Middle East Area of Operations Commemoration (MEAO) Service

The Gladstone RSL Sub Branch will host a Middle East Area of Operations (MEAO) Commemoration Service at Anzac Park, Gladstone, on Sunday 11 October 2026, commencing at approximately 11:00am. The service marks the 25th anniversary of Australia’s military involvement in the Middle East, which began with Operation Slipper on 11 October 2001.

The commemoration honours Australian Defence Force personnel and civilian staff who served in Middle East conflicts between 2001 and 2021, including Afghanistan, Iraq and Kuwait. The service recognises the sacrifices made by those who served, including the lives lost, injuries sustained, and the ongoing challenges faced by many veterans and their families.

This will be the first MEAO Commemoration Service held in Gladstone, with hopes it will become an annual event. Veterans, students and members of the community are encouraged to attend and show their support.