Photo feature compiled by Ash Long

State Governor Linda Dessau led the tributes to the 173 people who perished in the 2009 bushfires, at a State Commemoration held at the Royal Exhibition Buildings tonight (Mon.).

Master-of-Ceremonies Craig Willis introduced speakers included Marysville’s Dr Kathy Rowe and Strathewen’s Jane Hayward to an audience full of dignatries and senior emergency services personnel.

The event seemed top-heavy with officialdom, but there were some glimpses of the public with Dixons Creek Primary School students showing their Firestick commemorative work, and the Chocolate Lilies (mainly from Warrandyte and Strathewen) performing. Olivia Brereton sang Advance Australia Fair.

Former Deputy Premier Pat McNamara placed a wattle on a map of Victoria, Premier Daniel Andrews recited some poetry, and Opposition Leader Michael O’Brien read some Henry Lawson. CFA Chief Officer Steve Warrington spoke movingly.