Rochy pays tribute to the Anzacs

By Shannon Colee

Apr 26, 2024

Lest we forget: Rochester RSL sub-branch president Cameron Lovering spoke to the crowd about the importance of remembering Anzac Day. Photo: Shannon Colee Photo by Shannon Colee

Hundreds of people gathered in Rochester on Anzac Day on Thursday, April 25 to commemorate those lost in war.

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Rochester RSL sub-branch president Cameron Lovering said that the turnout to both the dawn service and the morning march was spectacular.

“We actually believe this was the highest (Anzac Day) attendance in at least three years. So we’re exceptionally happy with that,” he said.

“We get an enormous amount of support, and I think that just goes to show how many people we’ve seen here at the service (Thursday) compared to how many people we actually have in our community.”

The dawn service took place at the Rochester Cemetery, and then at 10.30am there was a march from Shire Hall to the Rochester RSL Memorial Garden, where a second service was held.

Mr Lovering said the day is about ensuring that service men and women know they have community support. This work doesn’t just happen on April 25 but year-round as well.

“The RSL is doing everything it can to reach every generation of servicemen and women. We want them to understand that they have a home when they leave the defence force,” he said.

“So we are incredibly proactive at getting out into the community and engaging with every single veteran that we know is here.”

Maree Traill received this year’s Spirit of Anzac award. The award honours an individual from the Rochester district who displays character attributes frequently described as portraying the spirit of the Anzac.