Despite chilly conditions during dawn services across the state, returned servicemen and women and community members across Cranbourne enjoyed sunny conditions as part of the morning ANZAC Day march and service.
Held at the Greg Clydesdale Square on Tuesday, April 25, hundreds of local residents turned out for the service, watching a number of military groups, community organisations, emergency service representatives and school students march down High Street.
Attendees included Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards and South-Eastern Metropolitan MP Michael Galea.
Dandenong-Cranbourne Returned and Services League (RSL) vice-president Bill Shepherd said the turnout was positive, especially seeing the “fantastic turnout” at the dawn service earlier in the morning.
“It’s great to see so many people here,” he said.
The service’s guest speaker was Holt MP Cassandra Fernando, who spoke about the significance of the ANZAC spirit.
“It lives on in the defence forces today,” she said.
“The Anzacs reinforce that it is not the size of the army that matters, it is the determination of the soldiers.
“Their dedication sets an example for us all.”
Ms Fernando said it was essential for Australia and New Zealand to never forget the sacrifices its soldiers had made.
“We are all united in a love for this country,” she said.
“We must never forget the profound impact that war has on our society.
“Let us commit to become a more inclusive and just society.”
A number of locals from community groups, schools and emergency service representatives laid wreaths at the Cranbourne cenotaph as part of the service, while Jamie Rolfe performed ‘The Last Post’ and ‘The Rouse’ on the bugle.
