Event organiser and Benalla Rural City Australian of the Year June Howard said about 100 people were at the service, which was more than anticipated by the Benalla RSL.
“It was great, we weren’t expecting that,” she said.
“There were a lot of tourists travelling through, and some decided to stay.”
Devenish veteran, and Sally’s owner, Tom Trewin unveiled the memorial on Saturday, November 6, paying tribute to her work in the armed forces after she passed away earlier this year.
Sally joined Mr Trewin during several tours of service in Afghanistan.
Ms Howard said when he returned home Sally was meant to continue to serve.
“From what I heard she refused to work,” she said.
She then came to Devenish to live with Mr Trewin, and the community.
“We just thought ‘what a great idea to have a memorial for her’,” Ms Howard said.
“We consider her our dog and (the memorial) was just beautiful.”
The service was also attended by Yarrawonga poet Trevor Hargreaves who recited The Mongrel Dog.
In April, 2019, Sally and Mr Trewin led the march to the opening of Devenish’s silo art, commemorating those from the town who had served for Australia.
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