A large crowd commemorated Remembrance Day at the Daylesford War Memorial under a threatening sky. But the rain held off.
The 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month marks the end of World War I. Remembrance Day honours the men and women who have served in Australia’s military for their service. Over 100,000 Australians have died in military conflicts. Locally, 145 names are inscribed on the Daylesford War Memorial.
Those killed from Daylesford include Gunner William Tognini. William, officially reported killed in action on August 21st, was the youngest son of Mr and Mrs James Tognini, of the Bridge hotel, Footscray (late of Daylesford).
He left Australia early in 1916 with the Field Artillery but on arriving in England he volunteered for signalling. He had been back only a month with his original unit prior to meeting his death. Gunner Tognini was 25 years of ago and was educated at Daylesford where he was well known.
His brother, Charles, recently returned, gained the D.C.M. at Pozieres, and his brother-in-law, Capt. A. S. Isaac, was severely wounded in the same battle but is now on the Train ing Staff, Fovant, England.
Ian Tinnetti coordinated this year’s commemorations with other members of the Daylesford Returned and Services League, including Keith Pyres who read ‘In Flanders Field‘ John McCrae’s well known commemorative poem. Wreaths were laid for a number of local organisations including schools, health services, veterans associations, service clubs, Catherine King’s Office, the fire brigade and the police.
Crs Lesley Hewitt and Jen Bray attended the service on behalf of the Council.
Local children sang the national anthem and those attending were encouraged to attend the RSL across the road after the service.
