The rain was no match for locals who turned out in their hundreds to commemorate Anzac Day for Emerald’s dawn service this morning.
In a welcoming trend, there were plenty of youngsters and families proudly paying their respects as all converged at Anzac Place.
Many decorated veterans were in attendance displaying their medals, while members of 31 ACU Army Cadets were also involved with the service.
And as usual, the Puffing Billy was quietly hissing nearby decked out in an Anzac theme.
As the service proceeded, Australia’s peacekeeping efforts were highlighted and the significant involvement the nation has had in various countries as they endured conflict.
Emerald Primary School students spoke of the numerous conflicts Australians were deployed to assist with peacekeeping efforts such as East Timor during the late 1990s and early 2000s.