
COMMUNITY commemorations began in pre-dawn darkness this morning to recognise the sacrifice of Australians and their allies in armed conflict.
Dawn services were held at Barham, Cohuna and Kerang.
ANZAC Day commemorations will be held across the district this morning to honour servicemen and women who made the ultimate sacrifice during times of conflict.
Today marks the 102nd anniversary of Australian and New Zealand troops storming the beaches of Gallipoli in Turkey and subsequently became a day to remember all who served during times of conflict.
The spirit of ANZAC, with its qualities of courage, mateship, and sacrifice, continues to have meaning and relevance for our sense of national identity.
Barham and Koondrook’s commemorations will begin at 11am with a march from the Barham Cenotaph to the Returned and Services League sub-branch headquarters at Koondrook prior to an 11.45am service.
Cohuna’s annual service will follow the march from the town’s post office to the Cohuna Memorial Hall, scheduled to start at 9.30am.This year’s event will also include the dedication of a marble statue honouring Cohuna and district’s residents who served in the Vietnam War.
Kerang’s formalities will begin with the march from the clock tower to the town’s Cenotaph at 10am, before the official ceremony at the Kerang Memorial Hall at 10.30am, where Gannawarra mayor, Cr Brian Gibson will be the guest speaker.
Leitchville district residents will gather at Trigg Park at 11am. Garry Helman will be the guest speaker.