At the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month, His Excellency the Honourable Thomas Bradley KC, Governor of Queensland, joined veterans, serving members of the Australian Defence Force, families and members of the community at the Shrine of Remembrance, ANZAC Square, for the RSL Queensland Remembrance Day Ceremony, where the Governor laid a wreath in honour of all who have served and died in war and on operations.
The ceremony marked His Excellency’s first major ceremonial occasion since being sworn in as the 28th Governor of Queensland on 1 November, and it was fitting that one of the first public duties of the new term was an act of remembrance on behalf of the people of Queensland.
This year marks 108 years since the Armistice of 1918 brought an end to the fighting of the First World War, and the minute’s silence observed across ANZAC Square remains one of the most enduring expressions of the nation’s gratitude to the more than 100,000 Australians who have lost their lives in service.
Ceremonial occasions such as Remembrance Day hold particular significance for the Office of the Governor.
As the representative of His Majesty The King in Queensland, the Governor’s presence at commemorative services reflects the deep respect of the State and the Crown for those who have served, and the vice-regal laying of a wreath stands as a formal tribute made on behalf of all Queenslanders.
Such occasions also ensure that the stories of service and sacrifice continue to be shared with younger generations, and that the veteran community, along with the families of those who did not return, are recognised and supported, sustaining a tradition that has united Queenslanders in reflection for more than a century.
His Excellency extends sincere thanks to RSL Queensland, the veterans and Defence personnel in attendance, and all Queenslanders who paused today to remember, and lest we forget.
