CRESWICK-SMEATON RSL Sub-Branch
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Creswick Dawn Services - 2006 to 2010


2006

No information available

2007

As moonlight gave way to a calm, mystical dawn, a record crowd, flanked by 18 Lighthorse Troopers, stood in reverence at the floodlit Field of Crosses.

Emotional tribute to the fallen of all wars since Gallipoli 92 years ago was paid by RSL President, Jack Sewell who reminded the gathering to maintain the spirit and remembrance of the ANZAC's as the ranks of veterans diminished. Deep emotions were stirred as the poignant notes of the Last Post and Reveille rang out and the response by Mikaela Sewell to her grandfathers's recitation of "In Flanders Fields" was heard out of the darkness.

Many placed posies at the Crosses made as a labour of love and remembrance to the veterans of Creswick and District by 94 year old Arthur Bellingham.

The Gunfire Breakfast generously hosted by Ed and Lyn Koene at the Farmers Arms Hotel warmed the old diggers and young troops in readiness for later ceremonies.

2008 - Over two hundred warmly clad Creswickians, RSL and Light Horse Troop members, friends and visitors turned out to the 6am Dawn service on a cold autumn morning. W.O. Gary Chandler called the Parade to attention and RSL Treasurer, Michael Clark who gave the address drew our attention to the "Field of Crosses", standing in the spotlight. Each cross is named for every local who has died, after serving in his country's Defense Forces and had been made by ex-Army, New Guinea Veteran Arthur Bellingham who sadly died last year, and includes the one he had made for himself. It is hoped that this tradition will be carried on in his memory. Gary c handler and Indigo Collins beautifully recited the poem In Flanders Fields. Members of the public were invited to place flowers on the cross bearing the names of their loved ones, after the ceremony.

A splendid traditional "Gunfire" breakfast, complete with the Tot in the Coffee and Tea, was served at the Farmers Arms Hotel. A surprise awaited us! Five European Journeymen who had been staying withe Koene family were serving the food, in their traditional Black outfits.

2009

No information available

2010

No information available
Ode of Remembrance

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them