It’s 109 years since New Zealand troops disembarked on Suvla Bay on the Gallipoli Peninsula, half a world away, on the morning of April 25, 1915.

The subsequent disastrous actions left 8,000 New Zealanders killed or wounded. 

The following year the first ANZAC service was held in memory of those who made the supreme sacrifice in the ill-conceived campaign.

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.

There are 12 commemoration services throughout Central Otago today (April 25) during the morning.

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.

To hear more from the Alexandra-Clyde Returned and Services Association (RSA) president Kevin Harding, listen to last week’s The Outlet podcast.

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

The Central App will provide updates tomorrow. If you have any to share please send to [email protected]