Anzac Day preparations are well and truly underway across Central Otago.

Planning the day’s events starts a year in advance, which for many branches involves work around advertising, communication, road closures and service groups.

Speakers are also approached, along with pipe bands and RSA singers, among many others.

Alexandra-Clyde Returned and Services Association (RSA) president Kevin Harding has been in his role for just two weeks, which has allowed him to lead the way towards any last-minute plans.

He said his role as president came as a surprise, but with the support of a great committee, Anzac Day commemorations are coming along well.

While two weeks does not sound long, his involvement with RSA and Anzac parades dates back to the mid 1970s.

“I was part of the very first Cenotaph Guard as a territorial soldier. The parade back then consisted of mainly World War 1 and World War 2 veterans. Later it was Korea and Vietnam veterans.”

Kevin said the parades also recognise those who completed compulsory military training, with many of them now aged 70 to 90.

The ageing population means the 50 squadron air cadets, scouts and guides and schools are among those who help make up the numbers and will see the parades into the future.

Anzac Day will take place on Thursday, April 25.

To hear more from Kevin, listen to this week’s The Outlet podcast.

For a full list of Anzac Day services visit The Central App’s What's On button.