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Maclean RSL farewells digger

Mick O’Reilly was never one to miss an ANZAC Day service, this photo was taken during last year’s service. Image: Lynne Mowbray
The passing of Michael (Mick) O’Reilly came as a shock to his many friends who were looking forward to celebrating with him on his 100th birthday this coming May. Over his long life Mick had been involved in many community causes but his commitment to the RSL was probably exceptional amongst them. Mick joined the RSL in 1946, the same year that he discharged from the AIF after WWII, and for the next 71 years he was a stalwart of the Maclean RSL sub-branch and the Maclean Services Club. He was made a patron of both organisations in recognition of his service. Mick enlisted in the Army in 1942 and was a sapper in the 34th Australian Works Company while serving in New Guinea from 1943 to 1944. In recent years he was a resident of the Mareeba Nursing Home but as a veteran he was never one to miss an ANZAC Day service. Mick will be sadly missed by his friends and comrades when they gather again on April 25. ‘Lest we forget’.