ANZAC Day has significant meaning in Australia; April 25 has long been a day for remembrance, a sneaky game of two up and showing respect to all our current and past service personnel.
Speaking to the New England Times, Bingara RSL Sub Branch President Peter Kennedy said ANZAC Day is a personal journey for many, but he thinks it’s important because it marks the first major battle fought by Australian and New Zealand Troops. It’s also a time to remember and commemorate all those who gave their lives serving Australia and for those who returned.
“People attend ANZAC Day to pay their respects and commemorate the ANZAC’s who lost their lives in WWI and to remember all Australian Service personnel who were killed in other conflicts,” Peter said.
“ANZAC Day is also a day to pay our respects to the members of our Defence Force currently serving and for those who have served.”
Inverell RSL Sub Branch President Mal Dickson called ANZAC Day an occasion of commemoration but also reflection on those who gave everything for their country.
“It’s commemorative but also a day for solemn reflection, remembering the fallen and the sacrifices made, so hopefully, we don’t keep repeating past mistakes,” he said.
Inverell’s ceremonies this year will have three generations of army personnel in attendance. Local Jacko Ross, a Vietnam veteran, his son retired Lieutenant Colonel Jason Ross, and his grandson, Lieutenant Harry Ross, who is the guest of honour.
ANZAC Day Across New England
Check your local RSL NSW sub branches or council for information on all the ANZAC Day commemorative services near you, but here are some happening around New England on Thursday, April 25.
| Armidale | 4:45am to 2pm Memorial Fountain, Central Park. Full program here. |
| Guyra | 5:45am to 12:30pm Memorial Hall, 163 Bradley Street. Full program here. |
| Bingara | 5:30am to 11:30am Bingara RSL Club. Full program here. |
| Inverell | 5:45 am to 10:45 am Inverell Memorial Swimming Pool and Oliver Street. Full program here. |
| Tamworth | 5:30 am to 10:45 am Anzac Gates, Brisbane St, East Tamworth. Marius Street Tamworth War Memorial Town Hall. Full program here. |
| Moree Plains | 5:50am to 9:30am Moree Services Club, Max Wales Memorial Park. Full program, including ceremonies in Mungindi, Pallamallawa, Boomi, Garah and Yallaroi here. |
| Glen Innes | 8:30 am New England Highway, School Of Arts, Deepwater. Full program here. |
| Gunnedah | 5:15am to 10:45am Full program here. |
| Narrabri Shire | 5am to 5pm Full program, including ceremonies in Wee Waa, Boggabri, Baan Baa, Bellata, Pilliga, Gwabegar, Maules Creek, here. |
| Tenterfield | 5:30am to 2:30pm Memorial Hall & Tenterfield Cemetery. Full program here. |
Something going on in your part of the region you think people should know about? Send us a news tip or email newsdesk@netimes.com.au.