Laurel leaves a family tradition

By JO-MARIE BROWN

On a rural farm tucked away in the hills behind Gisborne, several generations of the Mossman family will gather today to honour an Anzac Day tradition.

An evergreen hedge of laurel leaves has stood behind the family's home at Waerenga-o-kuri for more than 80 years and was planted in memory of three Mossman brothers who died in World War I.

And every year without fail the family has plucked thousands of leaves from the hedge to adorn Anzac Day wreaths for the Gisborne region.

"Laurel leaves have traditionally been used for these sorts of wreaths for hundreds of years," Jenny Mossman said.

"We've never missed a single Anzac Day service and picking the laurel leaves beforehand has just become a real family affair."

Volunteers from the local RSA, schools and rugby clubs have dwindled in recent times so today Charlotte, 7, and Lucy, 5, will join their parents, Kim and Kate Mossman, and their grandmother, Mrs Mossman, for the day's picking.

"We fill a big sack each year which doesn't sound like much but it's quite a mission because you can't use any leaves that have holes or marks on them. The florist only wants the perfect ones," Mrs Mossman said.

From 776BC onwards, the Greeks crowned their Olympic champions with wreaths of laurel leaves while Romans used them to honour their generals.

Nowadays, laurel leaves are regarded as a symbol of victory and peace and RSA spokesman Bill Hopper said they have always been the first choice for Anzac Day wreaths.

"Everywhere you go on Sunday you'll see laurel leaves being used," Mr Hopper said.

"They're evergreen and remembrance is evergreen. That's what Anzac Day wreaths are all about.

"I think it's wonderful to hear that generation after generation of one family has kept up such a marvellous tradition."

Herald Feature: Anzac Day

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