A Special Anzac Day Service
Community

A Special Anzac Day Service

Honouring Allan Godfrey and war veterans in pre ANZAC Day Service

Special ANZAC Day Service

On Sunday 21st April 2024, local residents and members from Caroline Springs RSL gathered at Woodlea Town Park to take part in a pre ANZAC Day service, commemorating the brave men and women who served and continue to serve in the Australian Defence Force. The service included a special memorial for 100 year old WW2 veteran, Allan Godfrey, who recently passed away on the 20th of March, just a few days shy of his 101st birthday. The memorial honoured his service in the Australian Defence Force and presence in the Woodlea community.

Allan Godfrey's Legacy

Mr. Godfrey enlisted in WW2 at the age of 18, where his journey started in Darwin and was stationed there for over a year. From Darwin, he continued on to New Guinea, the Philippines, Borneo, and Malaya, where he saved Australian prisoners of war.

Living in St. Albans with his great-grandchildren in recent years, Mr. Godfrey was a very active member in the community and played an important part in the Caroline Springs RSL. He shared his experiences from the war with others, and enjoyed visiting schools and assisting with ANZAC Day services.

Aintree Walk of Honour

The participants walked the Aintree Walk of Honour amongst over 180 trees and 150 individual plaques, honouring those who have served the nation, and Australia’s military history from the Boer War to the present. The Reflection Pond at the Town Centre marked the conclusion of the walk, where the community gathered to pay their respects during a minute of silence after listening to The Last Post.

At the heart of the Aintree Walk of Honour is the eighty-metre long mural, designed by Melbourne-based street artist Amanda Newman, displaying individuals who played a part in Australia’s military history.