GALLERY | Special connection between Lone Pine and the Kyabram hospital

On Thursday, November 13 that very tree — only 20 metres taller — was the centrepiece of a special service honouring Australian soldiers.

KDHS, with Kyabram Legacy, hosted its annual Lone Pine service, bringing together Sheridan residents, family members and staff members for a solemn service.

It was hosted by Legacy member Ian Danahay, and the audience heard from speakers from Legacy, Graeme and Gwen James, Peter Fitzgerald, Gavon Armstrong, and KDHS board director Jackie Austin and Aboriginal health liaison officer Simone Guinan.

Mr Danahay recalled KDHS’ parallel history with Legacy, with the latter beginning just one year after the Bush Hospital (now KDHS) was established in Kyabram in 1960.

Kyabram Legacy supports the widows and families of veterans who served their country, working alongside KDHS to help ageing veterans and their families through difficult periods.

Mr Fitzgerald reiterated this connection.

“KDHS has supported our veterans and widows as the victims have passed away, but also the wider Legacy community,” he said.

“It's not just about the sick and the disabled ... it's about those who are transitioning into a life of loneliness because they’ve lost their loved one.”

The audience also listened to renditions of Advance Australia Fair and God Save the King by Kyabram P-12 students Chloe Berker, Maise O’Dwyer and Charlie Morrison, as well as the Last Post and Reveille played by Kerrie Cox on a tuba.

Following the service, attendees were invited to a morning tea under the shade of the Lone Pine tree.

Ms Chalker recalled her memories planting the Lone Pine all those years ago.

“I just look at it and remember how small it used to be,” she said.

“It’s come so far.”