Thousands pay respects in Geraldton at Anzac Day services and parade at Birdwood House

Thousands of Geraldton residents took to the streets around Birdwood House on Thursday to remember those who had fought for their country at moving Anzac Day services. About 5000 people braved the windy conditions for the dawn service which began at 6am, marking 109 years since the landing at Gallipoli. The massive turnout is believed to be the biggest Anzac Day gathering outside the metropolitan area. It followed the traditional vigil performed by local Scouts and Girl Guides the night before. Maj. Michael Lange, from the Pilbara Regiment based in Karratha, was one of the guests of note at the service, telling the masses Anzac Day was to “remember the sacrifice of those who were willing to place themselves in harm’s way, to defend and protect Australia.” Maj. Lange said Anzac Day held a special significance. “We all get together, and we put everything else aside so that we can think about the contributions . . . servicemen and women have given over the years,” he said. “We reflect on the contributions that supported peace and prosperity as a nation. “The world is dangerous, conflict is continuing to escalate over time . . . We still need to continue to be vigilant that we can secure our country from people that want to fit their way of life.” Lt Maria Martin-Pedersen works with Maj. Lange in the Pilbara Regiment, as the cultural adviser. Part of her role is to inspire Aboriginal people, particularly women, to join the defence force. She said a number of First Nations people had served, including her grandfather, who served in World War II. “We’re all proud to serve and to have served for our country,” she said. “First Nations soldiers have served for many generations, and I’m honoured to honour them and their memories.” Among the guests were former and current service people, police officers, and City of Greater Geraldton mayor Jerry Clune. He gave his thanks to the Geraldton public for coming to honour their veterans. “I think it’s the largest gathering outside the metropolitan area within the State for the dawn service,” Mr Clune said. “To have people standing in silence for over half an hour while the ceremony takes place is quite hard. “It is a solemn occasion, all from the elderly and veterans in their wheelchairs to the very young. They’re all here today so it’s very gratifying.” Don Rolston is an ex-serviceperson, having been conscripted in 1958. He has service and national service medals from his time in the defence force, when he served for a period before the Korean War and the Vietnam War. He said Anzac Day held a strong significance for him. “I realise just what ordinary people can do for their country,” he said. “Our Anzacs were recognised around the world amongst the greatest with respect to creating peace. “There’s so many young people who haven’t been near conflict who are here recognising people who served, to pay respects for those who paid the ultimate sacrifice.” Young people were among those to show their support at the dawn service. Dianne Grima attended the event with her daughter Censina Barndon, as well as her grandchildren Jack, Jye, and Jobe. Her grandfather served in the Second Light Horse Batallion at Gallipoli, and was hospitalised in Egypt. She said Anzac Day was always memorable. “It’s extremely emotional,” Ms Grima said. “I’ve been to Gallipoli myself, and the fact I can actually remember him. “I bring up my grandchildren to remember and realise what Anzac Day is all about.” Jack, 11, wore replicas of the medals his grandfather was awarded, while Jye, 9, helped lay a wreath. Later in the morning, the traditional parade kicked off starting at Marine Terrace near Dome and finishing at Birdwood House. Roads were closed off to facilitate the parade, with a number of different groups represented, including the defence force, the police, and scouts, all to the tune of the Geraldton City Band. The parade gathered at the Geraldton RSL for the main service, where about 1500 people were in attendance. Federal member for Durack Melissa Price and Geraldton MLA Lara Dalton were among the special guests. The finale was the ceremonial gunfire, which saw three blank rounds fired in the air.