By Olivia Condous
Local RSL clubs are gearing up for a big return to Anzac Day activities, after restrictions from the pandemic prevented regular commemorations for the past two years.
Melton RSL Sub-Branch president Stephen Cook said this April 25 would be about the well-loved Anzac Day being back to normal.
“It’s mainly about the fact that we’re back, for the last two years things were different and the driveway services were lovely and wonderful,”
“But being able to march with your mates and kids being able to march with their parents on a day that honours their sacrifice and service to Australia is something that people look forward to,” Mr Cook said.
The Melton RSL will hold a 6am dawn service on High Street outside the Civic Centre, with several thousand residents expected to attend.
The service will be followed by a traditional Gunfire Breakfast, where all are welcome to attend.
The Anzac Day parade will finally return, with veterans, members of the Australian Army, the Sunshine Band and more marching together to the cenotaph, followed by another service.
Mr Cook said the Melton RSL were looking forward to connecting with new veterans and the community engaging with local veterans on the day.
“A lot of the time we have veterans in the community that we don’t know about, so that’s a great chance to engage with them on the day,” he said.
“As a veteran, I love it, it’s my day and every veteran feels the same way.”
Melton RSL will also sell badges outside Coles Woodgrove and Bunnings to go towards further support for local veterans.
The Caroline Springs RSL Sub-Branch will also hold a dawn service on Lake Street at 6:30am as well as a Gunfire Breakfast afterwards.
The dawn service held by the Ballan RSL Sub-Branch will be at 6am at Mclean Reserve, as well as a commemorative march to the local cenotaph.
Mr Cook encouraged residents from the Melton & Moorabool Shire areas to get involved and join in on the day.
“Please come out and be a part of a wonderful Australian tradition, honouring our past and present military personnel, be a part of the fantastic commemoration that is Anzac Day.”
