A new mural in the City of Logan pays tribute to servicemen, women and animals tasked with keeping the country safe.
The mural at Greenbank Services Club features Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel.
One panel depicts a Royal Australian Air Force member deployed to Afghanistan. Another shows an Army dog handler in action.
There is a section dedicated to Australia’s World War II Diggers, depicting scenes from the charge of the 4th Australian Light Horse Brigade at the Battle of Beersheba.
Another section is dedicated to Royal Australian Navy personnel and features the HMAS Brisbane, a guided missile destroyer which was in service from 1967-2001.
The mural, painted by talented local artist Laing Rahner, complements a similar piece on Anzac Avenue, which was unveiled in 2018 to mark 100 years since the end of World War I.
Division 7 Councillor Tim Frazer jointly funded the mural with Division 11 Councillor Natalie Willcocks.
Cr Frazer said the mural was designed to reflect the changing face of the ADF.
“While it’s important that we pay tribute to the fallen and the sacrifice of soldiers in wars gone past, it’s also important that we recognise the ongoing commitment of our modern warriors,” Cr Frazer said.
Cr Willcocks said the mural would be prominent to visitors to the Greenbank Services Club on ANZAC Day (April 25).
“On that special day, visitors will be able to see these colourful reminders of the work of our defence force personnel,” Cr Willcocks said.
“They help keep Australia safe, and this mural is another tribute to the brave service they give to protect our freedom.”
RSL sub branch president Eric Cavanagh OAM said the mural’s messages were aimed at the next generation of veterans, and was thrilled with Laing’s work.
“The idea was we would have young veterans looking at it,” Mr Cavanagh said.
“The board praised Laing’s work and agree that he has done a fantastic job.
“The mural is a great addition for the veterans and wider community.”
The painting had been hampered by wet weather, Laing said.
“We had a bit of rain, and that put it back a bit,” he said.
