Community to gather for candlelight memorial honouring loved ones

NIGHT OF TRIBUTE... GV Hospice Care invite everyone in the community to attend the second Community Candlelight Memorial on May 22, 5.30-6.30pm. Pictured are lit candles with messages by the lake from last year's memorial. Photo: Supplied

AN evening of remembrance and celebration is set to unfold as GV Hospice Care organises its second Community Candlelight Memorial. On Wednesday, May 22, 5.30-6.30pm, community members are invited to gather on the lake foreshore amphitheatre behind SAM for an evening of reflection.

This meaningful event provides an opportunity for attendees to light a candle and pen down messages of remembrance for their loved ones lost over the past year. In compliance with council regulations, battery-operated candles will be available, along with materials for writing messages.

NIGHT OF TRIBUTE… GV Hospice Care invite everyone in the community to attend the second Community Candlelight Memorial on May 22, 5.30-6.30pm. Pictured are lit candles with messages by the lake from last year’s memorial. Photo: Supplied

The atmosphere will be enriched by live music by local talents, Nigel Parsons and Alexander McKinnon from Goulburn Valley Brass and Drums. Lion’s Club Mooroopna will host a complimentary barbecue, while a coffee van will serve hot beverages. Complimentary bottles of water will also be provided.

Wendy Ross, executive manager of GV Hospice, emphasised the inclusive nature of the event. She said, “We hope to have many people come and spend time with other members of the community to remember and celebrate their loved ones.”

Renowned community figure, Ian Bull OAM will serve as the Master of Ceremonies, guiding attendees through a program. Mr Bull said, “The opportunity for a family to formally and respectfully say their goodbyes, to give thanks and to celebrate a life lived … is a very important part of the grieving and healing processes. This memorial event will hopefully provide a sense of comfort and re-assurance to those who are still hurting, in the knowledge that our community stands with them.”

In case of inclement weather, the event will be relocated to GV Hospice at 102 Balaclava Road, with updates available on the organisation’s website and Facebook page.

REFLECT, RECONNECT… The Community Candlelight Memorial is an opportunity to say goodbye to loved ones, to give thanks and to celebrate a life lived, with the support of family, friends and the community. Photo: Supplied