General News
7 May, 2024
ANZAC DAY 2024 - Respect for those who fell
Cold weather and anticipation of rain didn't stop locals and visitors showing up at Anzac Park to honour and remember the fallen.
The event began with a march along Scott Street, where Warracknabeal Scouts and Cubs led, followed by veterans, family members and more.
Warracknabeal RSL sub-branch president Graeme Massey welcomed the crowd at the gates of Anzac Park for a wreath-laying ceremony.
Veterans, school captains and Yarriambiack Shire mayor Kylie Zanker were among those to lay wreaths.
Warracknabeal and District Band played softly as the ceremony continued, and bagpipes played at the end.
Mr Massey recited the Anzac Requiem and encouraged audience members to stand and sing along as the Old Hundredth and O Valiant Hearts hymns were played by the band.
This year Rod Gardam was the guest speaker.
Mr Gardam outlined his time at Butterworth Rifle Company in Malaysia during the war, starting at just 17 years old.
He was deployed on two tours and said "once a solider, always a solider".
After a silent tribute, musical director of Warracknabeal and District Band Jason Wright played the Last Post, which echoed throughout the park.
Mr Wright is training band member Joshua Nuske to play the next Last Post, and said he hoped he would be ready in time for Remembrance Day.
The Last Post was followed by Reveille, then God Save the King and the Australian national anthem, with audience members fin full voice.
Once Mr Massey had thanked those involved in the march or attending the service, the crowd dispersed for another year.
Brim remembers: page 8.