With COVID-19 restrictions now behind us, it was great to see such a fantastic attendance at all our ANZAC services this year, with a broad cross-section of ages.

Mayor Martin Connolly attended the service at Lake Ferry where there were readings by students from Pirinoa School and Kahutara School. The Martinborough service had a large turnout with many cubs and scouts in attendance. Wreaths were laid on behalf of individuals as well as organisations. Students of Kuranui College and Martinborough School read out the names of those who gave their lives in service of their country.

Deputy Mayor Melissa Sadler-Futter was present at the Featherston service, where poems were read by students from all three of the local schools. Her speech spoke of our gratitude for the service of those in the armed forces over the last century.

“We must never take for granted the tremendous sacrifices made by those who volunteered, served, fought and died for our freedom. It is important that we remember these brave individuals – our grandfathers, fathers, brothers and uncles are the “them” we must remember. They fought and died for us and we owe them a debit of gratitude that we can never fully repay.”

She also spoke of those who did come home, but whose lives were so impacted by the experience of war – “whether physical, psychological or a combination of both.”

At the Greytown commemoration Cr. Martin Bosley also spoke of the sacrifices made by our people, but also how our kiwi traits came through in such difficult times.

“The Gallipoli campaign showcased attitudes and attributes – bravery, tenacity, practicality, ingenuity and loyalty – that helped New Zealand define itself as a nation.”

As English poet Laurence Binyon wrote in his 1914 poem; For the Fallen:

“At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.”