Music that entertained Australia’s Vietnam troops will take people back to the 1960s during the Red Poppy dinner organised by the Mount Macedon Anzac Day dawn service committee.
Held in the lead-up to the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan, this year’s charity dinner at Braemar College, Woodend on April 22 will include a speech from decorated platoon commander David Sabben.
The school’s Jackson Hall will be transformed for the event, with plants recreating the jungle environs of the Vietnam conflict. Tables will be decorated with red poppies knitted for a Woodend library project.
Event spokeswoman Helen Relph said Braemar students had again taken a key role.
‘‘From the school’s cadets through to music and art students, they’re putting a lot of effort in,’’ Ms Relph said.
Athol Guy and music director Shaun Evans are working on a program that includes popular tunes from Vietnam-era performers, such as Col Joye, Little Patty, Lorrae Desmond, Ian Turpie and Normie Rowe.
‘‘Students will also project a lot of great footage from the era onto the wall as part of that,’’ Ms Relph said.
Last year’s dinner raised $10,000. Tickets to this year’s dinner are strictly limited. Cost: $100 (includes canapes, three-course dinner and drinks).
Click here for bookings. Details: 0419 022 922.
