Planning is now underway for the 2024 Mount Macedon Anzac Day Dawn Service, with the theme of ‘honouring every role, every sacrifice’ unveiled by the volunteer organising committee.
This focus for next year’s event will showcase the different ways that Australians have served, and continue to serve, in wartime, conflict or peacekeeping.
Mount Macedon Anzac Day Dawn Service (MMADDS) Committee president Leona Latcham said the roles that constitute “service” are so varied.
“Our minds often jump to the commonly represented images of those who served,” Ms Latcham said.
“Such as soldiers on the ground at the front line at the most familiar places of conflict throughout history, like Vietnam and Gallipoli.
“We want to acknowledge the many ways that Australians work to serve and protect our country, from the mechanics who maintained the army’s fleet of vehicles to the peacekeepers in Rwanda.
“The stories, sacrifices and contributions of all who served are powerful, important and deserving of our thanks and attention.”
Ms Latcham said the committee wants to hear from any locals who may want to help out in the lead up to the event and on the day.
“The event now attracts around 2000 attendees from the central Victorian region and also Melbourne and broader Victoria,” she said.
“Many people don’t realise that the [service] is put together by a small, dedicated group of volunteers with the generous financial support from our sponsors.
“On the day of the service, we have wonderful assistance from community groups including CFA, SES and Scouts, but we are always in need of additional hands to help coordinate.”
With Christmas almost here, Ms Latcham said financial contributions can also be made to the event as a gift in somebody’s name.
Details: mtmacedondawnservice@gmail.com
