Piopio ANZAC Commemoration 2025

Everyone who attended our local commemoration would have been proud of our small community in the way we marked ANZAC this year. More than ever, so many contributed in so many ways. It’s so satisfying to the organisers when you feel as though you have been beating your head against a brick wall of bureaucracy. ANZAC day in Piopio would be the one day in the year where we reflect on the many consequences of armed conflict.

This year the parade took place down Weka Street and set the tone with Parade Commander Thomas keeping the marchers in line to sole piper Bob Dawson. Everyone then moved into the hall while background music was played. MC Pam Voyce opened the service, reflecting on the origins and meaning of ANZAC, followed by Pastor Terry Bradley’s prayer with powerful messages to us all. After the National Anthems Piopio College’s head student Caitlyn Cody spoke about the contribution and sacrifices of animals in war. Our singers, accompanied by Anita MacKenzie sang a hymn as everyone moved outside for the Addresses, Flag and Wreath Laying ceremonies. After the formalities the Cossi club welcomed everyone to refreshments.

There are many people/organisations to thank as without you there would be no event (no order)
• Pam Voyce is very organised and put in a load of work to lead our service.
• Warren Wade provided us with a professional sound system, a solution for every situation.
• Very able musician Anita Mackenzie, with a little help, organised the music side of things, sounded fabulous.
• Thomas Young stepped up to be Parade Commander.
• Nathan Cocks, bugler (well cornet), and travels down from Kihi Kihi. So grateful to have live music. Nathan is very loyal to our service. His family once owned a panel beating business here.
• The Piopio branch of RSA who looked after the parade organisation and flag ceremonies
• Fire brigade kept us safe from the roads and looked amazing as always.
• Representatives from all the schools presented themselves with pride, willingly stepping up to roles with dignity. ANZAC falling within the school holidays is an extra complication for the leaders, and the effort is much appreciated.
• The Piopio Cossi club for hosting the after function.
• All the people who took roles on the day and made a special effort to enhance those roles.
• All the people who helped set-up and clean up, and it was super great to have some young fit students.
• Lions Club and Rural Women supporting in the background.
• Everyone who attended. Without you….. We think there were over 200 people this year.

And finally, who organized the very timely airforce fly-over? Magic!