The sun shone on Mount Gambier yesterday for the community to pay its respects to past and present service men and women in the Anzac Day march and mid-morning service.

The march started at 10am led by ‘the modern conflict’ soldiers serving in Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan, Solomons and peacekeeping operations around the world.

The community lined Commercial Street to watch the march before the start of the mid-morning service at the Vansittart Soldiers Memorial.

Past submariner Captain John Salmon presented the Anzac address, followed by a prayer of remembrances, speeches, wreath laying, an Ode to Remembrance and a minute of silence.

RSL president Bob Sandow said he was pleased with the turnout at the dawn and mid-morning services which were attended by over 4000 people.

“The numbers at this year’s ceremonies look to be higher than last year’s,” he said.

“Overall, it was very successful and the weather has been excellent.

“We had a brilliant Kapyong Day on Sunday with seven students from Reidy Park Primary School giving up their weekend to place white crosses under the Lone Pine tree.

“It was great to see all the school kids at the ceremonies.

“I was particularly impressed with Tension Woods School Wellbeing Leader Sari Mutton who spoke at the dawn service.

“It was the first time a student has ever spoken but it is something we wish to continue.

“It is great to see the younger generation getting involved keeping the values and traditions of Anzac Day alive.”