From 1 November, an 11-day multi-faceted remembrance program curated by the Shrine will commemorate the service and sacrifice of Australians, at a time when peace is especially close to our hearts.
For 88 years the Shrine of Remembrance has been the home of commemoration and remembrance for the Victorian community. It is a reminder of the fragility of peace and the cost of conflict, as well as a testament to the fortitude, courage and generosity of spirit of those who serve all of us. Every year on Remembrance Day we come together to pause, reflect and give remembrance for lives lost and forever changed.
This year, in addition to the 11 November Victorian State Remembrance Day Service, Remembrance Day activities will include daily bespoke tours, a talk by author Paul Byrnes about his new book Sons of War, downloadable kids’ activities, a ‘Lest We Forget’ light installation and music performances. The Shrine will also be illuminated in ‘Red to Remember’ from 1 to 11 November.
Included in the Remembrance Day programming is reflection on the role of nurses on the frontline, both in war and peacekeeping operations. On Sunday 6 November, nurses’ contribution will be celebrated with a dedicated Last Post Service and a spoken word performance of ‘Dispatches from the Frontline’ from the diaries of Sister Nan Reay, a nurse who served in the First World War.
On Wednesday 9 November, author Paul Byrnes will discuss his new book Sons of War which tells the story of underage Australian soldiers who fought in the Second World War.
From 1 to 11 November, 11am tours of the Shrine will conclude in the Sanctuary in time for a viewing of the Ray of Light, accompanied by a short music performance by RAAF Band musicians, and Shrine Guard in historic uniform.
This year’s Remembrance Day service on 11 November will begin with a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony at 10:30am by Bunurong Elders. Her Excellency, the Governor of Victoria, The Honorable Linda Dessau AC will lay a wreath at the Stone of Remembrance and The Ode will be read before a minute’s silence is observed at 11am, when the iconic Ray of Light illuminates the Stone of Remembrance. The service will feature an RAAF flyover and the release of pigeons from the upper balcony will conclude the service.
Remembrance Day in 2022 presents a unique opportunity to reflect on peace in the 21st century, its fragility and the role the Shrine plays as a monument of cultural significance in fostering peace.
