Anzac Day honoured in Ocean Grove

THOUSANDS of people turned out to Anzac Day services in Ocean Grove, pausing to pay their respects.

The Ocean Grove Barwon Heads RSL Sub-branch led a dawn service at 6am, followed by a march and service beginning at 9.45am.

More than 2,000 people attended the march and service at the Cenotaph in Ocean Grove Park with the march led by World War 2 Royal Australian Air Force Veteran Roy Porter.

The March was accompanied by the Geelong RSL Pipes and Drums as it arrived at the Cenotaph in Ocean Grove.

Ocean Grove Barwon Heads RSL Sub-branch President Phil Edwards led the service, while Lieutenant Matthew Portelli was the guest speaker.

Mr Edwards was happy with the turnout at both services, noting that it was great to see younger members of the community attending.

“It’s great to see them there, maintaining the commemoration and recognition of service,” he said.

“Thank you to all that came and showed their appreciation for the veterans.”

The service included a Catafalque and Flag Party from the 8th/7th Battalion Alpha Company, The Geelong Concert Band and the Coryule Choir.

Around 2000 people also attended the dawn service which included a piper and bugler, followed by tea and a light breakfast provided by the Rotary Club of Ocean Grove and the RSL members.

There was also a march and service held in Barwon heads by the Ocean Grove Barwon Heads RSL Sub-branch.

Other Anzac Day services on the Bellarine included Portarlington, Leopold, St. Leonards, Drysdale and Queenscliff.