An estimated 1000 men, women and children from both secondary and primary schools crowded into the auditorium for the solemn and moving commemoration.

Sub-branch secretary, Graeme Kernick said despite the rain clearing later in the morning the organisers could not put the health of elderly veterans at risk if the rain returned.

“There could be blue skies when the march started and 50 metres down the road the rain could come,” Mr Kernick said.

As we gather to honour their great and noble acts known, unknown and known only to God we join those in other nations, thousands of troops that are gather overseas as a new dawn breaks and we say together: “God bless Australia, thanks to the Anzacs, Padre, Daryll Moran said.

Padre of the Returned Service Associations outlined the history of Anzac Day, describing the invasion of Gallipoli at dawn 103 years ago as a “unique and legendary dawn”.

“This dawn would rise to shape our nation like few others,” he said.

“In a last message from their commanding officer, the ANZACs were told that what they were about to do would ‘go down in history to the glory of the soldiers of Australia and New Zealand’.

“But, what they achieved at Gallipoli went well beyond conventional military glory, although they gained that in great measure.

“In this challenging terrain against brave and determined Turkish soldiers, they showed steadfastness, courage and above all a wonderful support of each other in the emotional and physical stresses of war.”