This year was the first time that Mr Foster took part in the march, wearing the story of his veteran father, Ronald, on his chest as he proudly strode down the main street and into the Town Hall for the service.

Ronald Foster served in the AIF’s 450 Squadron as a bombardier in Egypt during WWII, although like countless others, he was never the same man after returning home from his honourable duty.

“My father was damaged in a number of ways from the war,” Mr Foster said.

“Unfortunately he watched his best mate, Darkie Ward, get his head blown off when the two were being strafed in a trench. It is the only wounding he ever talked about.

“Other than that he (Ronald) would never march, never talk about it – he was sickened by it.” 

In 1957 Ronald did take David to the Martin Place March in Sydney.

“When I was a little boy he took me to Martin Place and put me on his shoulders. He took me to see it and experience it – but that was it.” 

Finally at the age of 71 Ronald  faced his demons and re-enganged with his fellow veterans, particularly his remaining squad members from their time in Egypt.

“He was very dis-engaged, but then he finally relented and met up with his mates again and started to attend marches and services again,” Mr Foster said.

“I am about his age now, and that is why I decided to get involved in the march and services myself.

“I do regret not joining the march earlier, when I was on council, although I am very proud to be doing it this year and sharing my father’s story.” 

Another prominent former councillor was also marching for his ancestors.

Former mayor Warren Woodley could be seen proudly striding down Peel St on his own in front of the navy parade. He believes that Anzac Day and the amazing, and sometimes harrowing, stories that everyone, like Mr Foster, share go a long way towards the making of Australia’s heritage.

“I am marching for my grandfather on my mother’s side, and I have marched every year since I was a child,” Mr Woodley said.

“He was a blacksmith from Wallabadah, who was a sapper in France during WWI – he played a major role in the explosion of Hill 60.

“This year has been one of the biggest and best attendances  that I have seen – I love the atmosphere and the tradition. It’s great to see.”