“Pigeons and doves have been symbolic representatives of love and peace,and it was thought at that time that it was a great fitting tribute to release the birds,” Shrine chief executive Dean Lee said.
Pigeons and homing birds played an important role in conveying messages across battlefields in World War I,while also representing peacetime,Mr Lee said.
The release of 100 homing pigeons from the Shrine this year would reflect this,he said. “We thought what a great way to reconnect with our roots as we welcome people back to the Shrine post-COVID.”
Every year,at 11am on November 11,the Shrine marks the anniversary of the signing of the armistice,although last year thecommemoration was limited because of coronavirus pandemic restrictions.
In November 2020,only Victorian Governor Linda Dessau and a single soldier were able to stand before the Stone of Remembrance within the Shrine’s sanctuary.
This year 3800 fully vaccinated people will be able to attend the ceremony,a number Mr Lee said was consistent with pre-COVID Remembrance Days.