Thousands gathered in Geelong’s CBD this morning to pay their respects to those who have served, and still do serve, our country in the Australian Defence Force.
The crowds lined Malop Street for the 11am march toward Johnstone Park, respectfully applauding servicemen and -women and those who marched in their place to the sounds of the Geelong RSL Pipes and Drums.
The march ended at Johnstone Park, passing the Geelong Peace Memorial to gather before the Hitchcock Memorial Bandstand for the Anzac Day service.
The service was conducted by Geelong RSL president Andrew Hanns and featured addresses by deputy prime minister and defence minister Richard Marles and Geelong deputy mayor Anthony Aitken.
MPs Christine Couzens and Darren Cheeseman, and Greater Geelong councillors Melissa Cadwell and Eddy Kontelj were also in attendance.
Guest speaker Major Mark Cowan-Aston also spoke to the crowd about the meaning and importance of Anzac Day.
“I’ve heard people say that by celebrating Anzac Day we seek in some way to glorify war; nothing could be further from the truth,” Major Cowan-Aston said.
“The serving members and ex-serving members amongst us will know that no one knows the horror of war like the soldier, the sailor or the airman. To use our vernacular, a bloke would be a mug to covet war and its unparalleled ability to create pain, suffering and sorrow.
“But…the horrors of war also bring out the finest aspects of the human condition. Characteristics like courage, commitment, loyalty, trust, empathy, and let’s not forget that great Australian sense of humour that pulls us all through those difficult times.
“Anzac Day is not just a solemn walk to a grey stone monument. It is that, and we must never forget those who served and those who fell.
“But Anzac Day is also a celebration of Australia. It’s a celebration of a caring, living, zestful life; our Australian life and everything that that means to this beautiful country.”
