Remembrance Day: Geraldton RSL duo raise money for veterans and keep memory of diggers alive on Poppy Day

If you were around the Geraldton CBD last Friday you may have seen two men in full World War I Anzac uniforms collecting donations and handing out poppies. Geraldton RSL members Karl Edwards and Mark Long walked along the streets of the CBD in their re-enactment outfits, raising money for veterans on Poppy Day. The duo raised $1150 in their second year taking on the task. Mr Edwards said the effort was all about keeping the memory of Australian soldiers alive. “We just want to raise awareness, or keep awareness going of the loss of the guys, the dedication and sacrifices they made,” he said. “We’re quite free compared to a lot of countries, because of the sacrifices these guys made before us. “I’d like to thank to thank everyone in Geraldton for digging deep and giving to a worthy cause.” The Geraldton RSL raised $5560 on Poppy Day, and after collecting Remembrance Day containers from schools, businesses and sporting clubs they hope to have raised $7000 to $8000. Because of volunteer constraints, the RSL will not be holding an official Remembrance Day service this year, but some members of the 11th Battalion Living History Unit, which Mr Edwards belongs to, will be going to the Commonwealth War Grave to hold a service of their own from 10am-11am on Friday.