Veterans, former armed service members and current serving defence personnel were joined by children from schools across the Kurri Kurri district, scouts and guides  in the march down Lang Street to the War Memorial.

The march was led by army veteran of 28 years Ron Hourigan in a vintage car and was cheered on by well-wishers lining the street all the way.

Back in the ranks of the school children Lachlan Woollard Rowley carried the legacy on his great-grandfather Eric Rowley’s World War II service with the RAF and RAAF in the middle-east and other theatres.

Lachlan proudly wore Eric’s service medals. Many other children did likewise in a mark of respect which has become an important part of Anzac Day services and marches as ceremonies continue to evolve and maintain their significance to third, fourth and fifth generation of descendant of the original Anzacs.

The crowd continued to swell as the march finished at the war memorial and even a short downpour of rain didn’t deter any.

Umbrellas popped up and in the spirit of mateship which epitomises Anzac Day, friend and stranger huddled together under cover from the rain.