History was made during Wednesday’s Anzac Day March as eight women led the veterans group from the Dubbo RSL Memorial Club to the cenotaph at Victoria Park.
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It was a move designed to highlight women’s service, with many, including former Army medic Penny Green, questioned in the past for wearing their medals over their hearts.
“I’ve had people approach me in the pub, flick my medals and go ‘are they yours’?” she said.
But on Wednesday there was no question and the women, including 97-year-old Dot Robinson (Women’s Australian Auxiliary Air Force), marched proudly out in front of their fellow veterans.
Former Army aircraft technician Michelle Graham said she was “really proud” to help lead the march.
“It was a big honour to walk in front of the rest of the veterans, and walk beside the other women as well,” she said.
“It was a really proud moment.”
“Girl power!” Ms Green said.
Retired Army dental nurse Brigette Glynn said: “it’s a great step forward, in the services and out of the services. It was absolutely amazing”.
The women also stood apart from the other veterans throughout the service at Victoria Park.
“A lot of our serving women have been fronted and asked ‘what are you doing wearing your father’s medals, or your grandfather’s medals?’” Dubbo RSL sub branch president Tom Gray said at the conclusion of the service.
“But there are women today who have been out there and earned what they’re wearing … I’d like you to give those ladies a hand.
“And to all our ex-service personnel and service personnel, thank you for your service.”
Guest speaker Lieutenant Colonel Scott Morris paid homage to all the personnel – women and men alike – who continue to serve.
“Although not often spoken about in the media or in the community, Australia is still at war today,” he said.
“Soldiers, sailors and airmen continue to serve in conflict zones across the world including Afghanistan, Iraq, the Sinai, Golan Heights and in South Sudan.
“Our thoughts are with these men and women who continue to stoically serve in harm’s way in our nation’s interest.
“They continue the proud legacy that our Anzac forefathers built for us to follow and, rightfully, remember.”
