The Orbost community gathered in strong numbers on Saturday, April 25, to honour the service and sacrifice of Australia’s veterans during the 2026 ANZAC Day commemorations.
This year’s services were marked by a strong local connection, featuring a guest speaker and parade marshal who both grew up in the township.
The day’s commemorations began in the pre-dawn darkness at 6am, with residents arriving early to witness the arrival of the Mounted Light Horse.
The Dawn Service was then followed by a traditional Gunfire Breakfast at the Orbost Club Hotel.
Later in the morning, the main commemorative service and parade saw a strong turnout of families and civic groups who took part in the laying of memorial wreaths.
Leading the 11am parade was guest marshal Jonathan Marshall, vice president of the Delegate RSL and a 14-year veteran of the Australian Army.
Originally from Orbost, Mr Marshall was joined by his wife Caroline, a currently serving member of the RAAF, and their retired service dog, Vixen.
The guest speaker for the 11am service was Group Captain Keith Joiner of the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF).
As the official guest speaker, Group Captain Joiner shared a deeply personal connection to the Orbost RSL Sub-Branch, noting that his grandfather had previously served as its secretary.
Orbost RSL Sub-Branch president Carl Turney remarked on the community’s enduring dedication to the day.
Following the formal ceremonies, the community continued the day’s traditions with games of “two-up” – a pastime permitted only on ANZAC Day – held at both the Orbost Club Hotel and the Marlo Hotel.
