Message from Mayor John Faker
Each year, I express my gratitude for our community's continued presence and support as we come together to pay tribute to a dark chapter in Australia's military history.
2023 marks the 30th anniversary of the unveiling of the Sandakan Memorial in Burwood Park, a poignant structure honouring the Australian soldiers who lost their lives during the infamous death marches from January to June 1945.
The annual Sandakan Remembrance Service has become a rare yet significant event in Australia, a moment when we collectively pause to reflect on our deep-rooted connection to the tragic events that unfolded in the small Borneo town during the darkest days of World War II.
Today we come together to honour the memory and sacrifices of the 23 courageous men from Burwood, who will forever be remembered as dedicated and treasured members of our community.
Their lives were among the more than 2,000 Australian and British Prisoners of War who tragically perished in the unforgiving Borneo jungle.
As a father of four children, I saddened to think that children as young as 15 had enlisted to serve during the Battle where men were captured and sent to Sandakan.
We are tasked with preserving the legacy of this historic event, ensuring that the stories of bravery and sacrifice are passed down through generations.
Each year, I encourage us all to not merely observe our Sandakan Remembrance Service as a ritual or a formality but rather as a heartfelt tribute to those who gave their lives for the values they held dear - honour, freedom, and justice.
Their sacrifice must continue to inspire us to cherish and safeguard the principles they fought for.