Anzac Day 2006

The Bennett family

Today was one of those glorious Autumn days that Melbourne is famous for. Which was just as well for those that spent the early morning at the Dawn Service - a touching salute to those that have fallen in service to our country.

Merrilyn's brother Steve and his family was one of many that attended. Living in Yea meant a 3am wake-up. Although they had intentions to staying for the march down St Kilda Road the early start got the better of them. So following a kip we met them, together with Lynne and Rick, at Kingsley Gardens in Mont Albert for a BBQ.

James loves playing with his cousins on the play equipment. Chloe scrambled up the rope "spider web" and promptly claimed she was a "red back". Of course, James wanted to climb the web as well. Maybe when he's a "big boy".

We had a tasty BBQ - thanks Lynne for the marinated chicken. Merrilyn excelled with one of her creative salads. It had pear, blue cheese, olives - yum.

But I think the highlight was enjoying time together with the family. A chance to chat and enjoy a glass of great Aussie red wine (thanks Rick). I have to say that I found it particularly enjoyable to take time out from packing and generally trying to keep track of all the "to-do's" in my head. As Merrilyn said to me today - 10 more sleeps. I wonder how long it will be once we reach the UK before we can relax like this?

You can check out the other photos in the Anzac Day 2006 set.