The mood was sombre across the Latrobe Valley yesterday as thousands attended dawn and morning services to commemorate 100 years since the end of World War I.
A historic cannon at Walhalla, forged by the town’s long tunnel company to mark a visit by the Governor of Victoria, was fired in memory of those who had paid the ultimate sacrifice.
It followed three rifle shots in front of a 300-strong crowd as people from as far as Melbourne and south Gippsland made the journey to the idyllic town to witness the unique ceremony.
A strong representation of families with children at Trafalgar was a noticeable trend for the dawn service while at Moe calm conditions saw about 250 people turnout for the service.
At Morwell, RSL president Bruce Jeffrey read a heartfelt letter from his daughter Major Wendy Jeffrey who was recently deployed in the Middle East.
Traralgon’s dawn service was also well attended as hundreds of people gathered at the Kay Street cenotaph.
Waler horse breeder Jason Hunter spoke about man’s best mate during war time at Tyers.
Mr Hunter said Australia’s troop developed a deep relationship and attachment with the horses who were with them during some of the most horrendous times.
About 120 people gathered in the dark for the dawn service and gunfire breakfast at Yinnar to hear Vietnam veteran Robert Lowick give an address about Australians at war.
Churchill attendees cast their eyes skywards to see pilots from the Latrobe Valley Aero Club in three small aircraft fly over the morning service to honour Australia’s air force personnel.
For full coverage of yesterday’s Anzac Day services, see pages 2-10.
