Top ranking Army chief ‘honoured’ to visit Waiben

STORY BY ALF WILSON

“During the Second World War, 880 Torres Strait Islanders enlisted into the Australian Army to defend the archipelago from Japanese invasion – only 10 men remained at home with their families,” Lt. Gen. Stuart said.

He said descendants of the Battalion continued to serve in the Australian Defence Forces across Australia.

“Many are within the 51 Far North Queensland Regiment, Charlie (Sarpeye) Company on Thursday Island,” he said.

“Every Torres Strait Island soldier there has a grandfather who served in the Battalion, demonstrating the significance of their contribution to Australia, which should not be forgotten.

“The Sarpeyes are proudly the Australian Army’s largest primarily Indigenous sub-unit, carrying on the legacy of their ancestors in the protection of our country.

“They will tell you proudly that they are the eyes and ears of the north.

“They play a vital role in protecting Australia’s northern borders through the persistent protection and surveillance in the Torres Strait region.”

He said he would be there for the ceremonial parade through the streets by soldiers of the 51st Battalion, Far North Queensland Regiment (51 FNQR), and a commemorative service at ANZAC Park.

The Waiben celebrations on 16 and 17 March were expected to receive national coverage in print publications, radio and television and social media, along with extensive local coverage in the Torres News and on Radio 4MW.

MEANWHILE Townsville’s planning and rehearsing for their celebrations were well underway.

This Saturday at Townsville’s Flexible Learning Centre there will host singing practice for the event, with quality singer Alma Pilot, who was a member of the Deadly Aunties

The other members were

Millianna Davey, Mamam

Martin and Anemah Ghee who is now deceased.

Already a banner has been made which will be on display throughout the Townsville event.

Committee co-ordinator

Therese Cowley expects many people young and old will turn out for the Townsville celebrations, which will include marching on ANZAC day.