Fromelles France … 100 Years On

What an absolutely amazing day we had yesterday on the first day of our installation in Fromelles. It was, without a doubt for me, THE highlight of my work with this amazing project since we began …

There are some 13 volunteers from Australia who are here with us for the installation including Phil Johnston and Robyn Baillieu … We were joined by 10 or 12 local Rotarians from Bethune Artois and Armentieres who welcomed us with open arms and worked alongside us. There were also quite a few Australians who happened to be in the area who also pitched in. The Australian Forces came and joined us and many many other families from many different countries who also wanted to help. At one stage I estimate maybe 60 people were working with us in the install. We were absolutely amazed at the generosity of spirit they all showed. The ground was hard and it was rather backbreaking work on a hot day in Fromelles.

At one point the Birralee Choir  …  15 gorgeous young people with angelic voices from Queensland Australia joined us … They had been rehearsing down the road at VC Corner for the centenary ceremonies on Tuesday. They sang “In Flanders Fields” … Sitting on a German blockhouse in the middle of our field of poppies … It was a breathtaking moment in time and one we will never forget.  There were a few tears shed.

So … That was our day. You were a big part of it, even though you are not here.

So many people have done their “bit” to get us here to Fromelles … From the poppy makers to those who worked so hard to pull the displays together … To those who supported us financially … To those who spread our message … Its a true team effort … Whole of community … and I am in awe of the power of our team not to mention the power of the message.

And it shows that we will not forget.

Thank you for your support