BE A part of history, when hundreds of uniformed soldiers from the 3CER Townsville will march through the Airlie Beach Main Street, on Saturday, May 11, 2024.
Building on the Freedom to the City, bestowed upon the 3CER on November 10, 2017, in heartfelt recognition of their invaluable assistance following Tropical Cyclone Debbie, the event incorporates the exercise of the Freedom of Entry, as its second component.
The Defence Force event is being supported by Whitsunday Regional Council, which is assisting with road closures and other organisational elements.
This year’s Freedom of Entry, in Airlie Beach, is an extra special celebration, as it will be the first granting of Freedom of Entry to the Whitsunday Region.
The parade will march through the streets of Airlie Beach, forming on Broadwater Avenue before marching along Main Street, briefly halting for a special challenge to their right of entry.
The procession will then continue along Main Street and conclude at the Airlie Beach Foreshore (Coconut Grove).
Up to 150 uniformed personnel will be involved in the parade, led by a Senior Australian Defence Force Officer, stepping off from Broadwater Avenue at 9.30am and continuing along Main Street.
The parade will be halted by a senior police officer, who will formally grant permission to enter before the procession continues to the Airlie Beach Main Street, where the Mayor will inspect the troops.
In what promises to be a truly impressive sight, the Freedom of Entry parade is not to be missed and members of the public are encouraged to line the streets.
A community gathering will be held after the Freedom of Entry, at the Airlie Beach Foreshore, including markets and an Australian Defence Force display.
Roads will be closed for this event. Visit council’s website to find out more www.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/news/article/262/freedom-of-entry-2024.
