The ANZAC Eve Youth Vigil stems from the military tradition of ‘holding ground’ whereby a reconnaissance patrol would find and hold strategic position in preparation for the arrival of their army. This would often involve an all-night vigil, keeping awake on watch, alert that the area of battle is secured against threat.
Guides and Scouts, ranging from 5 to 17 years old (including two Olave members), each took turns at standing guard in silence at the four corners of the monument. With shifts lasting up to an hour and a half each, some Guides did 2 or 3 shifts throughout the night. All the Guides then attended the Dawn Service and the town's march to continue their service to ANZAC Day.
Our 2nd Charleville (Lone) Guides also commemorated ANZAC Day in their own ways - some attended the Youth Vigil, Dawn Service and March in Charleville, others marched in the local parades or held their own special ceremonies at home to remember the ANZACs.