downer who have served our nation. It is also a time to honour those who have fought since, who have represented us since in conflicts and peacekeeping operations throughout our history.

Two years ago, I attended the ANZAC Day service in Coromandel Valley. It is a really special service and it is held after the dawn service. Whilst the community were laying their tributes, I noticed a young woman with her family visibly upset, grieving a loss that seemed very recent. I introduced myself and offered my sympathies. A year later, I met this family again when they joined our volunteer group for our parkrun; however, it was out of context so I did not put the two together. I had not made the connection until the following ANZAC Day when I saw her and her beautiful daughters again at the Coromandel Valley service. Yesterday I spoke to Charlotte and asked her if I could share the story of the person who her family mourn, and she has provided the following, and I quote her words:

Rifleman Stuart Winston Nash

1 Rifles

19/04/1987—17/12/2008

My brother passed fighting a war to keep us all as safe as he knew how. He was 21, had 6 months of training and was in the field for 6 weeks and fell at the age of 21.

These are the stories I was used to from my history lessons about the world wars, not the story I was expecting when my brother embarked on a journey to the 'mother land' to join the UK army and fight a war he maybe did not completely understand in Afghanistan. The war on drugs, the war against Terror.

I was told he would be fine.

I was told, 'War is not what it used to be, wars are fought with joy sticks and drones, not like the 'real wars' back in my day.'

Those that had regaled me with these tales, were silent when the news broke.

He was felled in the desert providing cover for his mates, trying to get them away from the sniper that took his life on that day. It may have been a different war, it may have been a different Allied Force—but you can take the Aussie away from his land, but an Aussie he was to his core, A Digger to the last.

He was known as 'Oz' by his fellow Riflemen on base, and he thrived in the military life—having been an air cadet in Sydney since he was 13, we knew the military was a path would one day follow.

Stuart brought both the larrikin nature we are known for, combined professionalism and sense of duty.

He aspired to progress through the ranks and had a knack for reconnaissance and sniper work. He was respected and his leaders knew he would go far. No one expected the outcome of that day.

16 years have passed since his death, but there are a few days that go past where a thought, or a 'what if' will cross my mind.

He would be 37, would he have children? Would my kids be catching up with him this Christmas?

I am sure he would never have expected me to be living in Adelaide and calling this great Southern state home—but it is here that I have felt his absence sometimes the most, as my daughter fights cancer again—I know he would have fought this battle by her side.

Most days I let the feelings wash over and pass, maybe a heartache, maybe a tear. However it is the days we set aside to commemorate our fallen that break my vault and the emotions spill.

It is here in South Australia that I feel his achievements have been most recognized, for it is a different scenario when an Australian fights for our Allied Team but under a different flag.

Here, we have been asked to join the celebration of achievements of all who fought, and we have commemorated those who fought, but left war upon their shield, not carrying it.

Here, we have felt most welcome at our Coromandel Valley ANZAC Ceremony, we have walked as a family in the parade in the city and he is commemorated at the war memorial in Two Wells for those who passed in the Middle East.

This recognition ties us and gives us a sense of stability when we are struggling to understand the why behind what happened. Time may pass, but the grief does not falter—we just learn how to sit with it and remember.

The Nash family have been battling and continue to battle. Their loss is shared by many who are family to service persons who pay the ultimate price, and their families pay the ultimate price of growing up without them.

So, to all our South Australian service men and women, past and present, we express our deepest gratitude. Your courage, dedication and selflessness in defending our nation and its values are beyond measure. We recognise that your service often came at great personal cost and we are forever indebted to you. We acknowledge your families. Those who support and sacrifice are often unseen but are no less significant.

The strength and resilience of these families, like the Nash family, form the backbone of our defence community. Organisations like the Returned and Services League play a vital role in supporting our veterans and their families. Their tireless efforts ensure that those who have served are not forgotten and receive the care and recognition they deserve.

As we know, Monday was Remembrance Day and it was a day for us to reaffirm our commitment to honouring the memory of the fallen and supporting those who continue to serve. I attended the Remembrance Day service at the Mitcham RSL, a touching service guided by President Kym Just and Padre David Covington-Groth from St Michael's church in Mitcham. It was lovely to spend time with their members afterwards. I then quickly headed up the hill to the Blackwood RSL where I joined members for their morning tea. As the patron of the Blackwood RSL, the members and staff are very special to me and it was lovely to spend the morning with them. I also got to meet two assistance dogs, who help their owners when they need a bit of extra care.

Our fallen are on the honour boards at the Blackwood and Mitchell RSL, the Blackwood War Memorial Hall and the Upper Sturt Soldiers Memorial Hall. I have the privilege of being on both those hall committees, and I see firsthand their commitment to their community and their commitment to keeping the story of our soldiers alive.

I am fortunate to know many returned service men and women—some I would consider very close friends, if not family—and I understand that whilst their watch is over the memories never leave them; within an instant they can be back on duty, in their minds. Many of our service men and women struggle to regain a normal life. Some have been in the defence force their whole lives, and it can be difficult for them to return to a normal life as a civilian without the strict control they experienced during their service.

Often these men and women are drawn to other opportunities to serve, and I proudly serve with them at the Upper Sturt CFS. I know that many of our brigades create a family around these men and women, and that can help them. At a time when there is much uncertainty in our world with the terror of Ukraine and the Middle East, we must remember the toll that war takes on families, communities and society. It should never be the answer.

I visited Canberra last year and took a tour of Parliament House and the War Memorial. On the tour of Parliament House the very knowledgeable guide told us that if you opened all the doors from the Prime Minister's Courtyard towards the War Memorial you can see all the way through. This serves as a reminder to those making decisions about the ultimate cost of war to our country, an emotional cost that no-one should have to bear, and the loss of lives that is the result.

This motion is incredibly important, and I look forward to hearing other member's contributions. I say 'thank you', thank you to those who have fallen and thank you to those who continue to serve.

Mr PEDERICK (Hammond) (11:16): I rise to support the motion:

That this house—

(a) recognises that on 11 November we commemorate Remembrance Day;

(b) acknowledges the significance of Remembrance Day in marking the end of fighting on the Western Front;

(c) expresses its profound gratitude to all South Australian men and women who have served in the Australian Defence Force;

(d) recognises the sacrifices made, and support provided by, the families of our veterans; and

(e) acknowledges the important role of the RSL and other organisations who support veterans and their families.

After four years of warfare and the deaths of millions of civilians and military, the guns on the Western Front finally fell silent at 11am on 11 November 1918. This marked the end of the First World War, and since then countries including Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the United States have been using November 11 as the annual day to commemorate those who lost their lives in battle.

The day was originally called Armistice Day due to the Germans calling for an armistice in order to secure a peace settlement. It remained as Armistice Day until the end of World War II, when the United Kingdom proposed to change the name to Remembrance Day. This was done so the day could be used to honour those killed in both wars.

There have been numerous other wars since the two world wars, and in Australia we have used 11 November to commemorate lives lost in all conflicts since 1918. Whilst the day has been around since 1918, it was not until 1997 that Governor-General Sir William Deane formally declared 11 November to be Remembrance Day and urged all Australians to observe one minute's silence at 11am on 11 November each year.

Giving some of the history and background to the armistice and the ending of World War I, at 5am on 11 November, in a railway carriage in France, representatives of the governments of France, Britain and Germany signed the document to end hostilities in the First World War. Six hours later, at 11am, the guns officially fell silent. The First World War was the first conflict that engaged people across so many countries.

At the time, recent advances in weapon development led to the most terrible conditions for those fighting. It was the first conflict utilising tanks and aircraft and the first with widespread use of the machine gun. Gas was regularly used. The fighting was often fought across open fields, where the only cover from fire were the shell holes that were made by the deadly artillery bombardments. There was widespread loss of life and many service personnel left with debilitating physical and mental injuries.

The first signs of the war ending were in October 1918 when an armistice between the Ottoman Empire and the Allies put a stop to the fighting in the Middle East. This was shortly followed by an armistice being signed between the Austro-Hungarian Empire and Italy.

Meanwhile, over in the west the German army was quickly collapsing and on 10 November the Germans on the battlefront were instructed by the government to sign the armistice with the Allies. This followed news that Kaiser Wilhelm II, the last German reigning monarch, had abdicated. At 5am on 11 November the armistice was agreed on and word was sent to the allied commanders that hostilities would be stopped on the entire front beginning at 11 o'clock on 11 November.

The signing of the armistice resulted in the complete demilitarisation of the German army, the evacuation of German soldiers out of France and Belgium and the immediate release of allied prisoners of war and returned civilians. Numerous armistices were signed in 1918; however, it was the armistice of 11 November that left a lasting global legacy as it symbolised the war on the Western Front ending after four long years.

Over one and a half million Australian men and women have served in eight major wars or conflicts since the start of the First World War in 1914. Over 100,000 have died, paying the ultimate sacrifice during battle since that time, and many others have died as a result of injuries sustained from battle. There were 416,809 Australians who enlisted in the First World War out of a population of less than 5 million. Of that number, 34,959 were South Australians. Sadly, 61,665 died during World War I, with more than 156,000 personnel wounded, gassed or taken prisoner.

The number of Australians who served in World War II was 993,000, more than double the number involved in World War I, and the number of South Australians who served was 54,660. Fortunately, to a degree, the number of casualties from World War II was considerably less, totalling 39,656. During the course of the Second World War over 30,000 Australians were taken prisoner.

Each Remembrance Day we take the opportunity to reflect on the wars that have shaped the world and commemorate those who have tragically lost their lives protecting our nation. Serving in Australia's armed forces is a serious commitment, and we thank those South Australians who are current members or who have served in the past.

We must also acknowledge the important work of the many ex-service organisations that provide support to our veterans and their families. Transitioning from military to civilian life can be a difficult period for veterans and their families, so it is crucial that they have access to quality support services to help them through this phase. In particular, we express our gratitude to the Returned and Services League (RSL) for the work they do year-round for our veterans and for their dedication to conducting Remembrance Day services.

I want to acknowledge a couple of the services I attended on Remembrance Day this past Monday. Military and Emergency Services Health Australia had a breakfast at the Convention Centre that was very well attended. Then Adelaide Cemeteries had a service, which I have not participated in before. It is a very moving service amongst at least 4,000 graves of military servicemen and servicewomen in the West Terrace Cemetery. It was a very moving service at which quite a few schools were present.

Just on another reflection, back at the end of 2010 I was privileged to have a battlefield tour through France and Belgium, and I would urge anyone who has not done this to do it because it is just shocking, really, to note that there are at least three and a half thousand war cemeteries in the area. One thing I did learn was that under the Versailles agreement the commonwealth got to have white headstones and the Germans got to have black headstones. This was something I only learned at that stage. It just shows the depth of what people negotiated during the armistice.

I want to acknowledge all those who have served or are serving. My family have served in various conflicts, including World War I and as recently as in Iraq. I take my hat off to all those people who have signed up for the defence of this great nation because they are all prepared to pay the ultimate sacrifice. No greater gift can anyone give their country. Lest we forget.

The Hon. G.G. BROCK (Stuart) (11:26): It is a great privilege to be able to speak on this well-deserved and well-written motion by the member for Waite and, in particular, to speak of the horrors that this war would have had not only on the people of Australia but across all parts of the world. It is my information that there were nearly 40 million military and civilian casualties, ranging from around 15 million to 22 million deaths and about 23 million military personnel, ranking it among the deadliest conflicts in human history. In addition to the human casualties, approximately eight million horses, mules and donkeys died during World War I alone.

We cannot imagine the trauma and the grief that would have been experienced across the world, especially as at this time there were not the instant communication opportunities that we have today. The not knowing and the worrying from families—mothers, fathers, brothers—and loved ones would have been absolutely terrifying.

Australia had just become a federated nation. Our population was around four million; however, we had over 416,809 who enlisted for service, with this being around 38.7 per cent of the total male population aged between 18 and 44. Of these, an estimated 58,961 died, 166,811 were wounded, 4,098 went missing or were made prisoners of war, and 87,865 suffered sickness. To my indication, that would represent around 76 per cent of the total of those volunteering. Of the 416,809 who enlisted or volunteered, there were 34,959 South Australians who were joined by 300 South Australian women in the Australian Army Nursing Service.

We must always remember that two failed referenda on the issue of conscription meant that war service in the Australian Imperial Force depended on volunteers. Prime Minister W.M. Hughes favoured conscription, but South Australia joined New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland in voting no to the proposal in the referenda held in 1916 and 1917. These votes produced the necessary majority for enlistment to remain voluntary. Recruitment drives following the failure of the second referendum produced a temporary increase in recruits, but the referenda themselves proved divisive and counterproductive. In 1918, enlistments were well below target.

One of the forgotten stories is how Port Pirie helped the war journey with a sizeable contribution during World War I, not just by the way individual men and women enlisted but, very importantly, through its industrial capability and social support for the cause among non-combat residents, and also through the fact that 53 per cent of all the allied lead for the munitions expended in the war came from Port Pirie. By 1917 the Port Pirie Smelter formed the one main source of supply of lead for all the Allies in Europe. Output had been increased from 74,000 tonnes in 1914 to more than 156,000 tonnes at that date.

Union delegates in Port Pirie and Broken Hill demanded better pay and conditions for workers, with the company capitalists reaping big benefits during the war. This was regarded in some circles as an insult to patriotism. At that time, the continuity of supply of lead for the Allies was of paramount importance. Threatening strike developments in Port Pirie were feared, for the Barrier—the Broken Hill men—were out on strike and making desperate efforts to get the Port Pirie workers out on strike with them.

On 21 August 1917 William Robertson, General Manager of Port Pirie Smelters, made an impassioned appeal to the unionists on the front page of the local newspaper, the Port Pirie Recorder, and also the North Western Mail. I quote:

Should we, in Port Pirie, fail to supply the lead, history may declare that the greatest war of all times was lost, not on the blood-stained fields of Europe, but in Port Pirie, where well paid, well-conditioned workman failed to see the path of duty.

An 'immunity from strikes' ballot on whether or not workers favoured an agreement that would give Port Pirie Smelter immunity from participation in any strike during the war was favourably passed by members of the Australian Workers' Union—the largest union concerned—in a vote of four to one against striking. The workers had refused to cease work, considering such action would have been detrimental to the best interests of the empire at such a critical period of the war.

The various unions at the smelter made their wartime collaboration official by attending a conference at BHP's headquarters in Melbourne where they signed a pledge not to take any strike action for the duration of the war. The Prime Minister of the day, Billy Hughes, stated that he was 'proud of the actions of the Port Pirie men'.

It should be stated for the record that at the height of the crisis the Broken Hill Associated Smelters Pty Ltd management had received many offers from women who wished to work and keep the munitions supply going. Many women also asserted themselves in demonstrations, having relatives at the front whose lives depended upon the continuous supply of the necessary munitions to beat down the attacks of the enemy.

By war's end the smelter men of Port Pirie had supplied more than 53 per cent of the total Allied war effort in lead, which I consider a remarkable achievement. My community is very proud of the sacrifices that not only volunteers from Port Pirie and their families but all people across our great nation and their families made to enable us today to enjoy our great freedom and lifestyle.

To remember those who made the great sacrifice, our community has a very well presented RSL. We also have great memories from all the various conflicts, plus our Memorial Drive where commemorations have been established for all conflicts from the Boer War right up to current activities for all services. The recent Remembrance Day was a great indication of the commitment from our community, where the schools, both private and public, came to represent and lay wreaths. The community itself was very supportive of that. The member for Hammond indicated he went to some of the services. I went to the Port Pirie one. The distance involved prevented me from going to Port Augusta, but I made an apology for that.

My family has had my late uncle, my dad, my late brother, and my younger brother all serve in the defence forces. Even though I was not in the defence force as such, I am a veteran and served in the army reserve for nearly 10 years. I am very proud of my family's history in volunteering or being conscripted for services to protect our nation.

I had the great privilege of seeing my granddaughter, Shae, speak at the Anzac Day service last year. This year my grandson, Jax, officiated at his Risdon Park Primary School service, where he facilitated and MC'd the program. He also had the great opportunity to lay a wreath at the Remembrance Day service at Port Pirie just last Monday.

Again, I want to acknowledge all the RSL clubs across all of South Australia. I want to acknowledge Legacy also and how they have looked after the widows and the families. I do not think we need to have any wars; however, I am very proud.

This is where Australians got their name, their great fighting strength and things like that. As with other members of this house, I am very proud of our returned services organisations out there. I pay tribute to those who have served in our defence forces, no matter whether they be the Navy, the Air Force or the Army, and also allied engineering services and so forth. At the end of the day, I pay tribute to them and to the current serving people across all of our nation. I look forward to attending more commemorative services in the future. Lest we forget.

Mr COWDREY (Colton) (11:35): I rise today to make a contribution on the motion brought to this house by the member for Waite:

That this house—

(a) recognises that on 11 November we commemorate Remembrance Day;

(b) acknowledges the significance of Remembrance Day in marking the end of fighting on the Western Front;

(c) expresses its profound gratitude to all South Australian men and women who have served in the Australian Defence Force;

(d) recognises the sacrifices made, and support provided by, the families of our veterans; and

(e) acknowledges the important role of the RSL and other organisations who support veterans and their families.

Other members have to this point provided some context to Remembrance Day and the reasons why on the 11^th hour of the 11^th day of the 11^th month we collectively, as a country, fall silent to recognise the contributions of those who have served us in active duty and sacrificed their lives for our country. Each and every year, the Henley and Grange RSL conduct a Remembrance Day ceremony.

In previous years, the ceremony has largely been held outside in the car park of the RSL but, due to a range of reasons, including the construction of the new Henley library that is occurring in the precinct just opposite the RSL clubrooms, for the last couple of years the service has been held inside. That has not taken away from the significance of that service and the attendance of the service, to be completely honest.

This year, I just wanted to run through and thank those members of our community who have contributed to the service as it was held over the last couple of years. The service has been expertly MC'd by Geoff Pierson, who has been involved through a number of community organisations and he does that job very well. Reverend Christa Megaw from the Henley Fulham Uniting Church that sits just opposite the RSL clubrooms as well, provides her services through the Lord's Prayer and the remembrance prayer as well.

One of my favourite parts of the shift that we have seen, in particular over the last 10 to 20 years, is a concerted effort to involve young people and school-age students in both ANZAC Day services and Remembrance Day services to ensure that those younger people within our society, who perhaps have not been exposed to the same level of history in regard to how our nation ended up with the freedoms and democracy that we enjoy today, have the opportunity to, as best as possible, familiarise themselves with the history of our country and to also be provided with an opportunity to recognise those contributions that we have discussed.

The main speech for the ceremony was provided by Lieutenant Colonel Nicholas Barletta. He did a tremendous job outlining both his service but also the service of others to our country. Malcolm Whitford, the President of the RSL at Henley and Grange, then recited the Last Post before of course we had the minute's silence at 11 o'clock.

One of my favourite parts of the Henley and Grange service every year is that from time to time the RSL organises to have a guest speaker after everybody has enjoyed a couple of minutes to grab themselves a beverage and perhaps partake in having a little bit of a light refreshment. This year the address was provided by Greg Stanford whose father Ross was one of the original Dambusters. In telling that story, he had quite a collection of memorabilia that had been entrusted to a local down at Brighton, I believe, who had shifted all the memorabilia from his father into the club for the day. It was quite a sight to see.

He began by providing the back story of his father's service, not in the military at first, but his dedication to his first love which was cricket. He told a fantastic story about his dad making his first-class debut. He had been quite a gun cricketer in the Fulham Gardens area as he was growing up and had played for the West Torrens District Cricket Club, and certainly Greg himself and his father, Ross, shared that passion for that club.

On his first-class debut versus Tasmania, he came in a couple of wickets down and happened to walk into the centre of Adelaide Oval to join none other than Sir Donald Bradman. He told the story that Sir Don nudged a couple of balls around to keep him off strike to perhaps try and ease some of the nerves of the debutante at the other end. He faced his first ball and was so excited, he nudged it just a couple of metres down the pitch and ran himself out for a duck in his first game. He has this fantastic photo of the old scoreboard at Adelaide Oval with Sir Donald Bradman, I think, who made his highest ever first-class innings of 369, but the surname Stanford sits above that with a golden duck next to it.

He was very proud of his father, both in what he achieved through his sporting career but also through his service as one of the original Dambusters. To tell the story of the service that was required by the pilots as part of that group, the requirement was essentially 20 service flights to go and drop the bombs. Each time that they returned from a mission they would come and sit at tables in the mess hall, and they may have left with 20 tables of flight squadrons but usually it was not 20 who returned. Despite that, and despite knowing actively the risk he was taking on, his father continued to amass more than 20 or so flights above what was required of his service.

One of the things that struck me more than anything was just how proud Greg was of his father. Obviously understanding that legacy and the work that had been done, he was recognised—and rightfully so—with a level of award both through the military award system and also through the Order of Australia medal which was something that he held personally in very high regard—so to see the log book, the flight uniform, the other bits of memorabilia and the photos that came along with his dad's service.

One of the other little anecdotes was that there were two pictures side-by-side and, of course, the uniform itself sitting on the table. Greg mentioned that his dad had a photo when he left for war at 20 or so years old fitting into that uniform, and then a photo at 80 wearing the same uniform. It is a pretty impressive feat for anybody to be still fitting into the same uniform at that stage too.

It was a fantastic job by the Henley and Grange RSL, one of the most popular RSLs in suburban Adelaide. They are just nudging over 400 active paid-up members at the moment so to the whole board and to Malcolm the president, thank you for the job that you are doing in providing opportunities for those who have served, or those who have connections through family who have served to both come down to the RSL on regular occasion to perhaps have a beverage, but on those more important times, to provide the significant recognition and service that justifies the dedication and commitment and sacrifice that was made by those in our local area.

I also this year thank Indy Rose's florists, who were kind enough to provide the wreath that I placed on behalf of the community during the service. Again, like all members in this place, I recognise those who have served our country. They do a fantastic job. Lest we forget.

The Hon. A. PICCOLO (Light) (11:44): The community and schools across the region hosted Remembrance Day ceremonies on Monday, honouring the sacrifices made by those who have served and died in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.

I was able to attend a touching ceremony at Gawler & District College, while my electorate staff members also paid their respects at ceremonies at Mark Oliphant and Trinity colleges, with other schools in Gawler hosting events including Evanston Gardens and Gawler East primary schools. I was heartened to witness the respect and reverence shown by young people as they honoured those who have served our country. Seeing our young people taking an active role in these ceremonies gives me hope that this legacy will continue to be passed down through the generations. In her address, Gawler & District College principal, Angie Michael, remarked that:

Remembrance Day is not just a date on the calendar; it is a symbol of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

She went on to say:

It is through education that we learn not only about the battles fought on foreign lands, but also about the enduring human spirit that strives for a better, more harmonious world.

She went on then to say:

Let's not only remember those who have lost their lives, but also think about the responsibility we have to protect the freedoms they fought so hard for.

Student leaders Sable and Jai outlined the history behind Remembrance Day and read For The Fallen by Laurence Binyon and junior school students and I laid wreaths at the service. Special guest, former corporal in the Australian Infantry from the 7^th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, Stephen Lockwood, also addressed the students on how his time serving taught him how we need to come together and help each other at times of need. Mr Lockwood said:

You see the bravery and resilience of the people who are in the middle of the conflict, and it reminded me that courage isn't just about fighting, it's standing up for what you believe is right and doing what's required.

Mr Lockwood has served in a number of conflicts overseas, including peacekeeping conflicts. He went on to say:

While the big war may be over, we still need to strive for peace every day.

That is a message I hear over and over again on Remembrance Day and at ANZAC Day services. He then told his students:

You are the future and the ones who will make decisions on how the world works—even if you're not soldiers.

The Gawler RSL sub-branch also held their own Remembrance Day service at Pioneer Park, where I laid a wreath alongside other special guests and students from Gawler & District College, Xavier College and Immanuel Lutheran School. President of the Legacy Club of South Australia & Broken Hill Incorporated, Legatee Robert Eley, and Gawler RSL President, Major (retired) Colin Wardrop, ran the proceedings with fellow past and present service men and women in attendance alongside Gawler Riverside Church leader, Darren Dwyer, who conducted a prayer. The message for the day was that:

We stand united as a community to honour and remember those who have served.

The Gawler RSL service is a powerful reminder of the importance of remembering our history and those who have shaped it, including those right here in our region who have served and continue to do so.

Mr TELFER (Flinders) (11:48): I rise today in support of this motion to acknowledge Remembrance Day, a very solemn and important day on our calendar. One hundred and six years ago at 11am on the 11^th day of the 11^th month, the guns fell silent on the Western Front after more than four years of continuous bloodshed. World War I came to an end after the signing of an armistice and from that day forward what is now known as Remembrance Day was referred to as Armistice Day.

Following the horrors of World War II, 11 November became the day to remember all those who made the supreme sacrifice, serving their country, and from that day on it has been known as Remembrance Day. In 1997, Governor-General Sir William Deane issued a proclamation formally declaring 11 November Remembrance Day, urging all Australians to observe one minute's silence at 11am on 11 November each year to remember those who fought and died for our nation in all conflicts.

Remembrance Day can sometimes be overshadowed by ANZAC Day but it is an important day in its own right, and I am pleased that this motion provides the opportunity in parliament to be able to acknowledge the significance of that day.

The Australian contribution to war has been considerable. More than 1½ million Australian men and women have served in eight major wars and conflicts since the start of World War I in 1914. Some of this service has been here at home, but as we know a lot of it has been overseas. Over 100,000 have died during battle since that time and many others have died as a result of injuries sustained from battle.

Each Remembrance Day we take the opportunity to reflect on wars that have shaped the world and commemorate those who tragically lost their lives protecting our nation. Serving in Australia's armed forces is a serious commitment and we thank those South Australians who are current members and those who have served in the past. We must also acknowledge the important work of the many ex-service organisations that provide support to our veterans and their families—the hardworking volunteers who also provide the means for us as communities to maintain connection with the important heritage these places represent.

I want to acknowledge the RSLs in my electorate where there are seven sub-branches: Ceduna, Streaky Bay, Cummins Yeelanna, Tumby Bay, Kimba, Cowell and Port Lincoln. These RSLs hosted services on Monday to commemorate this significant day to honour these men and women who left these regional communities in service for our country and many who did not return, leaving these small communities decimated for decades with a dearth of fit and often strong young men, and frequently families with multiple siblings either all lost to war or some returning having left their siblings behind on foreign soil.

I had the privilege to attend this year's service in Port Lincoln. I was honoured to lay a wreath on behalf of my constituents. I want to give my personal thanks to the Port Lincoln RSL and President Gary Clough, Secretary Lee Clayton and the many veterans and volunteers for a moving and poignant service on Monday morning, with the participation of many of our local veterans as well as the wider community. As has already been mentioned, it is so encouraging and a real privilege to be able to see the schools from around our state participating in these services on this very special day, and they were there to remember and commemorate the service and sacrifice.

The community of Port Lincoln had also come together in what began as a heartfelt concept by a small group of local artists and has blossomed into the deeply meaningful community-driven Poppy Project—a tribute and expression of respect to the service men and women of Eyre Peninsula. The tradition of wearing poppies on Remembrance Day originated from a poem by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae about the thousands of poppies growing across the battlefields of the Western Front, specifically Flanders Fields.

Over the past several months local community members have been coming together to create beautiful ceramic poppies representing the enduring legacy of those who have served. Led by local artist Julie Aldridge, these ceramic poppies have been meticulously crafted by artists, community members, alongside students from Navigator College and St Joseph's School.

The project saw the involvement of the Textile and Quilters Group, under the guidance of Nola Samuel, who have created stunning textile poppies in a beautiful expression of community unity. These handmade poppies were installed at the Eyre Park War Memorial in Port Lincoln for the Remembrance Day service this week. They had the assistance of the local Port Lincoln High School Clontarf Foundation to have this very visible poignant reminder of the sacrifice that has been made. Those who have seen the display or the photos of it would all agree that the installation served as a powerful visual tribute to the deep respect and admiration our community holds for our veterans and the Port Lincoln RSL.

The Poppy Project was made possible with the support of the City of Port Lincoln—and I thank and acknowledge the CEO Eric Brown as well as Mayor Diana Mislov, who spoke a few words on Monday as well about her connection and her deep respect for the sacrifices that have been made—as well as Country Arts SA, Julie Aldridge and Nola Samuel, as I said, and the enthusiastic contributions of the local schools, artists and community members.

The community's passion for the project is a testament to the ongoing support of the RSL. As I said, specifically in Port Lincoln, with this project, they continue in their tireless efforts in support of returned service men and women, supporting them, the men and women who made it back, but also honouring the fallen. A heartfelt thank you goes to all those who have contributed their time, talent and energy to this meaningful tribute.

We stopped on Monday at 11am. We paused to remember these men and these women who made the ultimate sacrifice for the things we value as a society here in South Australia and in Australia as a whole. We should never forget that sacrifice. Lest we forget.

Mr BELL (Mount Gambier) (11:56): I rise to support the motion from the member for Waite and thank her for bringing it to this place. It is essential we take time to pause, acknowledge and remember the brave men and women who risked their lives to defend our freedoms and uphold the values we hold dear. Remembrance Day provides us with an opportunity to honour the sacrifices, reflect on the service, and ensure that the lessons of war remain forever present.

This is where the role of the RSL and other organisations that support veterans and their families becomes crucial. Since its founding in 1916, the RSL has been committed to veterans' physical, mental and social wellbeing. It has evolved into so much more, playing a central role in preserving the memory of those who served through commemorative events like Remembrance Day, Vietnam Veterans Day and ANZAC Day, while also championing veterans' rights and welfare. The RSL fosters support among veterans and their families, providing a network of understanding, connection and support.

Our Mount Gambier branch of the RSL, South Australia's oldest, recently celebrated 107 years of service. Leading this branch is President Bob Sandow, whose dedication was officially recognised with life membership earlier this year. Bob joined the RSL management committee in 2011, served as vice president from 2013 to 2014, and has held the role of president ever since. As a former member of the state RSL committee, editor of the monthly sub-branch newsletter, and a recognised military historian in Mount Gambier, he has made a significant contribution to the organisation and to our community.

In addition to his RSL work, Bob is a committed volunteer in numerous community organisations and was awarded the Premier's Certificate of Recognition for Outstanding Volunteer Service in 2022. He currently serves as secretary for the South-East Legacy group, supporting veterans' spouses and children, and is an active member of the Royal South Australian Regiment Association, where he has served as president of the South-East branch for three years and secretary for eight.

Bob's community spirit extends beyond the RSL. In 2007 he walked the Kokoda Track to raise funds for cystic fibrosis, and he participated in the Sandakan Death March in 2000. His other roles include serving as patron of the Mount Gambier BMX club for eight years, being a board member of Heritage Industries for 15 years, including two as chairman, CEO of the Western Border Soccer Association for four years, and past president and patron of the Mount Gambier Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Bob is a passionate advocate for community involvement in the RSL, particularly focusing on engaging the next generation to ensure the preservation of memories, traditions and, most importantly, lessons. Through school visits and tours of the local museum—guided by dedicated volunteers Ian Summers and Peter Bruhn—students gain a deep appreciation of our history.

This year marked the 20^th anniversary of RSL members visiting McDonald Park Primary School for a Remembrance Day service, a tradition that has now evolved to see students leading this service, from planning the wreath presentation to reciting the Ode of Remembrance. Bob also advocates for Remembrance Day to honour not only veterans but also all first responders, who risk their lives to protect and serve others. A poignant reminder of this is the upcoming anniversary of the death of Brevet Sergeant Jason Doig, a Lucindale police officer killed in the line of duty last year in the state's South-East.

This year's Remembrance Day service in Mount Gambier was once again strongly supported by our community, a reflection of the local spirit of remembrance and respect. Pastor Dave Sigley led the ceremony, with school students and 612 Squadron Air Force Cadet Christopher Mossford-MacGregor performing the last post, and teacher Graham Roulstone reciting the ode. The formal proceedings concluded with a flyover of the Royal Australian Air Force Boeing P-8A Poseidon aircraft and the presentation of the Tony Casadio medal awarded to Tenison Woods college students. The day closed with a lunch hosted by the Mount Gambier RSL Women's Auxiliary.

Remembrance Day is not just about the past but about promoting unity and respect within our community today. Through our shared remembrance, we express gratitude, support those who continue to serve, and inspire future generations to carry forward the spirit of courage, sacrifice and dedication embodied by our veterans and first responders. May we continue to uphold these values, honouring their legacies with pride and respect. Lest we forget.

Ms O'HANLON (Dunstan) (12:01): I rise in support of this important motion moved here today to mark Remembrance Day. I speak with young people at the forefront of my mind. On Remembrance Day we remember all the brave men and women many years ago, and still today, who stood up to protect our country and the people we love. These are soldiers, sailors, aviators, nurses and other helpers who worked hard and sometimes gave their lives to keep us safe and free.

Some people, maybe some younger people, might wonder why we wear red poppies. After the First World War over 100 years ago, red poppies started to grow on the fields where the battles had been. They became a symbol, something we can look at and remember the people who were in those battles. When we wear a poppy, it is like saying, 'We remember you and thank you.'

Rather than try to remember everyone, it is sometimes better to think about an individual who is no longer with us. Today I would like to ask us to remember a 21-year-old South Australian soldier, Sapper Jamie Larcombe, who was killed by enemy fire in Afghanistan in 2011. Jamie was doing his job clearing the path for other Australian soldiers to make sure they were not killed or injured by enemy mines as they moved through rugged terrain. Jamie is survived by his parents, three younger sisters and his girlfriend at the time.

I also reflect on the experience of finding my husband's great-uncle's grave in 2016 in Bray-sur-Somme in north-eastern France—the Western Front, as it is known. We drove around the countryside for several hours, taking in the site of the many, many small but beautifully attended gravesites dotted about the countryside. As the member for Hammond said, there are quite literally thousands of gravesites across this part of France and Belgium. It gave me such a profound sense of the scale of the loss of life and the bravery and importance of the Australian and allied soldiers who died there.

We found his grave and stood taking in the poignance of the moment. His name was Lieutenant Alfred Gordon Farleigh MC. He was in the 33^rd battalion, 1^st AIF, and killed in action on 22 August 1918. My husband shed a tear, perhaps reminded of the loss of the war he had most recently returned from in Afghanistan, and laid his own unit shoulder patch from 7RAR and a cigar at the base of the cross marking the grave. The day was icy cold, but that somehow seemed appropriate to the sights we saw that day.

We also visited the Australian War Memorial at Villers-Bretonneux and the Newfoundland Memorial at Beaumont Hamel, extraordinary in their intact state and the fact that in some places the trenches of each side were only about 10 metres apart. I never forget how I felt that day and the sense of history it gave me, and the enduring respect I have for those soldiers—those thousands of young men and women—who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting our values and our way of life.

At the 11^th hour of the 11^th day of the 11^th month people all around Australia, and in other countries too, pause and are silent for one minute. This minute of silence is a way to honour those who have sacrificed for us and to think about peace. Even if it is just for a short time, it is a moment to reflect on how important it is to look out for one another and work together to make the world a better, kinder place.

I was reminded of this as I laid a wreath at both the Remembrance Day service at the Cross of Sacrifice in Klemzig conducted by the Payneham RSL, and later at the St Peters Soldiers' Memorial where a plaque was unveiled in recognition of the local men and women of the former town of St Peter's who fought and died in the Second World War. I commend both the Payneham RSL and the staff of the City of Norwood Payneham and St Peter's and the St Peter's Residents Association for giving both these events the gravity they deserve.

Remembrance Day is not just about history. It is also about learning how to be brave and kind like Jamie Larcombe. Those who served and fell showed us how important it is to care for each other and to stand up for what is right. We can honour their memory by doing the same in our own lives, by helping others, being good friends and standing up for what is fair. So as we wear our poppies and stay silent for a minute, let's think about those who have helped make our world safer and more peaceful and let's remember that we, too, can make a difference every day by being kind and looking out for one another. Lest we forget.

Mr PATTERSON (Morphett) (12:06): I also take the opportunity to speak about Remembrance Day here in parliament. Of course, it recognises Armistice Day which happened on 11 November back in 2018 to mark the end of World War I. That was a war where many countries fought, including those soldiers from Australia—in fact, over 450,000 Australians served or enlisted in World War I, which represents about 10 per cent of the population.

The war itself was horrific, the first industrial war that occurred with over 60,000 Australians being killed and 150,000 being wounded or gassed. Armistice Day was a cause for people to reflect and, at the time, to make the point that this should be the war to end all wars. Unfortunately we know that is not the case and we have since had continuing conflicts, being World War II, then Korea, Vietnam and, more recently, in Afghanistan. Each year we hold Remembrance Day it gives us a time to reflect on the sacrifice of those who served defending our nation.

We are finding now many of the World War II veterans who served are reaching 100 years, even some beyond, so there are not too many of them left. Just this year, we had Chook Fowler, who lived in Somerton Park, die. He was, I think, 102 and he served this country well. It just tells the story of that phase of our history going, but Remembrance Day gives us the opportunity to not forget their service.

My grandfather served in World War II. He has since died. He served in the Royal Australian Navy. Initially he was stationed over in England, defending between the English Channel and the Irish Sea, and then he came back to Australia after the Japanese threatened Australia through the fall of Singapore. My grandfather Len Parsons survived the war, thankfully. It is also a time to reflect on how history can affect the heirs of these soldiers, and that they were able to come back alive and start a family and a life here. Of course, World War II veterans will be handing over the baton to Korea and Vietnam veterans, and we see more and more ceremonies conducted by those service personnel.

In Morphett, there are two ceremonies conducted. The Plympton Glenelg RSL conduct their ceremony at Moseley Square which means quite a number of people are able to attend, it being in such a prominent place. I attended that ceremony last year. This year, I attended the ceremony held by veterans at the William Kibby VC Veterans Shed; they conduct a ceremony at the Michael Herbert Memorial Garden.

The William Kibby VC Veterans Shed is on Kibby Avenue and is named after William Kibby VC, who lived in Glenelg and served in World War II in the Army. He fought in the Battle of El Alamein in northern Africa, fighting against the Italian and German Afrika Korps led by their general, Erwin Rommel. At that stage, the Axis forces were dominant and had not suffered defeat in battle. Fortuitously for the Allies, the Battle of El Alamein—basically a tank and army battle fought in deserts—was able to turn the tide, defeat the Germans and give light at the end of the tunnel for those serving against the Germans.

William Kibby himself was killed in action during that battle, charging and single-handedly capturing a machine gun nest. He was shot after that and was awarded the Victoria Cross posthumously. The William Kibby VC Veterans Shed is, of course, named after him. Glenelg North itself is steeped in military history, with a lot of the street names in that area being named after either Victoria Cross recipients or Military Cross recipients. Examples include Shannon Avenue, named after David Shannon who was in the Air Force in World War II; Mattner Avenue, named after Edward Mattner who served in World War I; and McCann Avenue, named after William McCann who also served in the AIF in World War I.

As I said, the ceremony was conducted at the Michael Herbert Memorial Garden in Glenelg North. The memorial garden is named after another serviceman, Flying Officer Michael Herbert, who was also from Glenelg and who served in the Air Force. While flying in Vietnam on his 199^th mission, his plane went down. It went off the radar and was lost, and he was presumed killed along with the crew. It was not until April 2009 that his plane was found, which led to his remains being recovered and brought back here to Adelaide. Subsequent to that, this beautiful garden was named after him.

Remembrance Day itself was a very sunny day held in the garden, which has a beautiful tree that provides shade for everyone in the crowd. It started off with year 5 and year 6 students from St Leonards Primary walking from the nearby school down to the ceremony. They lined up either side of the entrance to the garden to form a guard of honour. The entrance to that garden has an arch with the inscription 'We will remember them', which is so apt, of course, and fitting for Remembrance Day.

All the guests assembled in the garden, including all the students from the nearby Baden Pattinson kindy who came along to learn about our history. The ceremony then commenced. We had two St Leonards Primary School leaders walk through the guard of honour with an Australian flag, and following behind them was a catafalque party made up of cadets who were students between year 7 and year 11 from Immanuel College. Each cadet held a lance topped with a yellow and blue flag, which are the school colours. The catafalque party walked through and stood vigil around the William Kibby VC Memorial Garden. The garden is in the shape of a cross with a garden bed that is planted with poppies that were in bloom for Remembrance Day, which was very fitting.

We had Patricia from the Millie Dorsch Sisterhood Group give an ode. We also had President Graham Matthews from the William Kibby VC Veterans Shed conduct proceedings, which included a speech from two of the cadets from Immanuel College. Georgia Thompson, who is in year 9, and Archie Zeb, who is in year 7, really spoke beyond their years and talked about what Remembrance Day meant to them. They acknowledged their families' service in the armed services and how that had influenced them to recognise this with their own service. Speaking to them after the service, they are certainly wise beyond their years and are a credit to the school and to their families.

After their speeches, we had the wreath-laying ceremony where I lay a wreath on behalf of a grateful Morphett community. This was followed by a performance by Guitars for Vets, which is a program that has been initiated by Veterans Shed member Jim Mavromatis. He played I Was Only 19 by Redgum and even managed to swallow a fly midway through the performance and still carry on without anyone noticing. We then of course had the Last Post and a minute's silence to finish the service.

I thank Graham Matthews and everyone at the Veterans Shed for putting on the service. I thank all the students from St Leonards Primary School and Immanuel College for their efforts on the day to make sure that we will remember them.

Ms HOOD (Adelaide) (12:16): I, too, rise to speak on this important motion. On Monday I was incredibly proud to see our local Walkerville RSL President, Norm Coleman OAM, a Vietnam veteran, on the front page of The Advertiser newspaper poignantly sharing his story. As Norm said, he has seen many friends die—in war, of old age, and from suicide.

Norm spent 12 months in Vietnam before returning home to a restaurant job, where he would drop whatever plates he was carrying whenever a car went past and backfired. As he told The Advertiser, 'It's like I was ready to stand to attention and get into action, and that went on for a long time.'

For Norm, his friend Charlie Mifsud, and many others in our local community, Remembrance Day is a chance to remember that although the locations of war may change—from Gallipoli to Normandy, Hanoi or Kabul—the battles, both during and after, remain the same. As Norm also said in the newspaper:

For me, it's about the fact we shared this part of our lives, and we want to honour that—and honour those who didn't come back or left us since...I don't look at it from the point of view of which war you were in…All of us who come in are the continuation of a common cause—to look after our service people wherever they come from.

I want to thank Norm, the Walkerville RSL, and the town of Walkerville for its incredibly moving service on Monday led, as always, very ably by RSL Vice President Richard Trotman-Dickenson AM. As part of the service Walkerville Mayor, Melissa Jones, shared the story of a local who lost their life in the war. I want to share some of that story with the house today. The following is taken from the Virtual War Memorial of Australia, contributed by Evan Evans:

Today, it is with the deepest gratitude and with the utmost respect that I would like to honour the memory of one of these young men, of one of my boys of the Somme who gave his today for our tomorrow. I would like to pay a very respectful tribute to Private number 2786 Charles James Honway who fought in the 12^th Australian Infantry Battalion, 3rd Brigade, 1^st Australian Division of the Australian Imperial Force, and who died of his wounds 107 years ago, on July 24, 1916 at the age of 25 during the Battle of the Somme.

Charles James Honway was born on December 4, 1890 in Adelaide, South Australia, and was the son of Michael and Catherine Honway, of Church Terrace, Walkerville, South Australia, and worked as a labourer at the salt works, Kangaroo Island until the outbreak of the war.

Charles enlisted on July 1, 1915 in Keswick, South Australia, in the 12th Australian Infantry Battalion, 9^th Reinforcement under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Lancelot Clarke and after a training period of just over two months, he embarked with his unit from Adelaide, on board HMAT A15 Star Of England on September 21, 1915 and sailed for Greece.

In the fighting around Pozieres the 1st Australian Division lost 7700 men, the 2nd Australian Division had 8100 casualties and the 4th Australian Division lost 7100 men. Joe Maxwell’s platoon, as an example, went from 60 men to four. In his book, he described witnessing the bombardment from behind the lines:

'Rolling, brownish-black smoke-clouds eddied and swirled around us. The acrid tang of explosive hung heavy in the air. It was ripped again and again by the quick yellow and red flash of bursting shrapnel. Higher and higher rose the thunder of the guns, the plumes of yellow multiplied, the smoke swirled faster, and the reek of explosives fell like the stench of death. Could anyone survive in this vast open-air slaughterhouse? Into the flailing wind of steel we stumbled. Men flopped into holes and dropped on the slopes of ridges merging with the grey-brown of the soil.'

Unfortunately, it was during the second day of the battle of Pozieres that Charles met his fate and was seriously wounded, then was immediately evacuated and admitted to the 3rd Casualty Clearing Station in Puchevillers where, despite the care he received, he died a few hours later at the age of 25.

On 31 August 1916, his mother, Mrs Honway of Walkerville, now a widow, received the heartbreaking telegram that she had lost her son at 25 years old. Today, Charles James Honway rests in peace alongside his friends, comrades and brothers in arms at the Puchevillers British Cemetery, Somme, and his grave bears the following inscription: 'Father, unto thee do we commend his spirit.'

Thank you so much, Charles, for all that you and all your comrades have done for us and for my country and whose gratitude, respect, admiration and love will always be yours. At the going down of the sun and in the morning we will remember them.

Once again, I would like to thank the town of Walkerville and the Walkerville RSL for their moving service. I also thank local florist Poppies Flowers for providing the wreath that I laid in tribute, and acknowledge local students and staff from St Andrew's, Walkerville Primary, St Monica's, and Wilderness for also attending the service and for laying tributes. Lest we forget.

Mr WHETSTONE (Chaffey) (12:22): I, too, would like to rise and make a contribution to what is a very important day and a very important motion brought here by the member for Waite. On the 11^th day of the 11^th hour, I stood in silence and reflected on Remembrance Day, as did much of the world. I, like many of the members, attended a local RSL Cross of Sacrifice in honour of the day, and, for me, it was Waikerie's turn.

The service in our region contributed to a better Riverland and I applaud all of those involved. I want to make note of the ever-increasing attendance by our young citizens. I think it is a sign of respect and something that I am very proud of: that those young schoolchildren who attend the services of remembrance do it with pride and they do it not only to capture the imagination of what conflict meant but to understand the freedoms that we enjoy today.

In Chaffey, I have a number of RSLs. Those that had services included Swan Reach, led by their President, Bob Deidre; in Loxton, by Jim West; in Waikerie, by Paul Croft, where I attended; in Morgan, by John Forrester; in Barmera, by Jim Rolfe; in Berri, by Chris Ware; and in Renmark, by Peter Higgs.

Just as a point of note, Australia's largest contingent of Vietnam veterans come from Renmark per head of population, so I am surrounded by many returned servicemen, particularly with the returned servicemen properties that were handed to them on returning after service. Of course, at the Blanchetown RSL, Kim Parry is the president. All the RSLs do a magnificent job of not only promoting and reminding us of the sacrifice soldiers have made for our country and ultimately giving us the freedom that we enjoy today, but also providing a level of support for the community and for the veterans in our very small communities in the Riverland.

Many of these clubs have built and maintained memorial rooms and special collections of a range of Australian military books, DVDs, magazines and memorabilia. I want to pay tribute to one particular museum, which is carefully maintained and collected by Lorraine Masters at Loxton. She does a remarkable job, as do all of my RSLs, but that is one that is truly inspirational when I visit. As I have said, they also play a vital role in not only maintaining this important part of our history but reminding us how lucky we are. It gives us a very clear understanding of the hardship and, in some way, shape or form, the ultimate sacrifice that those people made to give us the lifestyle we enjoy today.

This year, we commemorate 103 years and the anniversary of armistice that ended the First World War hostilities. More than 60,000 Australians died fighting for our freedom, including more than 5,500 South Australians. I will just share a story that I listened to at the Waikerie service and it goes something like this: Flight Lieutenant Douglas Howie was born in Renmark on 5 June 1915. He enlisted on 4 March 1940 and was posted to the No. 1 Squadron RAAF by December 1941. No. 1 Squadron was equipped with Lockheed Hudson patrol bombers based in Malaya. While stationed at RAF Kota Bharu near the Malaya-Thailand border and two days before the Japanese attack on Malaya, the RAAF Hudsons spotted the Japanese invasion fleet, but given the uncertainty about their destination they were instructed to avoid offensive operations until attacks were made against friendly territory.

Shortly after midnight local time, on the night of 7 and 8 December 1941, the Japanese force started landing on the beaches at Kota Bharu close to the airfield. From about 2am, No. 1 Squadron launched a series of assaults on the Japanese forces, becoming the first aircraft to make an attack in the Pacific War. The Hudsons sank a Japanese transport ship and damaged two others for the loss of two planes. This action took place an hour before the Japanese attack on the American fleet at Pearl Harbor.

Several of the squadron, including Flight Lieutenant Howie, were taken as prisoners of war by the Japanese and were imprisoned in Changi in Singapore and later put to work on the Burma Railway. For those younger people here today, if you are not aware of what that means, then my challenge is to google it. Look it up on the internet.

Doug survived that horror and returned to Waikerie where, as I mentioned, he helped start up the rowing club. He was discharged from the RAAF on 19 March 1946 and sadly passed away at Goodwood on 5 July 2009, age 94—not a bad innings—and is buried at the Waikerie Cemetery. He is listed on the Ballarat Australian Ex-Prisoners of War Memorial and the Renmark District Roll of Honour for World War II veterans. The Ode of Remembrance was first published on 21 September 1940 by Laurence Binyon:

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old;

Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning

We will remember them.

Ms HUTCHESSON (Waite) (12:29): I would like to thank all of the members for their contributions this morning. Remembrance Day serves as it should to remind us of those who have served whilst it also marks the end of World War I. We give thanks to all of our service personnel who have served in the past and continue to serve today. Whilst many women and men lost their lives in war, those who are left behind to carry on without them also deserve to be recognised. They carry the sadness and the hopes and dreams they had for that person with them.

In conclusion, I urge all members to support this motion, which they have, which is fabulous, and let us stand united in our gratitude for remembrance. Lest we forget.

Motion carried.