Marching on

By Casey Neill
WAR veterans and locals will march through Upwey streets on Anzac Day, after red tape last year threatened the 90-year-old tradition.
Last May, the Mail reported the sub-branch held its annual march illegally after it refused to meet new State Government requirements.
It was asked to submit a traffic management plan just weeks before the parade, which included seeking VicRoads, Upwey trader, bus company and shire permission, which would have cost up to $1000.
Sub-branch secretary Terry Bull told the Mail in August the group was “not interested” in marching illegally again.
“But we are very much anti-having to make payment for the freedom to march,” he said.
“We might even decide not to march.”
However, Yarra Ranges Council intervened ahead of this year’s march and helped Upwey-Belgrave and other sub-branches, including Dandenong Ranges, Monbulk and Mount Evelyn, to develop traffic management plans free of charge.
Shire spokesman James Martin said some services required road closures and traffic safety measures.
“The council contacted the branches to let them know about legislative changes introduced by the government in relation to road safety and to offer the branches support in meeting these requirements,” he said.
Upwey-Belgrave RSL sub-branch president David Eaton said the Upwey parade was a critical event for the town.
“We’ve seen it growing and growing over the past few years,” he said.
“We’re seeing more young people involved, which is great.”
The Vietnam veteran said it was important to bring people together on Anzac Day.
“More people are becoming aware of the importance of the day and remembering the sacrifice of so many people over so many years,” he said.
“Veterans need the support.”
Streeton Ward councillor Noel Cliff last year supported the Upwey-Belgrave sub-branch’s decision to ignore the State Government edict.
He said keeping the march going was “so important”.
“It’s not just about these blokes, it’s the kids they’ll get through to,” he said.
“Not everyone can make it into the city.”
Cr Cliff said he had watched the march and the sub-branch’s dawn service grow.
“It’s standing room only now,” he said.
“You’ve got to hang by a tree if you get there late.”
He urged people to attend and show their support.
“There’s entertainment and it’s family friendly,” he said.
The Upwey-Belgrave RSL sub-branch march starts in Main Street, Upwey, at 9.45am on 25 April.
Lieutenant Andrew Laing will return from serving the Australian Army in Afghanistan in mid-April and has asked to join the march with his cousin ,Warwick Laing, who has been on naval duties in Perth.
A 6am dawn service and breakfast at the Mast Gully Road RSL will precede the march. A service at the Belgrave cenotaph follows at noon.