COMMUNITIES across the Nambucca Valley paused on Tuesday to mark Remembrance Day 2025, joining millions of Australians in observing the solemn tradition of reflecting on the courage and sacrifice of those who have served in times of conflict.
Remembrance Day has its origins in the Armistice that ended the First World War.
At 11am on 11 November 1918, the guns fell silent on the Western Front after more than four years of brutal conflict.
The moment became known as Armistice Day and, after the Second World War, was renamed Remembrance Day in recognition of all who have served and died in subsequent conflicts.
Each year, Australians are asked to observe a minute’s silence at 11am to honour the fallen and acknowledge the continuing impact of war on veterans, families, and communities.
In the Nambucca Valley, services were held at cenotaphs and memorials from the coast to the hinterland.
At Nambucca Heads, community members, veterans, families, and school representatives gathered at the Nambucca Cenotaph for a moving ceremony led by the Nambucca RSL sub-Branch.
Sub-Branch President Denis Lane said the turnout reflected strong community commitment to remembrance.
“We had a very encouraging attendance of over 130 on a pleasant spring day,” Mr Lane told News Of The Area.
“The feature of the day was Barry Walker, a sub-Branch member, singing the National Anthem a cappella and I was especially pleased to welcome an increased number of younger veterans.”
Following the service, attendees were invited to the Poppy Room at the Nambucca Heads RSL Club, where they shared conversation, memories, and quiet reflection over refreshments.
Across the Valley, similar scenes played out as wreaths were laid, poems recited, and the Last Post echoed through the morning air.
At Macksville a Catafalque Party was provided by soldiers from the 41st Battalion, The Royal NSW Regiment.
President of the Macksville RSL sub-Branch, Garry McKay told NOTA, “I was pleased with the number of attendees who were respectful and dignified throughout the service and it was especially good to see our schools actively participating in the service.”
Among those in attendance at the Macksville Remembrance Day service was Nambucca Valley Mayor Gary Lee.
The continued support for Remembrance Day commemorations highlights the enduring importance of remembering not only the sacrifices made in the past, but the service of today’s veterans and the responsibilities carried forward by future generations.
By Mick BIRTLES
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