FREMANTLE REMEMBRANCE DAY | MEET THE WARDEN

On 11 November, at the War Memorial on Monument Hill, the Fremantle Remembrance Day Service will honour the services and sacrifices of the armed forces, including thousands of men and women from our local community. We spoke with Captain Angela Bond, RAN, about the important role she plays in maintaining this special site and service.

The official Fremantle Remembrance Day Service has been maintained for the past century by specially appointed wardens. The first Warden of the Fremantle War Memorial was appointed in 1931 to ensure this heritage site was protected for future generations. Captain Angela Bond, RAN, former Commanding Officer of HMAS Stirling in Western Australia, took up the baton five years ago.

“It is a voluntary role and one I value as a veteran.”

One of the roles of the warden is to provide an avenue for the City of Fremantle to engage a veteran on ceremonial matters. Most significantly, the warden provides guidance and advice on the two major military memorial services of the year: Remembrance Day and Anzac Day.

“These are important occasions to remember and reflect on the services of many men and women who have or have been prepared to sacrifice all for their nation to preserve freedom and choice. It is also a time to reflect on the families left behind and the sacrifices they make,” said Captain Bond.

“At these services, we also take the time to remember those men and women who are currently servicing on operations and undertaking duty in support of their nation.”

According to Captain Bond, the Fremantle Remembrance Day Service is unique in that it is supported, funded and organised by the City of Fremantle council.

“There is involvement by the local RSL Sub Branch and other veteran organisations; however, the City staff work intimately with the Submarine Force at HMAS Stirling and the University Regiment of WA at Leeuwin Barracks in the planning and execution of the service. Each of these entities have historical links to Fremantle, which are maintained through engagements such as these,” she said.

Captain Bond, who served in the Middle East Area of Operations, proudly recalls her appointment to the role in 2017 when Rear Admiral Mark Bonser, AO, CSC RAN (Retired), who held the position for seven years, handed over of the ‘Memorial Baton’ at a special ceremony after the Remembrance Day Service.

Captain Bond is also a Naval Reservist and currently leads the Defence Industry Pathways Program, which aims to engage civilians to work in WA’s maritime defence industry. 

Find more details about this year’s Fremantle Remembrance Day Service, on 11 November. 10.30 am – 11.30 am.