Church volunteers joined veterans

The Ettalong Baptist Church joined with members of the Gosford Sub-Branch of the Vietnam Veterans Association at its 55th Anniversary of National Service on Sunday, October 22.

Volunteers from the church, with "Better Together" embroidered on their apron, helped to "feed the multitudes" who had gathered at the picnic in the park, according church volunteer Ms Rosemary Ruthven.

The picnic was the culmination of a four-day event held only once every five years.

"Undaunted by bad weather, over 2000 servicemen and women from all around Australia marched down the streets of Gosford, 10-deep, to participate in a memorial service followed by a 'picnic' held in the park opposite the Central Coast Leagues Club who helped to host a feast of exhibits and food stalls," Ms Ruthven said.

"Exhibition displays included Nambus Vietnam Veterans, A-Troop 1st Australian Light Horse, NSW Corps of Marines, Army Re-enactment Heritage Newcastle, Military Vehicle Club, and Sunnyside Medal Mounting and Military Display.

Press release, October 24 Rosemary Ruthven, Ettalong Baptist Church