More than 700 knitted and crocheted poppies have been “planted” in the Sydney Adventist Hospital’s front garden and lawn, marking the significance of this year’s Remembrance Day.
The bright red poppies are a poignant reminder of the sacrifice of the original Anzacs and the generations of service men and women who have served in war.
This Sunday, November 11, is the 100th anniversary of the end of hostilities in World War I, originally called Armistice Day.
During World War I red poppies were the first plants to grow on the battlefields of Northern France and Belgium. Poppies have become a symbol for the sacrifice of soldiers during warfare and are now featured in many iconic Remembrance Day poems.
“It’s a time for remembering our families,” said volunteer Margaret Whitehall, one of the many San Help Team volunteers who initiated the knitting campaign and were joined by hospital-wide knitters to create the display.
San volunteer Joy Osgood also took the time to reflect on those close to her who have served, including husband George Osgood, a naval officer on HMAS Perth during WWII, and father-in-law Athol Osgood who served in the Army in WWI.
Among the garden of red poppies are a patch of purple poppies to commemorate the service of animals involved in military campaigns, including horses and homing pigeons.
The poppies will be on display until Monday.
