Headstone ceremony honours fallen veterans

A solemn headstone dedication ceremony was held at the Stanthorpe Cemetery today to honour seven veterans who had been laid to rest in unmarked graves.

The event brought together members of the Stanthorpe RSL Sub Branch, Southern Downs Regional Councillors and community representatives in a shared act of remembrance and respect.

The ceremony forms part of the Stanthorpe RSL Sub Branch’s ongoing Memorial Projects initiative, which began in 2018 with the mission to identify and mark the graves of veterans who served during World War I and beyond.

Sub Branch Vice President Glen Gibson said the event marked another milestone in the RSL’s ongoing commitment to preserving the memory of those who served and ensuring they are laid to rest with dignity and respect.

“Remembering the service of our veterans in this manner is one of the ways we are able to give back to the community that support us,” Mr Gibson said.

“We see our involvement with projects of this nature as an important part of our responsibilities and we’re proud to ensure these veterans are no longer forgotten.”

While attending the ceremony, Southern Downs Councillor Morwenna Harslett acknowledged the importance of honouring Stanthorpe’s wartime legacy.

“These headstones ensure a lasting tribute to those who served our nation,” Cr Harslett said.

“They are a sincere reminder of the generations of courage, sacrifice and community that have shaped Stanthorpe’s proud war history.

“The legacy of those veterans now stands in stone, forever part of the story of remembrance that runs through the Granite Belt.”

Also at the ceremony, Southern Downs Councillor Russell Wantling said Council was unwaveringly supportive of the important work done by the RSL.

“The Stanthorpe RSL Sub Branch plays a vital role in preserving our shared history and honouring those who served,” Cr Wantling said.

“As the grandson of a World War I veteran who is buried here in Stanthorpe, I know firsthand how important it is to have a place where families and communities can reflect on the sacrifices made.

“The Sub Branch continues to lead with compassion and purpose, and their dedication to projects like these strengthens community connection and ensures that no veteran is ever forgotten.”