ANZAC WEEK CEREMONIES IN BELGIUM

12 September 2007

The Governor-General and Mrs Jeffery will represent the government and people of Australia at the re-interment of five Australian soldiers, whose remains were recovered in 2006, after perishing in the Battle of Passchendaele in 1917. Their Excellencies will also attend services commemorating the ANZACs, as part of the 90th anniversary of this landmark battle.

The commemorations on 4 October begin with a tribute to New Zealand soldiers at ‘s Graventafel, followed by a service at Tyne Cot Cemetery in remembrance of the ANZACs.

The Battle of Passchendaele, was one of the most formidable of the Great War. There were 10 Victoria Crosses awarded during the final battle in October 1917, including one Australian – Captain Clarence Jeffries, who is buried at Tyne Cot Cemetery alongside fellow Australian Victoria Cross recipient SGT Lewis McGee. The Battle was significant, as it was the first time all five of the Australian Divisions in the 1st and 2nd Anzac Corps fought together, side by side with their Allied counterparts. Passchendaele is also remembered for its ferocity and the heavy losses sustained. Between 20 September and 31 October 1917, more than 8000 Australians were killed, and over 30,000 wounded.

As the Governor-General will travel through London, he will attend a function hosted by the High Commissioner to promote Australian and British business linkages.

The Governor-General will depart Australia on 29 September 2007 and return on 12 October 2007.

Media Contact:
Stephen Jiggins
02 62833519 or 0408 480 779
Government House
Canberra
12 September 2007