Island marks Anzac Day at Military Cemetery
AROUND 30 people gathered at the Fort George Military Cemetery yesterday to mark Anzac Day.
The services were originally held by the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps to remember those who died in the First World War Gallipoli campaign, but have now been expanded to allow all Australians and New Zealanders to remember those who have served in the armed forces.
Traditionally held at sunrise, the local service was held slightly later – at 7am – to encourage more attendees.
In the crowd there were people from Australia and New Zealand, as well as former members of the armed forces.
Dean of Guernsey, the Very Reverend Tim Barker, led a prayer, the Last Post was sounded and wreaths were laid.
The Australian and New Zealand national anthems were also sung.
This was the second year a service has been held.
It was organised by St Peter Port constable Dennis Le Moignan and RAAF reservist squadron leader Stretch Kontelj.
Mr Kontelj said it was important to mark the day of remembrance in Guernsey.
‘People were very complimentary of the service and to have the opportunity to gather together,’ he said.
Mr Kontelj is originally from a town 75km to the west of Melbourne.
He said there was a good number of Antipodeans in Guernsey.
‘I think there is a significant community,’ he said.
‘I bump into them all the time. I think it is a popular place for Australians. What they love about Guernsey is that it reminds them about country Australia. We get that sense of community.’
