Private James MARTIN - Our Youngest ANZAC

The Hut will not be open on 24 APRIL for Happy Hour as we prepare for ANZAC Day 

Throughout our short history, we've had many heroes, some named and many others who served with anonymity. Most of us have no knowledge of Private James Martin.

Just a boy, with the fervour of a patriot and much older men. He was not the only youngster to enlist and end up in action during the first World War, but was the youngest.

As we near ANZAC Day, it's timely to remember James and the sacrifice he and his family made.

Private James Martin, 14 years old

In the editor's view, anyone who served in a combat role on our behalf is a hero. Here is a video about James and his short life. Stop the video if you haven't had time to read the text.

Private James Martin Youngest ANZAC

What to expect on ANZAC Day at Tanunda

Have you visited us yet? Fridays from 5 pm at Tanunda Recreational Park. Visitors are welcome. 

If you join us for ANZAC Day on 25 April 2026, and we hope you do, this is our program:

 

6:15am - the haunting sounds of RSL Tanunda’s Lone Piper, Alistair McCallum, commences RSL Tanunda’s ANZAC Day Dawn Service at the Memorial Gardens, corner Murray and Bridge Streets Tanunda.

 

6:30am - the Dawn Service begins commemorating all Australians and New Zealanders who served and died in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations, and to reflect on the contribution and suffering of all those who have served.

 

7:00am - the Dawn Service concludes with The Ode, followed by The Last Post and the New Zealand and Australian National Anthems as the morning sun rises and heralds in the dawn of a new day. Lutheran Homes Barossa’s Pastor Lutz will lead the service. Tanunda Town Band will provide musical accompaniment for the Tanunda Liedertafel and NZ Army veteran, Shelley Spencer will play The Last Post.

 

Immediately after the Dawn Service, the traditional Gunfire Breakfast is served at 'The Hut', RSL Tanunda's clubrooms located at the Tanunda Recreation Park. The menu includes egg and bacon rolls, barista coffee, a tot of rum courtesy of Tony Pasin MP, and juice for children.

 

10:45 - 11:00am - Veteran’s March. Veterans and others who wish to march gather in Basedow Road near the corner of Murray Street at 10:45am and step-off at 11:00am accompanied by Barossa Pipes and Drums. Marchers pass dignitaries located at the Tanunda rotunda down Bilyara Road, into the Tanunda Recreational Park ending at The Hut.

The salute is being taken by our most senior member, Colonel Evan Allanson (Ret), centenarian veteran, Esther Whitelum, and its Vietnam veteran Vice-President Patsy Biscoe AM.

 

Please join RSL Tanunda to commemorate this most important of days.

 

Lest we forget!

The Australian Defence Force Acquires Unmanned Drones

If you haven't visited us yet, you're missing out. Fridays from 5 pm at Tanunda Recreational Park. Visitors welcome; 

By: Bethany Alvaro

Defence Connect New drones have been introduced to artillery personnel at Puckapunyal, Victoria.

Two new uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) have been delivered to Aussie soldiers for testing as a part of the DEF 129 UAS project. 

The new drones, the SYPAQ CorvoX and Quantum Vector, offer a range of advanced features and capabilities as Australia continues to look to the use of drones for defensive capabilities.

 “UAS provides a wide range of utility to artillery and combined arms,” said Major Daniel Fleming from the School of Artillery. “The most significant would be in the ability to locate, identify and assist in the prosecution of targets. “Both the CorvoX and Vector can provide grid references and descriptions of the targets, allowing for personnel to search larger areas for targets from relative safety.”

The CorvoX drone features electro optical/infrared payload and thermal imaging, making it operable and efficient in dark, fog, and smoke environments.

“SYPAQ CorvoX is a small and robust system, which is quick to employ and delivers a good electro optical and infrared video feed,” MAJ Fleming said.

Quantum Vector offers a 2-in-1 fixed-wing vertical take-off and landing feature, and is effective in delivering intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance video in real time. “While a bit larger, the Vector 2-in-1 can also be rapidly deployed to fly for up to three hours and at a range of 15 kilometres. “Vector is a very user-friendly experience, which will easily replace Wasp and Puma systems.”

These new UAS are expected to be introduced into general service in the Australian Defence Force soon.