But for the family and friends of service men and women, fallen and returned, it honours their glory, their sacred sacrifice.

In Goulburn, it also brings to the streets and ceremonies a glorious community spirit of thanks and acknowledgement.

Thousands turned out for the main services across Goulburn Mulwaree on Tuesday, April 25. Thousands.

From the first light of Dawn Service, to the War Graves, the Auburn Street march and the sunset ceremony at Rocky Hill.

Thousands.

And yet in our number we are but a fraction of the many thousands more who faced conflict in international theatres.

It is humbling to face the men and women who, by will or by grace, have given of themselves selflessly in service.

From the skirl of the bagpipes to the poignant piping of the lone bugler sounding the Last Post, our hearts rend.

Equally, it is as affecting to hear the hand claps of those lining the street and park in appreciation of it all.

Not all is sombre reflection, either: the pubs and clubs hosting the rare treat of a two-up game are bursting at the seams.

Old Diggers reunited have a joy for life as large and long-lived as the war stories they tell on just such an occasion.

This year may have been the 102nd anniversary of the landing at Gallipoli in 1915, but age has not wearied the day.

As the sweeping beam of Rocky Hill tucks us in at night, we will remember them.

The rain didn’t bother World War II veteran Colin Allender one bit as he proudly marched on Anzac Day.

At 95 years of age, he would have been forgiven for hitching a ride in a taxi to shelter from the downpour.

But Mr Allender was determined to keep marching, and will keep marching until he can’t march anymore.

“I’ll keep marching until I fall over, and if I do fall over, I have people who can pick me up,” he said with a laugh.

As for the day, “I love what it represents – friendship.

“I get a great kick out of how many kids come to the march.

“They are our hope.”

We salute you and cheer on your spirit.