Melbourne veterans celebrate community with colorful parade

On Sunday, military veterans in Melbourne participated in a unique parade that celebrated community and creativity. The event, called the Festival of Veterans Arts Family Colour Parade, featured colorful clothing instead of military uniforms and was accompanied by a New Orleans-style jazz band. Many joggers along the Tan track enjoyed the festive atmosphere. The parade aimed to promote veterans' wellbeing. Eamon Hale, a former soldier who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, joined the event with his family. He emphasized the importance of social connections for veterans, noting that it can save lives. Hale said many ex-soldiers struggle with mental health issues and can feel isolated. The colour parade is new and different from the more formal events on Anzac Day. Organizers hope it will become an annual tradition. The parade is part of a 10-day festival that includes workshops and public events focusing on storytelling, painting, and ceramics. Mark Johnston, the director of the Australian National Veterans Arts Museum, shared that the event and festival aim to celebrate the veteran community. He highlighted the contributions veterans have made beyond their military service, especially during challenging times like bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants like Murray Pearson, a veteran of East Timor, appreciated the parade as a social gathering that fosters connection among veterans. He stated that events like this are important for sharing experiences and building community among those who have served.