On August 15, 1945, rejoicing broke out spontaneously across the country when then prime minister Ben Chifley announced, "Peace: the war is over."
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This report from The Murrumbidgee Irrigator from the day illustrates how one small town in the NSW Riverina, Leeton, marked the surrender of Japan in 1945.
"In the streets of Leeton the populace was carried away by the first overwhelming surge of excitement at the advent of an epoch marking the occasion in their own individual lives as well as those of the Empire and the whole world, gave vent to unrestrained demonstrations of joy and exuberance.
"A day later, a wonderful spectacle, never before seen in the history of Leeton where such a mighty number of people gathered in town to cheer the procession of marchers, from seasoned veterans of WWI - down to tiny tots of Junior Red Cross and Scout Cubs.
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"Their deportment was admired as they swung along to the lilting strains of the music supplied by Leeton District Band, the roll of kettle drums, and the skirl of bagpipes.
"Returned soldiers headed by recently returned prisoners of war, airmen home on leave and a few visiting British sailors, all in uniform.
"Following on included the Yanco Garrison Force with fixed bayonets glistening the sunlight, Mr AE Bowmaker led the Volunteer Deployment Corp with rifles at the slope, YAHS Cadet Corps, AWU - Food Front, Air Training Corp, Volunteer Aid Detachment, National Emergency Service, Yanco Women Voluntary Services, school children, decorated vehicles, etc.
"A public holiday was declared, victory gala sports and football day, also dances and the victory agriculture show."