Thousands gathered in Geelong’s CBD on Tuesday 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.
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.”Norlane honoured the many men and women who served our country with great weather and a huge community turnout.
Hundreds of people attended Norlane RSL Sub-branch march and service.
The service was also attended by special guests Member for Lara Ella George and Geelong deputy mayor Anthony Aitken.
“April 25 marks the landing of the Anzacs at Gullapalli in 1915,” Ms George said.
“This was the first major military campaign in Australia and New Zealand.
“The campaign was a baptism of fire for the Anzacs, and despite the odds, they displayed remarkable courage, resilience and camaraderie.
“On Anzac Day we honour the memory of the Anzacs and all who have served and sacrificed for the defence of our nation, values, freedoms and way of life.”
Norlane RSL raised close to $15,000 for Anzac House to assist war veterans and their families.
In Torquay, thousands attended the dawn service at Point Danger while RSL sub-branches across the region, including Ocean Grove and Lara, reported good numbers at their services.
