It's an annual ritual now - thousands of Australian flags dotted through Ballarat cemeteries, a mark of respect for Anzac Day.
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Now in its fourth year, schoolchildren from across the city wander through the rows, looking for every WW1 and WW2 returned serviceperson, and planting a flag for each grave.
They learn the stories about the veterans, which were uncovered by volunteer researchers.
Grade 5 and 6 teacher at Macarthur Street Primary School, Andrew Goodson, said he was glad his students were part of the program.
"They get to acknowledge the people who have gone before and served their nation," he said. "These guys have been excited to do this, and quite proud to do it as well."
Ballarat Cemeteries chief executive Annie De Jong encouraged family members of veterans to visit the cemetery and see the flags.
"Everyone who served deserves to be remembered and we would like to have as many included as possible in our flag placement ceremonies," she said.
"We placed 1300 flags throughout the Old and New Cemeteries in 2019. Further investigation into our records by our passionate and dedicated volunteers has led to the identification and location of many graves and memorials.
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"That means we can place flags on these graves as well. It has been an amazing effort with our volunteers compiling an extensive list of local people who served."
The search for more veterans in the sprawling cemeteries continues - anyone who finds someone that doesn't have a flag, but should, is urged to phone the cemetery on 5332 1469.
To attend Ballarat's Dawn Service and Anzac Day march, visit Eventbrite to book free tickets in advance.
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