Anzac day 2012

[Private_collector]

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As always, this years ANZAC Day Dawn Service was a fitting tribute to all who have served (or are serving) in Australian and New Zealand defence forces. Weather was fine but cloudy, with only a very slight hint of the approaching winter chill. The crowd was considerably larger today than it has been in many years past.
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The Dawn Service is conducted from the vicinity of our ANZAC Flame. This photo was taken later in the day, from the direction of the park where the crowd was assembled. The ANZAC Flame sits at one end of our Memorial Lane.
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At the other end of Memorial Lane, these gates virtually disappear beneath the wreaths and other tributes that adorn it on ANZAC Day & Remembrence Day.

Every year there are minor problems with noise from a large group of Corellas (chirpy birds) that rest in the trees of the park. This year was no exception, but it is actually kind of fitting, as the Corella is quite iconic. This year a Kookaburra called out once, at a perfect moment in the procedings to remind all assembled that this is Australia!

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This wreath says it all.
The crowds today show they will NEVER be forgotten.

Parade photos to follow.