We will remember them

ONE of the most significant dates on the Australian calendar, and in our history, is drawing closer, and local RSL sub-branches are calling on the Moorabool community to band together.

Anzac Day next Thursday 25 April will see services and marches take place across the Shire, with five towns publicly commemorating the day.

In Bacchus Marsh, the traditional Dawn Service and wreath laying ceremony will take place at the Village Green commencing at 5.50am, followed by a Gunfire Breakfast.

Later in the day, all current and ex-service personnel, as well as members of the community wishing to honour serving or fallen family members, will be invited to march from the Bacchus Marsh Hospital car park from 9.30am, with the march concluding at the Village Green about 10am.

Coimadai will also hold a commemoration service commencing at 12pm.

Further west, Ballan will hold its Dawn Service at A.A. McLean Reserve commencing at 6am, followed by a Gunfire Breakfast.

A march will assemble at the Ballan RSL Hall at 12.45pm for a 1pm step-off, with a cenotaph service, including wreath laying, taking place at 125 Inglis Street at 1.15pm.

In Myrniong, an informal service including wreath laying will take place at the Myrniong Memorial Wall at 6am, with Blackwood also holding a service at 6am, at St Marin’s Chapel and Blackwood War Memorial.

Presidents of the Bacchus Marsh and Ballan RSL sub-branches said it was important for local veterans and active servicepeople to see their service and sacrifices acknowledged each Anzac Day.

“Anzac Day allows members of the community, no matter where they live, to come together and reflect, remember and respect the servicemen, servicewomen, and the service animals as well,” Bacchus Marsh RSL president Michael Baxter said.

“Some of these have paid the ultimate sacrifice. The day also allows people the opportunity to remember their mates, and who they served alongside, both at home and abroad.

“Veterans appreciate the community for showing them that they respect the freedom our great country has today, and their service from World War I to the current day.”

Ballan RSL president Pippa Morris said Backwood will be holding its second Dawn Service in living memory, possibly ever.

“We’re expecting really good crowds,” she said. “This year we’ve invited the local primary schools and fire brigades to march with us during the afternoon march.

“We’re also pleased to have Mayor Cr Ally Munari, Member for Hawke Sam Rae, and Member for Eureka Michaela Settle joining us.”