Quinns Rocks RSL hosts Anzac Day dawn service

FOR the first time, the sounds of a didgeridoo rather than a pipe band resonated at a dawn service in Quinns Rocks today.

The Quinns Rocks RSL sub-branch hosted its annual Anzac Day service at Quinns Rocks Sports Club.

Didgeridoo music floated across the grounds as the crowd of about 1000 gathered this morning until Wally Harmer opened the service.

Following the wreath-laying, Ian Wragg read out ‘In Flanders Fields’, and Salvation Army Merriwa Major Nikki Novell led the prayer.

“We pray for our country where so many have been affected by war,” she said.

“We remember families whose loved ones are still serving today.”

As the rain started to fall, Mr Harmer introduced RSL sub-branch president Peter Lofdahl who shortened his speech to a “thank you” for those involved in organising the service.

Mr Lofdahl thanked the children, up since 4am, performing in the combined schools and community choir, and the older singers representing “our great friends from across the sea in New Zealand”.

Involving students from several local schools, the choir sang ‘Walk with me’ and ‘Waltzing Matilda’ during which the RAAF did its fly past.

Kier Shoosmith then read out the youth response to ‘In Flanders Fields’ – ‘We shall keep the faith’.

Following the Australian national anthem, Butler College student Shasian Houia sang the solo Maori opening rendition of the New Zealand national anthem.

Dawn services were also held in Joondalup, Ocean Reef and Yanchep.