Published on Tuesday, 26 April 2016 at 12:00:00 AM
As the Pilbara came to life with the morning’s first rays of sunlight, poignant tributes were made during a number of dawn services held across the Shire of Ashburton, proudly supported by Rio Tinto and Chevron.
Thousands gathered across the region to commemorate and honour the ANZACs who fought and gave their lives for our freedom.
Wreaths were laid by dignitaries, ex-service personnel, military and community members in memory of all Australians and New Zealanders who have served in all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.
Past and current members of the armed forces, as well as descendants of those no longer with us, proudly participated in the ANZAC Day marches, while the traditional Gunfire breakfasts and celebrations kept the spirit of ANZAC alive throughout the day.
Shire President Kerry White said the spirit of ANZAC is fundamental to our sense of national pride and this is clearly evident by the numbers who gathered to pay their respects at our memorial events.
“It is always moving to see the community come together to honour those who have made such huge personal sacrifice,” said Cr White.
Rio Tinto general manager Tom Price and Marandoo Operations Anna Wiley said the Shire’s ANZAC Day commemorations were a great way for the community to honour our war veterans.
“Rio Tinto is proud to support a community event that enables us to reflect and honour those who have passed, and those still in active service today,” Ms Wiley said.
“It is great to see so many of our youth take part in the services, their participation is vital to ensure the traditions and history of the ANZACs continue.”
Chevron Australia Community Engagement Advisor Erin Glancy said it was her first ANZAC Day dawn service in Onslow and she was moved to see such a strong turn-out.
“It was great to have a group from the Wheatstone Project site join the community service in Onslow, whilst at Ashburton North a dawn service and Gunfire breakfast were held to commemorate the occasion,” Mrs Glancy said.
Traditional and lively games of two-up, along with an interesting assortment of military memorabilia, helped honour the selfless dedication of all our military personnel while also raising valuable funds for Legacy.
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