Dawn service at Kensington RSL, followed by gunfire breakfast.
Then, for the 31st year in succession my brothers and I will carry my dad's unit banner (8th Div AASC).
Very sad that the 'red caps' have decided to 'acknowledge' the centenary of ANZAC by relegating the WW1 unit banners to the rear of the march, and to BAN all descendants from marching behind them.
In particular I am deeply saddened that this will mean that there is no-one to instruct the scouts, guides, etc carrying the banners ( who do a fantastic job) to lower the banners after the saluting dias as they pass the Eternal Flame and wheel in front of the Shrine.
As, from the inception of ANZAC Day, the entire point has been to honour and remember the fallen, it is extremely sad that these banners are no longer lowered, as they were when returned unit members were still alive and marching, and as they are still lowered by units from WW2 onwards.
For the past 10 years or so I have instructed those carrying my grandfather's WW1 Unit (21st Battalion) when and how to lower the banner. Unfortunately I won't be allowed to do that this year.