Celebrations of freedom

By Paul Pickering
IN HIS address to the 700-strong Anzac Day crowd at the Upwey-Belgrave RSL, Chief Petty Officer Boson Brian Pattison of HMAS Cerberus commended those present for their commitment to “a tradition paid for in blood and celebrated in freedom”.
CPOB Pattison invited the mid-morning gathering to commemorate the sacrifice made by those Australians who have fought and died on the world’s battlefields, and to embrace the values of “mateship, passion, courage and good-humoured resilience” that characterise the Anzac spirit.
Upwey-Belgrave RSL sub-branch founder Bob Glassborow expressed his amazement at the growth experienced by the club and the service itself.
He was particularly buoyed by the contingent of youngsters present, including scout and guide groups from across the hills.
“It’s wonderful to think so many young people are taking an interest in our history,” Mr Glassborow said.
“It’s also amazing to think that one of the most inhumane events in our history reminds us that love is the most important thing.”
During the service, president Dennis Moffat invited children from local schools to lay wreaths in remembrance of fallen servicemen and women of the foothills.
Music for the service was provided by the Diamond Valley Municipal Band, while Tina Currie performed a stirring rendition of Amazing Grace before a flyover from the RAAF Roulettes.
Earlier, the traditional Anzac Day march paraded up Upwey Main Street to a raucous reception.
War veterans and their families were chauffeured to the RSL building in colourful, open-topped Mini-Mokes.
After the main service, an intimate commemoration was led by vice-president David Eaton and treasurer Mike Banger at the memorial park in Belgrave, with Nikki Williams playing The Last Post.
Mr Eaton said the community’s support for the day’s event was impressive and that the spirit of the day had been fantastic.