“Next time you enjoy your morning Weetbix or slice of pavlova, or playing your favourite Australian sport, remember them, the boys that died, fighting, so we can be free.”
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These were the words spoken by Brauer College student Mackenzie Buckle at the Koroit Anzac Day Service on Wednesday afternoon.
McKenzie joined fellow classmates Emily Bartlett, Gus Threlfall and Claudia McCutcheon, as well as teacher Anne Knappett, Port Fairy RSL president Doug Nolte and daughter Barbara Nolte, on stage at the Koroit War Memorial.
Mr Nolte, who served in the Vietnam War fifty years prior, began the 12.30pm ceremony by paying tribute to fallen soldiers and their families.
“Our thoughts go out to those in battle in existing wars and families who have lost loved ones,” he said.
“And anyone still affected by the wars.”
Ms Nolte then read the Anzac Requiem to the crowd of almost 300 gathered on High Street.
“On this day above all days we recall those who served in war and who did not return to receive the grateful thanks of the nation,” she said. “We remember those who still sleep where they were left.
“We remember those who lie in unknown resting places.”
The national anthem and The Last Post accompanied the wreath laying ceremony, with many clubs and organisations taking part.
