January 11, 2023, marked the 50th anniversary of the then Governor-General Sir Paul Hasluck proclaiming an end to Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War.
To commemorate the withdrawal of our troops, the Rotary Club of Fairy Meadow, NSW, has planned a Community Walk for April 2, 2023. The walk aims to raise community awareness and honour the service of our Vietnam veterans.
Rotarians, their family members and friends, Illawarra and Sydney metropolitan residents, community groups and schools are all invited to join the event, which will have staggered starts (10km – 2km) from Woonona Bulli RSL, finishing at the Vietnam War Memorial at Flagstaff Hill, Wollongong. It is not a race but a community event giving participants the choice to run, walk or stroll at their own pace.
“This 50th anniversary of the withdrawal of our combat troops from the conflict in Vietnam is a perfect opportunity for us to show both the veterans and their families that the sacrifices they made are appreciated and valued,” said Sharyn Mackenzie, of the Rotary Club of Fairy Meadow.
“History has shown that their service was very costly, beyond even the physical pain and loss, and that cost continues to be felt by both the veterans themselves and those who have shared their lives since their return.
“The walk is a wonderful opportunity for the community to gather together to show our respect for our veterans. Rotary is an organisation that promotes peace and goodwill and here in the Illawarra these principles are beautifully illustrated by the relationship that has been built over the years between the veterans and those who fled the communist regime in Vietnam after the end of the war and have since created new and successful lives here.”
The project partners have agreed that due to the tragic and extensive humanitarian crisis in Türkiye and Syria funds raised from the walk will be dedicated to the RAWCS appeal.
“The walk is open to all members of the community and the main goal is simply to heighten awareness and appreciation of those who served,” Sharyn said.
For more information and to register for the walk, visit rememberingvietnam.my.canva.site