Mooloolaba Surf Life Saving Club has announced the cancellation of this year’s ANZAC Day Dawn Service on Mooloolaba Beach, due to the threat of COVID-19.
“This has been an extremely tough decision for us as a club to make and one we have not taken lightly,” Mooloolaba SLSC president Darryl Johnson said.
“Traditionally we have around 10,000 people attend ANZAC Day Dawn Service at Mooloolaba Beach.
“We want to ensure the utmost safety for the public, veterans and especially those that are particularly vulnerable in these times.
“The local community and our veteran population’s safety is our major priority.”
Mooloolaba Surf Life Saving Club worked closely with the Sunshine Coast Council, Queensland Health, and Maroochydore RSL to try to hold the event, but in the interest of public safety announced its cancellation.
“We understand the health and safety of our locals and visitors are paramount,” Mr Johnson said.
“Even with the best planning and preparation for such a large major gathering of our community, we cannot guarantee social distancing and all COVID restrictions that are required for those who were to attend.
“So it is with a heavy heart that we have decided not to go ahead with this year’s ANZAC Day Dawn Service.
“The Surf Club, Mooloolaba will be putting together a public memorial, with more information to follow.
“We would like to encourage all members of the public to join the RSL in the ‘Light Up the Dawn’ service as a safe alternative.
“This is a unique and poignant way to unite safely and honour and thank our nation’s veterans on Sunday, April 25 2021.”
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Maroochydore RSL will still hold its dawn service at Cotton Tree Cenotaph and a Parade on the morning of the 25th.
But there will be restricted numbers. Please contact Maroochydore RSL directly for more information.
Mooloolaba Surf Life Saving Club veterans/ex-servicemen and women members will be invited to a small, private dawn service at The Surf Club function room.
This will be an invite-only ceremony followed by breakfast. All attendees will be adhering to strict COVID social distancing and sign-in guidelines.
The Surf Club, Mooloolaba Restaurant will open to the general public at noon, and the bar will open at 1pm.
