Residents of Coonawarra and Penola gathered on Anzac Day to reflect and remember those who served at war.

The service at Penola’s War Memorial Park was an opportunity for the community to pay their respects and honour the service and sacrifices of their veterans.

Coonawarra Penola RSL president Peter DeGaris said Anzac Day was an important day for all Australians and the service received a great attendance.

“It is a special day to commemorate the sacrifices made by Australians over the years and the continuous sacrifices by our soldiers serving overseas,” he said.

Coonawarra Penola RSL treasurer Christine Dohnt said they could not have asked for better weather for the service.

“It was fantastic, we would have had a couple of hundred people there at least, perhaps a bit more,” Ms Dohnt said.

“It is important to commemorate the war service by all our Australian soldiers, women and men.

“It is a way to remember them.”

The combined schools choir of Mary MacKillop Memorial School and Penola Primary School sung Waltzing Matilda and the national anthem.

Wreaths were laid in memory of those who gave their lives and after the service people marched to the Coonawarra Penola RSL Hall to enjoy a gunfire breakfast.

The Light Horse, RSL members, veterans, cadets, scouts, schools, and the pony club all took part in the march.

“The support we receive is just amazing, it makes us pretty proud to have this support from those people and the locals,” Ms Dohnt said.

“It was great to have the Naracoorte Light Horse there and the ladies in the nurse’s uniform from the first world war.”

Breakfast was served for around 130 people, open to everyone again after COVID restricted numbers last year and surviving World War II veteran Roen Lynn was amongst those in attendance.

“It was excellent, there was a queue for bacon and eggs,” Mr DeGaris said.

“Thank you to everybody for coming and we look forward to doing it again next year.”