After more than four years of brutal fighting in the most destructive war the modern world had seen, the guns fell silent, and people around the world rejoiced.

But it came at a great cost, and for Australia, of the some 416,000 who enlisted for service more than 60,000 died—the effects of which were felt in every community, large and small, around the country.

In the years that followed the war, November 11 was known as Armistice Day and two minutes of solemn silence was observed at 11am.

Today, November 11 is known as Remembrance Day, and it stands as the day we remember the men and women who have suffered and died in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations over a century of service.

This Remembrance Day, I urge all Australians in communities across the nation to wear a red Flanders Poppy and to stop for a minute’s silence to remember these brave men and women.

We should also remember those who returned home carrying with them the scars of their service, and the family members who cared for them. And we thank those currently serving in the Australian Defence Force and on peacekeeping operations.

As a nation we should all show our gratitude for the sacrifice of those who have bravely served and died. For a century we have remembered them and we will ensure they are remembered still.

Lest we forget.

The Hon. Darren Chester MP

Minister for Veterans’ Affairs

Having been in the Cowra hospital quite a few times in recent years I can quite understand the need for a new hospital, it is very old.

I have been attended by the most dedicated doctors, nurses and household staff that I have ever known of in my life.

I wish Cowra all the very best with collecting signatures, just go for it.

Maryellen Flynn

Guide Dogs NSW/ACT recently launched our new Cane Do campaign as part of White Cane Day, reminding members of the community what they ‘cane do’ to help people using a white cane navigate public spaces in a safe and independent way.

A recent survey of our clients Australia-wide revealed two thirds of people who use white canes have been grabbed or handled by a member of the public, even though they didn’t ask for help.

By grabbing a person with a white cane by the arm to help them onto public transport or across the road – without their consent or prior knowledge – you can disorient them or break the concentration they are using to follow a path.

We’re reminding well-meaning members of the community that the most simple, effective and helpful thing you can do, is directly ask a person using a white cane if they need assistance before trying to help.

What you ‘Cane Do’

·         Ask the person using a white cane if they would like assistance and if so, how?

·         If you see a person with a white cane, be aware and give them space to navigate

·         Don’t be offended if a person with a white cane declines your offer of help – they may simply be confidently travelling independently or concentrating

·         Alert the person with a white cane if they are in any immediate danger

·         Report all hazards in public spaces to your local council

Dale Cleaver

CEO of Guide Dogs NSW/ACT