Lest we forget

OVER 400 people faced a cold morning to attend this year’s Dawn Service at Toodyay’s Anzac Memorial Park.

Local violinist Rupert Guenther played the Last Post as cadets lowered flags to half-mast.

The Anzac Dedication was read by Toodyay RSL President Max Howard.

 

“At this hour, on this day, in 1915, ANZAC received its baptism of fire and became one of
the immortal names of history.

We who are gathered here think of comrades who, then and since, fought for freedom on
land, sea and in the air, but did not return.

It is fitting that we should keep this vigil together, in remembrance and in gratitude.

We feel them still near us in spirit.

We wish to be worthy of their great sacrifice.

Let us therefore, once again dedicate ourselves to the service of the ideals for which they died.

As the dawn is even now about to pierce the night, so let their memories inspire us to work for the coming of a new light into dark places.”

After the Dawn Service a Gunfire Breakfast was served at the Wicklow Shearing Shed by the Toodyay Lions Club.

The main Anzac Parade then started midmorning from the Toodyay Memorial Hallfinishing at Anzac Memorial Park for the morning service.

Douglas McGhee, Toodyay District High School Chaplain recited the Prayer of Remembrance which in part states:

“We also think of the war in the world at the moment, and we ask for peace, and protection
for those who are suffering.

Help us to be grateful and be peacemakers today in our Toodyay community, to stand for justice and kindness, so that we would honour our soldiers and their sacrifice.”

The Ode was read by Max Howard and the national anthems of Australia and New Zealand
were sung.

After the morning service a large crowd gathered at the Toodyay Club for lunch and refreshments.

Lest we forget.