Mr Leitch said the decision to move the service inside was made early. 

But the change didn’t stop the local community turning out to pay their respects. 

More than 200 people crammed through the doors of the Longford Memorial Hall to commemorate those who fought, with more than triple that outside.

Mr Leitch said his speech was about adding more words of honour to those already spoken. 

“Every year on this day, we commemorate those who served and those who paid the ultimate price in all conflicts from the late 19^th century, through the 20^th century and into these early years of the 21^st century,” he said.

“Today we remember all those personnel who served, have suffered and will continue to suffer because of war.” 

Mr Leitch urged those attending to remember the Anzacs were ordinary, everyday people.

“Some were so young they hadn’t even finished school,” he said.

“They created a bond that is so strong that it still lives with us today and that’s the Anzac legacy.”

The rattle of medals touching filled the silent room as Ian Swain, representing the Northern Midlands RSL sub branch, David Blair from the Longford Football Club and Brian Harper left the hall to lay wreaths on the cenotaph.

“No one could have predicted the conditions endured, the devastation witnessed, and the result in suffering of those returning home from battle,” Mr Leitch said. 

“Anzac Day is an Australian institution and will forever remain so.” 

In previous years, the Longford Dawn Service has attracted more than 2000 people. 

The organisers hoped to hold the 11am service outside and had set up marquees in preparation.

After the service, the crowds headed to the Longford RSL for breakfast.