By KATIE DE VERTEUIL
With the early wake up call thousands of people donned their winter woollies and headed down to Noosa Main Beach to commemorate 100 years of Anzac.
Organised by Tewantin Noosa RSL Sub-Branch, this year’s dawn service drew between 10,000 and 12,000 people to the sandy shore, a turn out of more than double that which was expected.
Beginning with the march of local veterans and those still serving, the ceremony was then lit up by the powerful voices of Noosa Chorale.
Attention was then drawn to the centre of the beach where a special tribute was performed by ‘the unknown soldier’ in honour of the centenary of the landing of Gallipoli.
A moving rendition of The Band Played Waltzing Matilda by Mic Travers followed bringing many to tears while wreaths were solemnly laid.
As the Ode and Last Post sounded a beautiful sunrise made for the perfect backdrop, concluding the commemoration.
A little later in the morning, a further 5000 headed to Tewantin Noos a RSL for the 9am Anzac service and parade.
Representatives from each of the local schools participated in the event along with four members of the Light Horse Brigade.
Proud and pleased with the support for both services, Tewantin Noosa RSL sub-branch President Steve Drake was grateful to the community for coming together for this significant occasion.
“On behalf of the sub-branch I would like to congratulate the public on their overwhelming turn out to both Anzac commemorations,” Mr Drake said.
“To have that much support was the most fulfilling thing we ex-service personnel could have asked for.”
