Vets pay their own tribute to local pair

By Paul Dunlop
BUGLER Graham Treloar and Cardinia Shire mayor Bill Ronald were decorated on Anzac Day for their service to Pakenham’s war veterans.
Mr Treloar and Cr Ronald received certificates recognising them as honorary members of the Pakenham subbranch of the Returned Services League.
The honorary memberships, announced earlier this year, recognised the pair’s longstanding contributions to the RSL.
Mr Treloar, bugler extraordinaire and Cardinia Shire citizen of the year in 2005, has played the Last Post and Reveille at almost every Anzac Day dawn service in Pakenham for the past 45 years.
Cr Ronald has conducted the annual election of RSL officers for the past six years.
Pakenham RSL president Norm Joseph presented the certificates to Mr Treloar and Cr Ronald during the gunfire breakfast at the Pakenham hall.
“This is a symbol of the respect and admiration we veterans hold for these two gentlemen and for the support always given over so many years,” Mr Joseph said.
Mr Treloar and Cr Ronald were both visibly moved by the honour.
Mr Treloar, fondly known as ‘Uncle’, said he was a “little bit overcome”.
“Whatever contribution I have made is very small compared to what you blokes did,” he said.
“I enjoy playing the Last Post and, God willing, I’ll be here again next year.”
Cr Ronald said the RSL did a tremendous job and congratulated members on another successful dawn service.