The 98-year-old paid tribute to past and present veterans, including those who fell during the bombing of Darwin, the sinking of the HMAS Perth and the Battle of the Coral Sea, with this year being the 80th anniversary of all three.
Merrylands RSL Sub-branch President Rob Grimley delivered the opening address and performed The Ode, afterwards leading the crowd to Merrylands RSL where over 700 enjoyed a free hot breakfast and Two-Up from 1-3pm.
Club spokesperson Jane Smith said it was a wonderful tribute to the ANZACs and she’s sure the crowd didn’t mind getting rained on during the service, considering what our veterans had to go through.
“The club was packed after the service and the piper helped to create the wonderful atmosphere,” she said.
Mr Grimley said it was amazing to see the crowds back after two years of Covid and they were blessed to have good weather for the Sunday service.
“Special thanks must also go to Cumberland Council, the police and the SES who all worked hard to ensure the day went so well,” he said.
Granville RSL Sub-branch hosted over 250 people for their service at Granville Memorial Park while a similar number attended Cumberland RSL Sub-branch’s service at the Auburn War Memorial.
Granville Diggers later hosted both groups for breakfast.
Granville RSL Sub-branch Secretary Alice O’Connor said the food was delicious.
“We then bagged up all the leftovers and dropped them off at Granville Police for distribution to the needy,” she said.
Hundreds brave rain for ANZAC services
A CROWD of more than 1,500 people braved the drizzle and marched to Charles Mance Reserve last Monday for the 5.30am ANZAC Day memorial service which included two giant screens, a piper and an address by World War 2 veteran Charlie Munnery.