General News
1 May, 2025
Natimuk gathers to pay tribute
The Natimuk community gathered at the Memorial Rotunda on Friday, April 25, to honour fallen and returned service personnel at the annual ANZAC Day ceremony.
The service began at 11 a.m. with Natimuk RSL President and Vietnam veteran Robert Ellis welcoming the attendees.
President Ellis recited the Ode of Remembrance, followed by a minute of silence and the heartfelt words ‘Lest We Forget.’
Natimuk Brass Band members played the Last Post as community representatives laid wreaths in remembrance of those who had passed away.
Dennis Jones laid a wreath on behalf of fallen service personnel.
Robert Grant represented the Natimuk RSL, while Councillor Brian Klowss laid one on behalf of Horsham Rural City Council. Members of the Natimuk Football and Netball Club and students from Natimuk Primary School also paid their respects through wreath-laying.
While talking to the Mail-Times about the ceremony, Mr Ellis reflected on the day’s significance and Natimuk’s strong military history.
“Like every other year, people come and pay tribute to our servicemen, and I’m happy with today’s numbers,” he said.
“When I came home from Vietnam, the first people who welcomed me into the RSL were Second World War veterans.
“A lot of places didn’t do that, but not here—I always felt welcome.
“There was a real core of them in this area.
“We get the football and netball clubs, we get the schools, we get young people to come out.”
Mr Ellis estimated that hundreds from the Natimuk district had served.
“So many went from here,” he said.
“In those days, the population was a lot bigger than it is now.
He encouraged young people to stay involved.
“Keep supporting us and the memory of all those who served.”
Mr Ellis thanked the band, Hindmarsh Rural City Council, RSL members, and the public for supporting the event.
The band concluded the service with the national anthems of New Zealand and Australia.
