Under

By Melissa Meehan
AND in the morning – we will remember them.
And that’s what Pakenham’s community did at the solemn Dawn Service held at the racecourse on Monday.
A bigger crowd than in years past met to remember fallen soldiers among thick fog and a frosty morning.
With Pakenham RSL president Don Buntine away performing with the Royal Australian Navy Band Association at the Kranji War Memorial in Singapore, vice-president Gary Elliott took the reins.
Mr Elliott gave a brief history of The Ode and then read it to the crowd, alongside Pakenham Girl Guides representative Vanessa and Pakenham Secondary College’s Chris.
Mr Elliott said it was great to see young and old faces attend the service, and said this year’s numbers could have been due to the location.
“This is our second year at the racecourse,” he said.
“I think that people knew where it was this year, also helped by the fact we are under cover.”
Standing on the stage, Mr Elliott said it was difficult to guess how many had attended – but said it was wonderful to see the community come together on the special day.
Many wreaths were laid at the memorial in honour of our war heroes followed by a rendition of the Last Post, the observance of one minute’s silence and Reveille.
Others placed their poppies in baskets to mark their respect.
After the official service, those in the crowd were invited to join the Pakenham RSL at their gunfire breakfast provided by Pakenham Rotary.
Cardinia Mayor George Blenkhorn spoke, saying how privileged he felt to be able to attend the service and thanked new bugler Peter Thomson and the Pakenham Concert Band, as well as emergency services crews for their support.
Pakenham RSL’s Norm Joseph said this year’s Anzac Day held special significance for him as a former Rat of Tobruk, as it was the 70th anniversary for them.
“This year’s focus is on the Rats of Tobruk,” he said.
“Which is really important for me.”
Mr Joseph then made his way to Melbourne to take part in the Anzac Day march.