Community spirit lights up local sports club on Anzac Day

Perth Now

25-04-2025

Quinns Rocks Sports Club was energised with smiles and laughter on Friday afternoon as the community came together for a beer, Two-up, and Anzac Day commemorations.
Playing the Two-up game was army veteran Robert Lambert-Barker, and to him, the event was about 'mateship' and 'reflection'.
'It's once a year and it's a reflection. When I get out there and have a beer and a throw of the coins it's not just about me, it's about everyone who has been there and done that,' he said.
'It's what you can do today, you can't do tomorrow, and you couldn't do yesterday.'
Crowds of all ages gathered at the annual Quinns Rocks Sports Club afternoon event to share in the community spirit.
Daniel Summers stood proudly outside the Two-up ring wearing his father's and grandfather's medals. He said Anzac Day brings people together through storytelling. Daniel Summers and Robert Lambert-Barker. Credit: Ross Swanborough / The West Australian
'You can share stories amongst other peers, people who have been in that background, people who have served and protected,' he said.
The popular family event was perfect for locals to meet new friends and make new connections.
Grant Perry, who moved to WA eight months ago, stood excitedly cheering his new community along as Two-up players threw pennies into the air, hoping to score a win.
'I've never met anyone here, and I've haven't seen a person who's not smiling having a beer together and that's what mateship is all about, 'he said. People playing Two-up on Anzac Day, in Quinns Rocks, Perth. Credit: Ross Swanborough / The West Australian
Quinns Rock Sports Club president Nick Andrews said the turnout was incredible, with an estimated 500-600 people attending the afternoon event.
One of the most notable aspects of the day was the number of children keen to participate.
'It's really good to see families pushing back to their kids about keeping the Anzac spirit alive,' Mr Andrews said.
'We are a very community-orientated club, and we love to invite the community and push really hard to try and involve everyone.'