This morning at 6.30, I met Emily and Keiran at the St Andrews Scout Den in Main St Otautau to join our local ANZAC parade.  We marched with the Keas, Cubs, Scouts, Guides & Venturers to our war memorial.  It was pleasing to see a very large crowd had also donned jackets and ventured out at dawn to show that we remembered those who fought in the wars and did not return.   An amazing number of ex- Otautau School students stood amongst the crowd, sharing the moment with parents and families.

Keiran and Emily laid a wreath on behalf of the students at Otautau School.  In total 11 wreaths were placed in front of the cenotaph - an impressive sight.

At the morning tea that followed, in the Otautau Fire Brigade, Jake, Keiran and Emily each received a prize for winning the annual ANZAC quiz competition.  Locals, passed and present mingled and chatted while munching on delicious sandwiches and saveloys.  I caught up with an ex-pupil Jocelyn Paterson and was delighted to meet her two daughters.  Jocelyn now resides in Belfast in Christchurch and teaches children who have learning difficulties.  
Mrs Dee