50th Anzac Day Celebrations- War Heroes Honored

Over 200 people congregated in the small town of Westonia on Anzac Day 25th April 2008. There to celebrate the first service held in the old miners' hall for more than fifty years.

We stayed in the Westonia Caravan Park in this small town in Western Australia and woke early. Holidaymakers and some who had come to the town specifically to celebrate this momentous occasion (like us) were delighted to be included in the spontaneous organisation of a dawn service march around the park to the flagpole.

All took part in the spirit of this momentous occasion. As no one had any proper gear, a hand basin and a stick served as the drum, another member acted as group leader controlling the march. He carried a pair of undies with the Australian flag printed on them.

We all followed one another to the accompaniment of left, left, left right left around the park to the flagpole.

Once there we all stood to attention (except for those trying to take memorable photos), a small toy flag was raised to the top of the flagpole, followed by a minute's silence. With this serious event over, we fell into line, marched back to the park, and had a very enjoyable community breakfast with all the park marchers.

At ten o'clock, we joined in the real activities of Anzac Day Celebrations. They brought a Centurion tank into town especially for the event. It had been in active service during the Vietnam conflict. My husband marched proudly wearing his father's war medals, with about thirty other people.

Speeches followed and presentations made to a few of the older diggers. After the ceremony, everyone enjoyed a light lunch. We saw photos of what our men suffered through projected onto the wall behind the festivities.

People had come from all over the state to commemorate the first Anzac day ceremony that Westonia celebrated in fifty years since the men had joined the forces.

We heard many tales about the highs and lows of life since joining. These were continued at the local pub late into the evening. Many memories shared of those, no longer with them but still remembered for their efforts and terrible sacrifices.

After the service people stood around talking and catching up with relatives and friends that they hadn't seen for years.

You cannot beat the country folk for their camaraderie and friendliness to everyone.

At dusk we all returned to the caravan park, to perform the task of lowering the flag. This was a quiet occasion as we reflected on those who left us not to return.

We eventually returned to the local hotel for more refreshments and more chatting about the old days.