A new book, inspired by the Waratah March, has been launched in time for ANZAC Day. The Centenary of the recruiting March was celebrated by a re-enactment from Nowra to Sydney last year.

Dr Grace Masselos, a retired early childhood lecturer, has used the March as a way of teaching older primary school children about the impact of the faraway First World War on a people in small towns all over Australia.

The book follows the experience of Annabel-Louise, who lives in Kiama with her quarry working family, from the excitement of the March to the reality of the homecomings and those who don’t come home.

Annabel-Louise and the Kiama Waratah Marchers of World War I is charmingly illustrated by local artist John Cornwell.