War diary a link to the past

Accounts from the World War I diary of Cyril Richard Gartsone are something his son Tom Garstone holds dear to his heart.

Serving in the 43rd Battalion, the local farmer regularly recorded his time away at war and his service as a stretcher bearer in the trenches.

Tom said his brother also served in World War II and there were many other servicemen who hailed from the Katanning region, which showed of the area's commitment.

"I remember I was 12 years-old. We had an Anzac service in the town hall and there was a great big silver band, then all the families used to march behind them," he said.

"It was incredible to see.

"The tail of the group would reach all the way up to the roundabout - there were dozens of people."

While serving, Cyril was badly affected by poison gas and pulled out of the front line.

Tom said what the soldiers went though was traumatic, but the support for the Anzac commemorations was very important.

"They never spoke about the war," he said.

"I would always go with dad when he caught up with mates, and even then they didn't speak about it but it would have helped forming those great friendships."

The family has a strong history in Katanning.

Tom said the farm dated back to about 1894 and Cyril was a one of the original members of the agricultural society.

"I have never left Katanning. I have lived here all my life and I want to keep our history here," he said.

"It is always so important to maintain that heritage."