Who makes the Anzac Day wreaths?

JOYCE WYLLIE

Wreaths are laid on Anzac Day at many ceremonies around New Zealand as a sign of remembrance, and it is good to remember the creators of these beautiful tributes.

Every year, in the days leading up to 25 April, there is one lady in Collingwood focussed on making several wreaths to be ceremonially placed at the bottom of the cenotaph. Carla Nalder has been working with flowers, leaves, wire, and soaked spongy “oasis” for a number of years now. She originally got involved when she started helping her elderly neighbour Mrs Grant, who was a member of Collingwood RSA Ladies. Among other duties for the organisation, Mrs Grant created wreaths for many Anzac services. It would be a full day, with the two of them sharing company and chat as well as floral skills.

Carla enjoyed doing the wreaths together and has continued ever since, saying she has “only four to do” this year. Her husband Lindsay helps out; his role is to drive around collecting the buckets of greenery needed.

He knows where the best heather plants grow and prunes their camellia bushes. It’s not a time of year with lots of flowers –chrysanthemums and dahlias are colourful, though some people prefer the red and green theme of poppies.

The familiar words “lest we forget” will be repeated, as we honour, respect, and appreciate the huge service so many gave for this country and our community. Carla’s tribute to these men and women, and her service to our community, is her annual gift of beautiful memorial wreaths, saying that “it’s a real joy to do them”.