by WENDYE GRATTON
Photos: LYLE RADFORD
A LARGE crowd attended the Marburg Anzac Day march and service hosted by the Marburg and District Residents Association this year despite the weather concerns.
The site where the service was held had been prepared with shelter in advance by members of the association, local members of the SES and residents.
The parade was led by the Riggs family members dressed in Light Horse Regiment re-enactment gear along with piper, Bradd Witt.
The MC was Cr Jim Madden and Dave Baker looked after the sound.
This year is the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II and the display in the Heritage Centre captured this theme with the story of Sadako and the 1,000 paper cranes being illustrated. The 1,000 cranes were crafted by one of the town residents.
There was also a display of newspaper articles from 1945 showing the end of war celebrations. White poppies were displayed along with other memorabilia.
White poppies are a symbol of peace and ladies from the Glamorgan Vale CWA made a great selection for display as well as Wendye Gratton’s sister and her friends in Rockhampton.
Among those participating in the march and the service were students from Marburg, Haigslea and Glamorgan Vale schools with the school captains having reading parts during the service.
Singers were Brett Hann, Les Birnie and Jo, Dave and Kaleb Baker. The accompanist was Julie Walker.
Our Marburg poet Dennis Cannon again recited a moving poem which suited the occasion.
Stewart Cook gave a moving address on the theme of peace which follows wars.
Henry recited the ode and the Last Post was beautifully played by Ross Johnson who travelled from Redbank to do this important role.
At the conclusion of the service, people gathered and enjoyed morning tea with Anzac biscuits made and donated by community members.
The display of Light Horse gear by Shane Riggs attracted much interest as well as the horses which also enjoyed their share of biscuits.
Marburg and District Residents thank everyone who contributed to this very special commemoration service.
