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Under a bright winter sky, more than a hundred guests gathered last Thursday at St John of God Richmond Hospital for the annual Veterans’ Day Commemoration Service—a moving tribute to those who have served and continue to serve our nation. Among the attendees were Hawkesbury Mayor Les Sheather, Councillor Mary Lyons-Buckett, Wing Commander Tony Kiernan (Richmond RAAF), Superintendent Nadine Roberts (Hawkesbury Police Area Command), representatives from local RSL Sub-branches, the Hawkesbury National Serviceman’s Association, NSW Vietnam Veterans’ Association, Department of Veterans’ Affairs, students from Colo High School and Kuyper Christian School, partnering service organisations, and veterans.
The event began with a Welcome to Country delivered by local Dharug man Shane Laws, his words grounding the gathering in respect for the land and its history. As the crowd listened in stillness, keynote speaker Andrew Greig—RAPID & Community Development Manager at Lifeline Central West, veteran, and advocate for lived recovery—took the podium. With raw honesty and quiet courage, he recounted his journey through Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, from the darkest moments of despair to the hard-fought place of hope and transformation he knows today. His story of survival, service, and recovery resonated deeply, drawing nods, tears, and quiet reflection from those in attendance.
As the service unfolded, the hauntingly clear notes of bugler Tim Whincop drifted through the crowd, stirring memories and reverence. The solemnity of the moment was carried forward by the guiding presence of community leaders, with Fr Raymond Ugwu (St Monica’s Parish Priest) offering heartfelt prayers, and John Sweeting (St John of God Director of Mission) speaking to the enduring spirit of service, sacrifice, and healing that binds the community together.
For many in the Hawkesbury, St John of God Richmond Hospital is more than a health facility—it is a place of hope and recovery, especially for veterans living with the lasting effects of service. The hospital’s work reflects a deep appreciation for veterans and the sacrifices they have made, recognising the courage, hardship, and resilience they have shown in serving our nation. Services like this are a reminder that the community’s gratitude does not end when a veteran’s active duty does—it continues in the care, respect, and support offered every day.
