RUPANYUP and Murtoa communities both marked Anzac day with sober services dedicate to the men and women who left the small towns to fight in conflicts across the globe.
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The services reflected the way both small towns, so far away from the front line, were shaped by the absence, loss and return of servicemen and women in World War One.
Children played a role in both services, ensuring the Anzac legend and sacrifice will not be forgotten.
In Rupanyup, Yarriambiack mayor Graeme Massey launched the They Came From Rupanyup book.
“I was absolutely amazed with the community, not just Rupanyup but along the rail-line,” he said.
“They enlisted in droves and we ended up with more than 300 names – for a region so small that’s impressive.”
Guest speaker Captain Campbell Theander said he was honoured to be in Rupanyup, an area where so many soldiers had called home.
“Regional areas are our heartland,” he said.
“People came from here and everywhere and committed acts of bravery that created a legacy not surpassed in 100 years.”
Cassie Dunlop of Murtoa College received the 2017 Ken Daggett award for her community leadership and values.
Kiana Grace received the Rupanyup RSL’s Primary School award.