Local marches a success despite small turnout

THEY may not match the Anzac Day March in Wollongong for size and spectacle, but the marches organised by Local RSL sub-branches prior to Anzac Day brim with history and remembrance.

Fewer people than expected came out for the Woonona-Bulli march on Sunday, but an RSL spokesman said that the dawn service was usually more popular than the march, adding that those who did attend did not go home disappointed.

"People absolutely thought it was fantastic," he said.

"We need the young people to take notice.

"The march is not done because we want to glorify war. It's because we never want to see it again."

War veterans from different conflicts took their rightful places in similar parades throughout the Illawarra in the days leading up to Anzac Day.

The Woonona-Bulli march involved courageous veterans from World War II as well as the wars in Korea and Vietnam.

Neil Mclean, President of the Woonona/Bulli RSL Sub-Branch, delivered his Anzac Day mesage saying the day should be used as a day to celebrate those who came home from these terrible places where they had to fight for freedom.

"It is also important that our young people are aware of the sacrifices that have been made by all Australians at home and at war," he said

"If you see a digger wearing medals don't just walk past. Stop and say thank you, for their pain (from) those battles is still ongoing."