Speeches
Friday, 14 August 2026
WWII Veterans morning tea
Rod and I warmly welcome you to morning tea at Government House to honour your service and your enduring commitment to our nation.
We do so on the eve of Victory in the Pacific Day (15 August 1945), which marked the end of the Second World War for Australia. It is a time to pause, to reflect and above all to thank you.
In particular, we warmly welcome Sergeant Colin Wagener, South Australia’s oldest living World War II veteran and one of Australia’s oldest.
Friends
Today we recognise the service, sacrifice, and enduring legacy of veterans in this room.
As my term as Governor draws to a close, I am especially grateful for the opportunity to thank you in person.
I am sure you will agree that on a winter morning such as this, a warm ballroom is a welcome place to gather.
It has been a privilege for Rod and me to meet many of you during our visits to RSL branches across the State.
Each visit has reminded us of the extraordinary demands placed on your generation - what was asked of you and the character with which you responded to that call and served.
You were young, you had your lives in front of you, yet when your nation called, you stepped forward with conviction, and a sense of duty.
And when the war was over, your service did not end. You helped build the Australia we know today.
You raised families, you worked in our industries or on the land, you strengthened your communities, you shared your important stories so others would understand the cost of war and value of peace.
You supported your mates on Anzac Day, at RSL branches and commemorations and always remembered them.
Our peace, security, and freedoms owe much to your generation and the sacrifices you made. Your values of loyalty, resilience and looking out for mates continue to endure.
As we witness a world where conflict has once again come to the forefront of our thoughts, shaped by the tragic events unfolding in the Middle East and Ukraine, we are reminded that peace can never be taken for granted.
I acknowledge the diversity of service within your generation, including the women who served at home and abroad, and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander servicemen and women whose contributions have, too often, been under recognised.
I thank the spouses, carers, family and friends who have stood beside you over so many years, in their own quiet service.
I also thank Bill Denny for his heartfelt work in maintaining connections with our World War II vets and championing your cause and your legacy.
Rest assured that in honouring your legacy, we pledge to carry it forward. Today and into the future.
It is an honour to spend time with you this morning.