Up to 8000 people braved the cold weather on Monday morning to pay their respects to Australian soldiers who served the nation in war at the Anzac Day dawn service.
Werribee RSL president Daryl Ryan said he saw a diverse crowd at the service, from babies in their mothers’ arms to people in their 90s.
“It’s all about respect,” he said. “Even though it’s a public holiday, we still saw people getting up and coming at 6am to pay their respects.
PICTURE GALLERY: WERRIBEE DAWN SERVICE AND PRE-ANZAC DAY MARCH
“The crowds are getting bigger, the younger people are coming back.
“These soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice, and Anzac Day services are a way of showing our appreciation for what they did for us.”
Mr Ryan, a Vietnam War veteran, said it was also important to remember the consequences of war.
“We need to educate younger generations, they need to come and see what happens in conflicts. They need to see young people die in war. That’s the only way of making sure Australia does not get involved in any other conflicts.”
Sunday’s pre-Anzac Day march was also a success, led by World War II prisoner of war Eric Johnston.
“Even though it was a long weekend, numbers were still high,” Mr Ryan said.
