RSL members are getting ready to fire up the barbecue for the upcoming Freedom of Entry Parade in Broadford on Sunday 29 October from 10am to 2pm.
The gas bottle is full, the aprons are out, and the tongs are ready for the event that will mark the 82nd anniversary of the School of Armour’s establishment in Mitchell Shire.
The parade will see up to 20 armoured vehicles and soldiers moving along High Street towards Memorial Park where there will be an official service, followed by a tank display, a chance to meet the soldiers and a community day including a sausage sizzle.
For Broadford RSL members the event is more than just a chance to demonstrate their snag sizzling skills.
President James Evans said Broadford RSL has very strong ties to the defence community at Puckapunyal.
“A majority of our members have either served with or alongside the Royal Australian Armoured Corps and those from the School of Armour,” he said.
“Supporting this event allows us to further strengthen those links with our serving members and the community of Broadford.”
Mr Evans encouraged community members to attend and said the chance to speak with those who serve in a local unit is one which should not be missed.
“The parade sends a message of unity and gratitude. Many of these soldiers live locally and the ability to share something as historically significant as this with the Broadford community is truly special,” he said.
“Events like these can be once in a lifetime. Some of our members still reminisce on the fond memories of previous Freedom of Entry parades that they were involved with.”
Commanding Officer, School of Armour, Lieutenant Colonel Benjamin Shepherd, CSC said local RSLs connection to events like the Freedom of Entry Parade is vital.
“The camaraderie forged in the military doesn’t fade with retirement or transition from the Australian Defence Force,” he said.
“Events like these reunite us, reminding us of the values that bind us together.
“The Broadford RSL’s involvement speaks volumes, reminding us all that the military family is forever, and their wisdom is an invaluable asset to our community.”
Mitchell Shire Mayor Fiona Stevens said it was important to have the RSL involved in the parade because a significant number of their membership proudly served in various armoured corps, and their connection remains strong.
“Volunteer groups like the RSL are the backbone of our community. They embody the true spirit of selflessness and service,” she said.
“Their dedication to supporting veterans and their families is not just admirable; it’s essential.
“Mitchell Shire is blessed to have such dedicated individuals and organisations that remind us that the strength of a community lies in its collective kindness and willingness to give back.”
The Freedom of Entry Parade is on from 10am to 2pm on Sunday 29 October. High Street will be closed to traffic from approximately 9am, with signed detours in place.
People planning to visit the event are encouraged to leave plenty of time for parking. Other traffic is advised to avoid Broadford and travel via Seymour, Tooborac, Kilmore and Wandong.
There will also be no heavy vehicle access from 9am to 2pm.
