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VetRide 2016 Honours Our Vietnam Veterans

21 December 2015

A national cycling event open to the public will honour the 521 Australian veterans killed in the Vietnam War.

Minister for Veterans John Eren joined Bob Elworthy AM at the Shrine of Remembrance to announce the week-long tour that begins in Seymour and ends in Canberra.

Entries to VetRide 2016 are now open, and everyone can get involved. The tour is a great way to make friends, get healthy and honour the servicemen and women who defended our nation. Past and present Australian Defence Force members will receive a discount on their entry fees.

Next year marks the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan, where 108 brave young men from D Company RAR resisted an attack of more than 1500 Viet Cong soldiers in what became one of the most extraordinary chapters in Australia’s military history.

VetRide 2016 kicks off along Seymour’s Vietnam Veterans Commemorative Walk, before visiting Benalla, Bandiana, Kapooka, Cootamundra and Yass on the way to Canberra. The tour finishes at the Australian Vietnam Forces National Memorial in Canberra.

Many Victorians have a connection with war and a story to tell. The 50th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan is a chance for Victoria to remember and reflect on the impacts of the Vietnam War, and pay tribute to those who served there.

The Vietnam Veterans Association Australia Victoria Branch and the Labor Government are delivering a thoughtful program of activities across the state to honour the servicemen who were involved in the Vietnam War.

VetRide2016 begins on March 14 and ends March 20. For more information visit www.vetride.orgExternal Link

Quotes attributable to Minister for Veterans John Eren

“VetRide2016 is a great opportunity to make friends, see new parts of our great country, enjoy a healthy lifestyle and commemorate the servicemen and women who did us proud.”

“Some 521 Australians were killed in the Vietnam War. It’s forever etched in our nation’s story.”

“Many Victorians have a connection with war and a story to tell. The 50th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan is a chance to reflect on the most decisive moments in Australia’s history.”

Quotes attributable to VVAA Victorian Branch State President Bob Elworthy AM

“The Victorian VetRide Service and Sacrifice Route is an important part of our commemorative activities in 2016, honouring those who were involved in the Vietnam War.”

“It connects Vietnam war service with all those who fought in any conflict which Australia was engaged.”

Reviewed 10 February 2021

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