PRIME Minister Tony Abbott reflected on the deeds of three local Great War heroes during the opening of the Spirit of Anzac centenary exhibition launch in Wodonga on Friday.
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Bonegilla farmer Archie Rapsey and Tallangatta's Harry Derrick were both killed and were mentioned by Mr Abbott along with Tom Snowden, who survived and returned to be a Wodonga Shire president.
"The soldiers of the Great War are legends," Mr Abbott said.
"But in their day they were parents, children, cousins, mates and friends, we should never forget that.
"Their lives were as joyous, as sad and as complex as ours."
Mr Abbott was given a walk-through of the exhibition before official proceedings began and was impressed with the travelling event which will visit 23 locations over the next 20 months.
"Having been through it I can say to people don't miss it," he said.
"The Great War was the crucible that forged our nation and that’s why the centenary of Anzac is an important commemoration for everyone.
"When the injured did return, some blinded, some missing limbs, some with wounds it seemed impossible that a human being could survive, they would change trains at Albury and the women of the Red Cross would go and help them where they could."
Descendents of Albert Borella VC _ Rowan and Mary Borella _ were present at the launch.
Member for Farrer Sussan Ley deputised for Senator Michael Ronaldson.
Mr Ronaldson is the minister assisting the Prime Minister for the Centenary of Anzac, but he couldn't attend due to commitments in China.
"I know the communities of Albury-Wodonga are terribly excited and honoured that this exhibition has been launched here," Ms Ley said.
Wodonga mayor Rod Wangman reflected on the city's military history which lives on today at Bandiana with defence one of its biggest employers.
Kapooka-based Jade O'Halloran performed the national anthem.
