Centenary torch lights up in Albany

Legacy’s Centenary Torch Relay arrived in Albany, Western Australia, on 3 May at the start of its six-month journey across Australia to celebrate 100 years since the Legacy promise was made.

CAPTION: The flame is lit by a torch bearer as the Legacy Centenary Torch Relay begins in Albany, Western Australia, to begin its six-month journey across Australia. Photo by Private Reece Oakes.

Launched in Pozières, France, on 23 April, the relay travelled via Belgium to London before arriving in Albany.

The torch will travel 50,000km over the next six months, carried by 1500 torch bearers as it visits every Legacy Club on its journey to the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne on 13 October, where Legacy was founded.

Legacy Centenary Torch Relay ADF Liaison Officer Colonel Scott Clingan, who took part in the ceremony in France, said it was fitting to hold it where the first Legacy battlefield promise was made – to support families of veterans who had lost their lives or suffered as a result of their service.

Albany was the last Australian port of call for many servicemen in the First World War.

By starting the flame’s journey in Albany, Legacy commemorated the sacrifice and paid homage to the first convoy of Australian and New Zealand personnel who embarked from there in November 1914.

Commander of Perth-based 13th Brigade Brigadier Brett Chaloner said Albany, Fremantle and Perth had a lasting connection to the first Anzacs.

“Tens of thousands of soldiers and sailors embarked here for Gallipoli and Europe and thousands never saw Australia again,” Brigadier Chaloner said.

“Legacy was so important in looking after their families when the war ended, and they continue to support the families of veterans of recent conflicts.

“Defence is proud to show our support as the torch begins its journey throughout Australia.”

Director of ADF support to the Legacy Centenary Torch Relay Colonel Catherine Carrigan said the ADF was providing a triservice escort for the torch relay.

She said the event was about bringing Defence members, Legacy members and beneficiaries and communities together.

“As the Legacy Torch Relay moves across the country, we look forward to escorting the torch through local communities to connect them with this great cause,” Colonel Carrigan said.

To find out more about the relay visit Home – Legacy Torch Relay.

 

 

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