Rochester reflects on service and sacrifice

The parade stepped off from Mackay St and headed towards the Rochester RSL war memorial, where community members awaited for the commemorative service.

Rochester RSL secretary Jonah Gruner led attendees through the service, paying tribute to Australia and New Zealand’s servicemen and women.

“Today we pause, not just out of tradition but out of deep respect,” Mr Gruner said.

“We take this time to reflect on the courage, sacrifice and service of those who served. We remember those who never came home and those who did, but carried the scars, and the families who stood beside them.”

A special tribute was paid to former Rochester RSL president John Glover, who died in January.

Mr Gruner described him as an avid supporter of the RSL and the driving force behind Rochester’s cemetery dawn service and the identification of veterans’ graves throughout Rochester.

Rochester RSL president Cameron Lovering delivered the call to commemorate, urging the community to honour the legacy of service not only on Anzac Day but throughout the year.

“It’s only one day a year that we call to mind their worst fear,” Mr Lovering said.

“While I have your ear, I want to make it clear that the service and sacrifice of these veterans that we hold so dear is worth so much more than just one day a year.”

Mr Lovering said remembrance was not about glorifying war, but recognising the cost of peace and the sacrifices made to secure it.

He also called on the community to preserve the stories and memories of those who served, warning of the cost of forgetting the lessons of war.

Young people were involved throughout the event, with representatives from local schools and the 1st Rochester Scout Group taking part in readings and prayers.

Representatives from emergency services, schools, community groups and local businesses also laid wreaths on the day in respect of the fallen.

At the close of the service, three Rochester community members were recognised, with the Rochester RSL presenting its annual Spirit of Anzac Award and two Scouting scholarships.

Blake Kyne, 16, was named the 2026 Spirit of Anzac Award recipient, recognised for his courage and commitment as a CFA volunteer.

Blake was honoured for his actions at his first major fire last November, where he helped protect homes, livestock and property, as well as for his ongoing service to the community.

The Rochester RSL also presented two Scout scholarships to support local young people joining the Scouting movement in 2026.

Emily Roberts received the Walkley Scout Scholarship, named in honour of former RSL president and Vietnam veteran Greg Walkley and his late father.

Scout Alexander Quinn was awarded the Glover Reserve Force Decoration Scout Scholarship, which commemorates Mr Glover.

RSL members said the awards reflected the enduring Anzac values of service, leadership and commitment to community, while investing in Rochester’s next generation.

Following the service, attendees were invited to tour the newly-renovated Rochester RSL Hall.