The president of Laurieton RSL has praised the community for a fantastic turnout for this year’s Anzac Day commemorations. 

Budgie Parrot said despite the inclement weather, he was pleased to see so many faces packed into Laurieton United Services Club for the Main Service and praised people for cheering on the marchers. 

This year the commemorations were attended by special guests from Scotland. 

Members from the Royal British League Scotland (RBLS) Wick, Canisbay and Latheron branch joined with veterans from the Laurieton RSL to pay their respects to all those who have served in the wars. 

Mr Parrott said the Scottish veterans were very keen to march, despite the rain. 

“Danny (one of the visiting veterans) said in Scotland if we cancelled a march because of rain, we’d never have a march,” he said. 

Mr Parrott said Anzac Day was to commemorate the immortal day where the young people of Australia by their deeds and sacrifices demonstrated to the world that Australia was truly a nation. 

“The sons and daughters of Anzacs came forward without question and accepted gladly and discharged fully their responsibility during World War II, Korean War, Malayan War, Borneo War, Vietnam War, Iraq, Afghanistan and peace keeping operations for other conflicts. 

“The first world war was what really established the Anzac tradition.

“Peacekeeping operations and other conflicts will also be remembered today.”

Mr Parrott said people should take hope that future generations will never forget the example set by their forefathers. 

“We think of every man, woman and child who in those conflict years died so that lights of freedom and humanity might continue to shine,” he said. 

Royal British League Scotland (RBLS) national chairman Charlie Brown addressed those who attended the service and thanked the Laurieton RSL and the wider community for their hospitality and welcome. 

Mr Brown said the Anzac forces will continue to hold a special place in the hearts of all Scots.

He said the Anzac Day commemorations in Australia would be remembered significantly by all those who attended on April 25, 2018.  

Piper Rod Paton from the RBLS played when the wreaths were laid during the Main Service.