Cronulla RSL Honours War Animals with Special Ceremony in Cronulla Park

Cronulla RSL hosted a touching War Animal Day Ceremony on February 22nd, 2025, paying tribute to the often overlooked heroes of war, our animals. The event, held in Cronulla Park, saw a gathering of esteemed guests, including The Hon. Mark Speakman, Sutherland Shire Council, Cronulla RSL, Cronulla Sub-Branch, Engadine Sub-Branch, The NSW Mounted & Dog Police, Paws Pet Therapy, Veterinary Specialists of Sydney, local school students, and members of the community. Honorary Cronulla RSL Members Manic and Aslan, retired military working dogs, were also in attendance.

The ceremony, akin to ANZAC Day, witnessed attendees adorned with purple poppies in remembrance of the countless animals who served alongside soldiers in times of conflict. In 2019, Australia declared February 24th as its official War Animal Day, a day dedicated to honoring these courageous companions.

In addition, the Cronulla ceremony also honours animals on our own shores, who are used to perform duties in our police and border force, such as patrols, special operations, parades, and escorts. Australian police dogs are amongst the best trained in the world, crucially important in the detection of drugs, firearms/explosives, and human remains. The Ceremony was attended by Sergeant Brett Pearson and Police Dog Errol, Senior Constable Lauren Fisher and Explosive Detection Dog Blue, Sergeant Melinda Murray and Troop Horse Darcy, Leading Senior Constable Tanya WIilliams and Troop Horse Lofty.

Speaking on the importance of commemorating war animals, Nathan Whiteside, CEO at Cronulla RSL, remarked, "It is estimated that more than 8 million animals perished during WW1 alone. Today, we honour their sacrifice and recognise the invaluable role they played in times of conflict."

‘War Animal Day Is an important time for reflection, allowing us to recognise a part of war that is often forgotten—the animals that so faithfully serve us. At Cronulla RSL, we are proud to create an opportunity for these courageous animals receive the recognition they deserve. Their service and sacrifice should never be overlooked” said Whiteside.

The ceremony included a reading of the official War Animal Day poem by students from Cronulla High School, as well as a moving poem penned by Vietnam Veteran, Paul Zaat.

Also recognised was the story of Kuga, a courageous military working dog who, during his second tour of Afghanistan in 2011, detected a threat across a river and, despite being shot five times, neutralized an insurgent before returning to his handler. Despite extensive medical care, he succumbed to his injuries in 2012. For his bravery, Kuga was posthumously awarded the Dickin Medal, the highest military honor for animals, often called the animal Victoria Cross. His legacy serves as a powerful reminder of the courage and loyalty of animals in conflict.

The event, which follows similar protocols as ANZAC Day, saw attendees participate in the solemn tradition of laying wreaths as a tribute to the animals of war. This contributed to a vibrant and colorful display adorning the Clubs’ War Animal memorial garden, the first of its kind in NSW, further honoring the enduring memory of these noble creatures. Attendees were encouraged to bring their four-legged companions to join in paying respects, further fostering a sense of unity and remembrance within the community. Local skateboarding dog sensation, Giotto, also made an appearance on the day.

As a testament to the enduring importance of War Animal Day, Cronulla RSL affirmed its commitment to commemorating this significant occasion annually, ensuring that the sacrifices of these brave animals are never forgotten. This is in addition to the Club's ongoing fundraising efforts to support animals impacted by war, further demonstrating its dedication to this important cause.

Both retired Military Working Dogs Manic and Aslan are honorary members of Cronulla RSL. Recognising the need for ongoing support, the Club acknowledges that when these highly trained animals retire from service, the duty of care of the the Australian Defence Force ends, and the responsibility for their care falls entirely on the families who take them in. The families of these dogs are members of Cronulla RSL, and the Club has been deeply committed to raising awareness and funds to assist them.

To date, Cronulla RSL has raised $29,000 to support retired Military Working Dogs and animals impacted by War, through the Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation. Local businesses are now joining the cause. Business Santa Pics, generously donated a percentage of their sales during the Christmas period, contributing $2,344.28 to the fundraising efforts. These initiatives reflect the growing community support for these incredible animals who have given so much in service.

For more information about Cronulla RSL and its initiatives to recognise and suppport animals impacted by war, please visit the following websites: www.cronullarslcommunity.com.au/waranimalday
https://www.cronullarslcommunity.com.au/wardogs

Manic:
Manic is a Belgian Malinois who has served with distinction for six years as a Combat Assault Dog with the 2nd Commando Regiment, Special Operations Command Australia. His service included deployments to the Middle East, where he provided mission assistance to Australian training teams and supported multiple coalition forces. Manic’s commitment to the Army also included three years of service with the Tactical Assault Group. Known for his courage and unwavering dedication, Manic became a vital member of every team he worked with.

Now retired, Manic continues to serve as an ambassador for military working dogs, supporting various Returned Service Leagues and charity organisations. He advocates for greater recognition and support for retired Military Working Dogs while also enjoying retired life. Through his efforts, Cronulla RSL has raised over $29,000 to assist animals impacted by war.

Aslan:
Aslan dedicated six years to serving as a Combat Assault Dog with the 2nd Commando Regiment, Special Operations Command Australia. His service took him to the USA, where he played an integral role in supporting Australian training teams and assisting multiple coalition forces. In addition, Aslan contributed to the Tactical Assault Group for three years, showcasing extraordinary devotion and steadfast courage throughout his career. After surviving a battle with cancer, Aslan dedicates his retirement to raising awareness of the severe impact of this disease on canines and promoting health and longevity practices for not only Military Working Dogs in retirement but for all dogs.

Contact: Natalie Hawkins, Community Projects Manager 02 8582 5000