Australia's isolated war veterans need not fear they'll be forgotten on ANZAC Day with serving diggers set to show them their appreciation with a 'virtual visit'.
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Coronavirus restrictions have caused the cancellation of Anzac Day services and marches across the state.
A special wreath-laying ceremony will be conducted in Brisbane with only a handful of dignitaries, including RSL Queensland president Tony Ferris, in attendance.
However, RSL Queensland has come up with another way to make sure stay-at-home veterans who would normally be marching or catching up with comrades at a local RSL club are not alone.
They've teamed up with Brisbane's 7th Combat Brigade, to surprise veterans with personal phone calls from current serving members.
"Many of our older veterans particularly look forward to Anzac Day... I know that many of them are feeling the loss of this social interaction, especially those who have been isolated by the COVID-19 restrictions," RSL Queensland spokesperson Rob Skoda said in a statement on Friday.
"Virtual Veteran Visits will ensure that they know that -- despite the current unusual circumstances -- they have not been forgotten."
Minister for Veteran's Affairs Darren Chester said the gesture was simple, but would have a profound impact on those picking up the phone.
"The phone calls may seem like a small gesture from our current serving members, however due to the coronavirus pandemic and the need to stay home, it is more important than ever that we find ways for our veterans to still be able to commemorate Anzac Day."
Australian Associated Press
