Legacy Centenary Torch Relay reaches Sydney

 Our commitment to veterans

The Legacy Remembrance Ceremony at the Anzac War Memorial in Hyde Park, Sydney.

This week, the Legacy Torch Relay had its grand arrival in Sydney, with Nick de Bont, our Chief Security Officer and Chair of the Thales Veterans Committee, representing Thales Australia as our Torch Bearer.

In 2023, Legacy, the iconic Australian charity celebrating its centenary, embarked on the Legacy Centenary Torch Relay, commencing on April 23rd in Pozières, France. The Torch travelled through London, the only Legacy Club outside Australia, before returning to our nation and visiting all 44 Legacy Clubs.

A sunny Sydney morning saw the Torch being lit in the Flame of Remembrance at the Anzac Memorial in Hyde Park, where a touching remembrance ceremony took place. This event symbolised the eternal Legacy 'Promise' to the families of past, present, and future veterans, with families, veterans, Australian Defence Force personnel, and the public coming together to pay their respects.

The ceremony was graced by the presence of the Governor of NSW, Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC, along with former Governor General, General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK CVO MC (Retd), and the Honourable Matt Thistlethwaite MP, Assistant Minister for Defence and Veterans Affairs.

In addition to Nick carrying the Torch, the Legacy flame was carried across the harbour city by 22 Torch Bearers, including Legacy widows, volunteer Legatees, junior beneficiaries and Australian Defence Force personnel.

Nick de Bont, Chair of the Thales Veterans Committee, and Colonel in the Australian Army Reserve in front of "YININMADYEMI Thou didst let fall," an artwork by Aboriginal artist Tony Albert which acknowledges the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men and women who served in our nation’s military.

On carrying the Torch, Nick said,

I felt a profound gratitude for the thousands of volunteer legatees that have assisted veterans and their families over 100 years. During the walk I also reflected on the shared journey that everyone that works within Thales Australia takes with our Veterans – providing them with the best equipment and platforms that directly supports their courage and service. It makes you proud to be part of that journey."

This remarkable opportunity not only highlights Thales Australia's commitment to making a positive impact on our community but also emphasises the dedication of our leadership team to important social causes.

The Legacy torch was carried onboard HMAS Supply at Garden Island Defence Precinct Sydney.

Thales has a rich history in Sydney, with the ADF hosting Legacy on HMAS Supply at our Garden Island site. The occasion was attended by ADF personnel from the Australian Navy, Royal Australian Airforce, Australian Army, and Legacy, with their Chairman Eric Easterbrook, who expressed gratitude for Thales' long-standing support as a partner, making the relay possible. Having the Torch pass through Garden Island holds great significance, as our Thales site plays a vital role in protecting our nation.

Beyond the honour of carrying the torch, Nick’s involvement further strengthened the bond between Thales and the veteran community. Our partnership with Legacy symbolises our commitment to organisations that are purpose led and have a profound impact on the lives of those in need.

Following the Sydney leg of the relay, the Torch will continue its journey through NSW, culminating in the finale in Canberra in October. For more information on the relay, visit the Legacy Centenary Torch Relay site here.

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