General News
29 April, 2026
ANZAC Day spirit embodied
VETERAN horseman and retired military engineer Paul ‘Smiley’ O’Reilly and his mare, Lena, stole the show at this year’s Innisfail ANZAC Day commemorations, leading the main march in full World War I Lighthorse regalia, complete with saddle, lance and red ensign.
The striking sight of the Atherton Tablelands rider and his impeccably-presented mare drew admiration from the huge crowd and set a powerful tone for the day’s events.
Despite threatening rain, the ANZAC spirit burned brightly as more than 500 people gathered at the cenotaph to mark the 111th anniversary of the Gallipoli landing.
The dawn service opened with a dedication prayer by Innisfail RSL sub-branch welfare officer BJ Price, followed by addresses by president Sean O’Shea and Cassowary Coast Deputy Mayor Nick Pervan.
The haunting notes of The Last Post, played by bugler Oscar Van Haaren, brought the crowd to stillness before a minute’s silence, the reading of The Ode and the raising of the flags to full height.
Piper Marc Darveniza performed The Lament as wreaths were laid by representatives from the Innisfail RSL, local government, Defence units, Air Force cadets, community groups, schools and members of the public.
Following the Australian and New Zealand anthems, veterans, serving personnel and invited guests gathered at the Innisfail RSL for a traditional gunfire breakfast served by the Lions Club of Innisfail Lioness.
“It was fantastic to see wonderful support across a wide range of community groups and particularly the schools who embrace and celebrate the ANZAC spirit and values,” Mr Price said.
“This is so important for us soldiers as they are the next generation,” he said.
Around 1000 people later joined the main march from the RSL along Edith Street and Owen Street before returning to the services club.
O’Reilly once again led the procession, followed by the catafalque and flag party of AAFC and 51 FNQR members, the Innisfail District Pipe Band, 107 SQN AAFC, RSL veterans, Nashos, community groups and local students from 10 primary and two secondary schools.
As the march passed the saluting base, Australian Air Force group captain Lynette Batch, who has strong family ties to Innisfail, took the salute.
The commemorations concluded with a memorable moment as Bob Harris from the Innisfail Aero Club performed a fly-over, releasing 200 poppies in tribute.
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