The one day of the year.

The ranks thin - but the Anzac day march is now attracting the young to proudly wear father or grandfather's medals and join the parade.

Anzac day is a contradiction. It is a time to remember fallen comrades and the solemn part of the day starts with the dawn service. Later in the morning - the march is a time to proudly display regimental colours and receive the thanks of citizens who line the streets - and then in the afternoon it is a time for comradeship - over a few beers and a game of two-up.

Unfortunately not all commemorate the spirit of Anzac. In recent times pubs and clubs have imposed a closing time on traditional two-up games - and many now close their doors before darkness falls.

It is not veterans who are cuasing trouble but those feral Australians to whom Anzac day is simply a day off work - and a chance to get drunk and get involved in a fight.

The police report numerous brawls as groups of mainly young men empty out of licensed premises and fight in the streets.

Measures have been taken to reduce this problem. Many clubs and pubs serve only low alcohol beer - and half nips of spirits - on Anzac day, but it is an insult to veterans that such measures should be necessary on their " one day of the year ".

Just as the ranks thin in the march - so the syle and content of Anzac day seems to be changing. In the future we may see fewer venues willing to host games of two-up - and even greater restrictions on the serving of alcohol on that day.

We commemorate freedom bestowed by the sacrifice of our veterans. What a pity that the actions of the few are rolling back the right to celebrate that day in traditional style !