Dawn service special at Patonga

This year's Anzac Day dawn service in Patonga was rather special.

It is a special place in a picturesque setting, and the service began with the bright morning star and a sliver of a reclining new moon hovering above.

In contrast to the pomp and circumstance of larger commemorations, Patonga has an informal but touching way of presenting its tributes.

During the ceremony, Mr Charlie Sproule brought the meaning close to home when he acknowledged one by one the names of locals listed on the war memorial who served their country.

Together with Mr John Twiner, these two gentlemen, both veterans of the second World War and recently celebrating their 90th birthdays, have organised the ceremony for many, many years.

Reluctantly, Mr Sproule is stepping down from this role.

Towards the end of the ceremony, after the kookaburras as if on cue, displayed a chorus of raucous laughter, Mr Twiner asked if any present would like to say something.

There was a poignant pause before a young girl stepped forward and gave thanks to those who had given their lives for us.

I would like to add to that pause with this letter of acknowledgement to these two gentlemen on behalf of the people of Patonga.

Email, 27 Apr 2017

Diana Perlowski, Patonga