Official Opening of Mark Donaldson VC House, Rowland Village, Galston
The official opening of Rowland Village’s new aged care facility, Mark Donaldson VC House, took place today.
It was a moving ceremony, reflecting both the pride Australians have in the sacrifices made by our service personnel and our gratitude to those who paid the ultimate price and gave their lives in service of the nation.
Local Federal MP Philip Ruddock said he was especially proud to share the event with Corporal Mark Donaldson VC the Newcastle-born soldier awarded the Victoria Cross for ‘most conspicuous acts of gallantry as part of the Special Operations Task Group’ in action in Afghanistan in 2008.
‘He is an exemplary soldier and citizen and I thin k it highly fitting that the new facility at Rowland Village should bear his name.’
Mr Ruddock said there is a ‘poignancy’ in having this new unit which will be of such benefit to elderly folk named after a such a brave young man. ‘Age is a gift which many service personnel did not receive. We owe them gratitude and ongoing recognition.’
The official function included the performance of ‘I Am Australian’ by the Galston High School instrumental group ‘Stella Soundz’, official comment from Rod WhiteAM RFD Chairman of RSL Life Care, Don Rowe OAM RSL State President, Philip Ruddock MP and Corporal Mark Donaldson VC.