General News
21 April, 2026
Plaque means a lot
A NEW commemorative plaque has been installed at Farnorah War Veterans Home in Westcourt, ahead of ANZAC Day 2026.
The plaque, provided by the Cairns RSL sub branch, was officially unveiled on 8 April, recognising the service and sacrifice of the elderly veterans who live at the home.
Located at the entrance, the plaque is intended to ensure every visitor, staff member and contractor is reminded of the contribution of Australia’s servicemen and women.
The installation forms part of a broader upgrade, with Farnorah also unveiling a revitalised commemorative area designed as a space for reflection and connection.
The refreshed setting provides residents, families, and the wider community with a place to gather for remembrance and tribute.
Among the residents is veteran Donald Albert Thompson, who served 23 years in the Australian armed forces, including deployments to Korea, Vietnam and Malaya.
“I was actually 19 when I went to Korea,” he said.
Mr Thompson recalled patrolling the border in South Korea.
“I can sort of vaguely remember being on outposts overlooking the Imjin River, which was the boundary between North and South Korea.”
He also described his experience during the Battle of Long Tan in Vietnam. “Long Tan is something that I’ll never, ever forget.
“I was a fire controller … so I travelled with the front troops, yeah. And so, I saw the brunt of the Battle of Long Tan.”
Mr Thompson said the experience of service created strong bonds between soldiers.
“To me, that I’ve always been in the army… I feel that infantry has a close bonding with one another… we just had one another’s backs.”
Resident Nell Riccardi said the new plaque was a meaningful addition to the home.
