On August 24 the special Commemoration of Relief in Tobruk service was held on the WW2 forecourt at Melbourne’s Shrine of Remembrance. The service began with a welcome by Lieutenant Colonel David Blackwell OAM RFD (Retd) on behalf of the Shrine Trustees, followed by a procession of banners, led by the Rats of Tobruk Memorial Pipes and Drums. 

Vice President of the Rats of Tobruk Association, Paul Dipnall added his welcome and introduced Senator Raff Ciccone who read a message from The Hon. Anthony Albanese, Prime Minister of Australia. Major General Jason Blain DSC AM CSC, representing Lieutenant General Simon Stuart AO DSC Chief of Army, spoke about the exceptional performance of the Australian troops, whose tenacity was even respected by the enemy. 

It was truly encouraging to see so many descendants of the Rats in attendance, many of whom laid wreaths or carried a banner. This was a very special occasion, and we thank all who attended this annual event, especially those who travelled from afar.