Anzac spirit lives on at Brighton

The Anzac spirit was alive and well at the Brighton Health Campus with the annual Anzac Day Sunset Service seeing more than 600 residents, patients, staff, cadets and locals coming together to mark one of Australia’s most important occasions.

This years’ Anzac Day, was especially important as it was the last year of the Centenary of the Anzacs 2014 – 2018 commemoration, which marks 100 years since Australia’s involvement in the First World War.

Community, Indigenous and Subacute Services Executive Director Tami Photinos said it was important for the Brighton Health Campus to support the Royal Australian Air Force and take part in this important day.

“The Brighton Health Campus has a deep connection to the Australian Defence Force spanning more than 70 years,” Ms Photinos said.

“This site was originally a Royal Australian Air Force training facility and personnel base during World War II before it transitioned to an aged care people’s home run by the State Government in 1946.”

“A local war memorial was erected at the site to honour the service and sacrifice of ANZACs, and the generations of local servicemen and women who have defended our values and freedoms.”

The Anzac Day Sunset Service included a commemorative address, wreath laying, the sounding of the Last Post and observance of one minute’s silence, plus involvement from 120 cadets from the 212 and 224 Squadron, and 233 (Ceremonial) Flight Air Force Cadets.

Ms Photinos said many of us share a personal connection with the Australian Armed Service, whether it was through a loved one or family connection.
“Many Metro North Hospital and Health service staff have either in the past or currently serve in the military as health or military personnel across the world,” she said.

The Brighton Health Campus is part of the Metro North Hospital and Health Service, and has cared for the local community for more than 70 years. It delivers a number of health services for adults of all ages who need help to recover from an illness or injury or who require rehabilitation, specialised residential or aged care services.

It was established in 1946 and throughout the years the service has evolved in response to changing health needs and priorities. The campus has an active and engaged community that supports these significant annual events.

The Anzac Day Sunset Service is an annual event delivered by for the Royal Australian Air Force Association Pine Rivers / Sandgate Branch.

Anzac Day marks the anniversary of the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during the First World War.