On the night of 24 April 1918 West Australian (51st Battalion) and other Allied Forces launched a counter-attack partly surrounding the village of Villers-Bretonneux and on 25 April the town was recaptured. Australian, British, and French troops restored the original front line by 27 April.

A number of charges against machine-gun posts helped the Australian advance; in particular, West Australian Lieutenant Clifford Sadlier of the 51st Battalion, was awarded the Victoria Cross, after attacking with hand-grenades. The two brigades swept around Villers-Bretonneux and the Germans retreated, for a while escaping the pocket along a railway cutting. The Australians eventually captured the German positions and pushed the German line back, leaving the German troops in Villers-Bretonneux surrounded. By 25 April, the town had been recaptured and handed back to the villagers. The battle was a great success for the Australian troops, who had defeated the German attempt to capture Amiens and recaptured Villers-Bretonneux while outnumbered; the village remained in Allied hands to the end of the war. In the words of one British general, the Australians ‘saved France’.

The Villers-Bretonneux Cross, made by men of the 51st Battalion, now housed in the Cathedral’s Soldiers’ Chapel, will be on display.

Music for the service is sung by members of the Cathedral Consort.

A special celebration of Holy Communion which includes anointing & laying on of hands with prayer. This service is held on the first Tuesday of every month.

The Cathedral’s popular lunchtime concerts series, Concerts at One, continues today with a performance by Penrhos College.

There is no need to book ahead. Entry is free, with a retiring collection taken.

Families and children are invited to join us in the Cathedral for worship, singing, a Bible story, prayers and craft, and, following the service, to share afternoon tea together in the Burt Memorial Hall.  This service is held on the second Sunday of each month.

If you are able, please bring a plate of food to share.  The Cathedral Pastor, the Reverend Rae Reinertsen, is looking forward to seeing you at this service.

All our supporters, their family and friends are invited to this annual Memorial Service.

This heartening, non-denominational service allows family and friends the chance to come together and remember loved ones who have passed away from heart disease, light a candle in their memory and pay tribute through music and prayer.

RSVP: www.heartfoundation.org.au/events/annual-memorial-service/