The Orbost RSL has announced its guest speaker and guest parade marshal for this year’s ANZAC Day commemoration ceremony this Saturday at The Cenotaph.
The guest speaker will be Group Captain Keith Joiner of the RAAF. He is originally from Orbost and his grandfather was a Secretary of the Orbost RSL sub branch.
The guest parade marshal will be Jonathan Marshall, Vice President of the Delegate RSL.
He is also originally from Orbost, and served in the Australian Army for 14 years.
“Last year, we had record-breaking attendances at our commemorations,” said sub branch president Carl Turney.
“It was heart-warming to see Orbost’s respect for those who have sacrificed for our security.”
The Orbost RSL requests audiences to arrive in time for the ceremonies, to minimise any disruption.
People should arrive at the Dawn Service well before it commences, promptly at 6am.
To view the Mounted Light Horse arrive, people should be present even earlier.
Those marching at the 11am Service should arrive before 10.30am.
To view the parade, the public should be present before 10.45am.
“Families and civic groups will take part in the laying of memorial wreaths, as in previous years,” Mr Turney said.
The Dawn Service will be followed by a Gunfire Breakfast at the Bottom Pub in Orbost.
The game of “two-up” can only be played on ANZAC Day, and will be held at the Bottom Pub and at the Marlo Hotel.
Jonathan Marshall will be accompanied by his wife Caroline, who is currently serving in the RAAF, and their retired service dog “Vixen”.
The Cenotaph was recently refurbished by East Gippsland Shire Council, making it both safer and more attractive.
After years of standing still, the clocks in The Cenotaph have also been repaired and are working. Mr Turney said “It was a great job by the shire.”
The Orbost RSL recently put a professionally-produced poster on display at Orbost’s roundabout, to remind the public of these two solemn ceremonies on Saturday.
CANN RIVER
The Cann River RSL sub branch is inviting the community to attend its ANZAC commemorations on Saturday, April 25 at the Cann River Cenotaph.
The Dawn Service will commence at 5.45am, while the Day Service will commence at 10.30am. All are welcome.
