Remembrance Day 2025: More than 100 gather at newly refurbished war memorial for moving Katanning service

More than 100 people turned out for the Shire of Katanning’s Remembrance Day service, which was held on November 11 in front of the town’s newly refurbished war memorial.

The town fell silent and even a grain train, which chugged through as the proceedings were under way, failed to disturb the atmosphere of the moving ceremony.

“The train seemed to go on forever,” shire president Kristy D’Aprile said.

“But it was a lovely day. It’s always a peaceful ceremony and it is something the community really values, which is reflected by the number of people who come.”

Cr D’Aprile gave the address and told the audience it was a time of reflection and a time to honour those who served in all wars.

It was the first service at the refurbished memorial, which was re-dedicated at a Prosser Park ceremony on October 25.

Having been first unveiled in 1920, the memorial site was restored to its original condition during an 18-month revamp.

Also restored was the Turkish war trophy cannon, which was captured in 1917, and which underwent a full stripping and rust removal.

A protective structure around the cannon features storyboards depicting its capture and Katanning’s two Victoria Cross recipients, Lt Alfred Edward Gaby and Pte Percival Eric Gratwick.

Ms D’Aprile said pupils from the town’s high school and three primary schools all came to the service.

Wreaths were laid by many local organisations, including the schools, St John WA, the scouts and the shire.