On a gusty Friday morning beneath grey skies and and rustling gum leaves, hundreds of Craigieburn locals gathered at Anzac Park to mark one of the most sacred days on the national calendar– Anzac Day.
Among the crowd were veterans, members of council, school children, families and other local leaders to honour those who served and especially those who never returned home.
Wreaths were laid with care, children clutched poppies, and veterans stood tall, medals glinting against dark jackets as they proudly stood by the memorial stone.
The service honoured the brave Australian and New Zealand men and women who served and died in wars, conflicts and peace keeping operations, with particular reverence for those who made the ultimate sacrifice during the Gallipoli campaign in 1915.
For Craigieburn residents, it’s a time to stand still, bow heads, and remember the sacrifices that underpins the freedoms of modern Australia.
One of the morning’s most stirring moments came as Major Brian Coward delivered a moving address, offering a vivid glimpse into the bravery of those who landed at Gallipoli 110 years ago.
“On the day of the landing, 12,000 Australians, 4,000 New Zealanders, and 8,000 men from Britain and France would come through,” Mr Coward said.
“The third brigade, the all- Australian brigade, would come to shore at dawn– they were the spearheads that would clear the way of the main source of fire.
“Despite the chaotic landing, the brigade bravely and courageously started to fire within the first few hours. They encountered fierce resistance from the Turkish soldiers. They endured heavy artillery fire for the length of the campaign.”
His words hung heavy in the air as the crowd continued to silently and respectfully watch on.
“Australians new and old have got to be grateful for the generations of men and women who have served and who are still serving,” Mr Coward said.
“So many sacrificed their lives for us.”
Craigieburn schools also played a key role at the service, with students contributing poems and readings to honour the Anzacs – ensuring the stories of courage and mate-ship are passed down through the generations.
Shortly after the last poem and despite the wind tugging at scarves and rattling flag poles, the crowd stood in solemn silence as The Last Post echoed through the park.
Long-time Craigieburn resident Margaret Newman highlighted the importance of the day, stating she had barely missed a service since moving to the suburb in the late 1970’s.
“It doesn’t matter how cold or windy it is, I’m bloody freezing today, but we come to honour them,” Ms Newman said.
“It’s about respect, when the bugle plays and everyone goes completely quiet and still…you really feel it. That says more than words ever could.”
