Stan Gleeson, 92, officiated his final flag-raising ceremony at the Neerim South Remembrance Day service last week.
Mr Gleeson took over the role 20 years ago from John Wyke, whom he had assisted for several years. Before that, Harold Tucker and George Linuss maintained the tradition. The flag raising honour will be now taken over by Mr Gleeson's successor Bob Raymount.
Initially focused on ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day, Mr Gleeson expanded the practice to include Australia Day, the Queen's Birthday, and other significant Australian, local and state events. He also lowered the flag to half-mast for significant deaths.
Mr Gleeson represented both the RSL and the Neerim South community. He created vessels and wreaths where children and adults could place poppies or ANZAC badges during ceremonies. His great-grandson Riley Willis, grandson of Frank Gleeson, assisted at ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day ceremonies.
Above: Extended family and friends supported Stan Gleeson (centre) for his final flag raising ceremony including Riley Willis, George McLaughlan, Bonnie Barker and Leah Gibson.
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