The day dawned cool and clear and over 200 people attended a foggy Dawn Service at Gunning Cenotaph.
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The Anzac Day March was under the command of Commander Tony Ellis, where more than 400 turned out.
Officiating was Dave Findlay of the Gunning Chapter of the Yass RSL Sub-branch with Rev John Barnes, Graeme McKeown and David Donnan. Special guest speakers were Mr Trevor Lawton (his commemoration address read by his son Stephen) and Ms Terry-Ann O’Neill.
Dalton students Rory Walsh, Brynn Mathews and Ned Jones took part in the 'Step Up' as did Tim Mathews. Wreaths were laid including by Thomas Hinds and Jack Kohonen from the Gunning Early Learning Centre and Vince Salsone from Local Area Command of NSW Police.
Gunning remembers
The weeklong display at the Gunning Courthouse was officially opened by Upper Lachlan Shire Mayor John Shaw. Visibly moved by the ceremony at the Cenotaph and the prospect of what the display would reveal, John thanked all those involved and reflected on war, its impact and how the numbers have grown at ceremonies to honour the sacrifices at war and on the home front.
The exhibition was visited by many on Anzac Day. On Sunday Andrew Kelly, a member of the Light Horse Association from Yass, was a special guest sporting the full uniform.
Map of Western Front
Arthur Bush of 'Boughyard', Jerrawa visited the Western Front and on his return created a map of the various theatres of war where his brother Ham and cousin Elijah fought. The large document also shows the route of the Kangaroo and Snowy Mountain recruitment marches.
Ham Bush was killed in action on September 30, 1918. His and Elijah’s comrade in arms, Paddy Ryan VC died destitute in 1941. Elijah survived the war but died later in a flash flood while under the influence.
The 'Gunning Remembers' display continues today from 10am to 12 noon and tomorrow from 10am to 4pm.
Demon drink
The part demon drink can play in people’s lives comes from the Yass Courier of April 22, 1860 when there was an objection to James Connell's application for a publican’s licence for the Coach and Horses Inn in Gunning. “...founded on the score of the ill-repute of his two step-sons... and also ...that the applicant had been in by-gone days, a man of intemperate character, and habituated to display ungovernable violence while under the influence of liquor.”
However, James Connell got satisfactory testimonials that the applicant “...had renounced the indulgence of intoxicating drinks...” and Connell claimed to have become teetotal. The licence was granted.
Earthquake and avalanche
The earthquake and avalanches in Nepal were a cause for grave concern for the safety of Dr Meg Walmsley, locally born and raised in Gunning and in the path of destruction at Everest Base Camp ER where she is volunteering.
Thankfully her parents Anne and Greg Walmsley of 'Frankfield' Gunning have got news that Meg is safe. It is hoped to share Meg’s experience in a later edition.
Email scam
Do not open an email purporting to be from the Australian Federal Police concerning a traffic infringement. It is a scam.
Coming up
Sunday May 3: Collector Village Pumpkin Festival is on from 10am–4pm.
Sunday May 3: Anzac Musical Tribute is on at 2pm courtesy of Musica da Camera. Location is the Shire Hall.
Saturday May 16: Shire Wide Bag-a-Bargain Garage Sale. To register call 4832 1988.
Sunday May 17: Cycling Race Lunch in the Shire Hall. Volunteers are being sought so call 4845 1809.
