ANZAC Day commemorations across the Nambucca Valley were marked by strong attendance and heartfelt tributes.
In Macksville, commemorations began with a sunset service on 24 April recognising the battle of Kapyong from the Korean War.
Both services in Macksville drew significant crowds, with more than 500 people attending the dawn service and over 1000 attending the main service.
At both the address was delivered by Year 12 Macksville High School student Taylor Whalley, who focused on the role of women in times of war, both in active service and in support roles.
She spoke of her great nan, Rose Ellen Miller, who enlisted on 7 March 1944 and served during World War Two.
The service was attended by Federal Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan, State Member for Oxley Michael Kemp, and Nambucca Valley Mayor Gary Lee, alongside members, guests and the broader community.
A highlight of the main service was a brief flypast by an RAAF F35A jet, which drew the attention of the large crowd gathered.
Bagpiper Shaun Manning performed at all Macksville services, contributing to the solemn atmosphere of the day.
Students from schools across Macksville and Kempsey participated, delivering prayers and readings.
Melissa Robertson from Macksville High School, along with students, assisted sub-Branch members in placing flags on veterans’ graves at the Macksville Cemetery.
The Macksville RSL sub-Branch acknowledged the support of local organisations, including the Nambucca Valley Band, Jocelyn Leplaa for leading the singing, Bernard Laverty Funerals for the loan of chairs, and Jules for the creation of wreaths.
The Scotts Head Surf Life Saving Club was also thanked for its participation in the dawn service.
In Nambucca Heads, Anzac Day was commemorated with a dawn service at 5:30am and a main service at 9am, following a march down Bowra Street to the Cenotaph at Anzac Park.
“I was delighted with the numbers who turned out considering the possibility of inclement weather,” said Nambucca Heads RSL sub-Branch President Denis Lane
“I would go as far as to say that both services enjoyed the largest crowds I have seen.”
A moving address was delivered by Janelle McKay of Legacy Mid North Coast.
The weather took a dramatic turn as the heavens opened during the laying of wreaths, leaving those without rain protection completely soaked.
Mr Lane thanked those who attended to honour the ANZACs and all men and women who have served, and continue to serve, their nation in uniform.
At Scotts Head, students from Scotts Head Public School played a central role in the dawn service.
Their participation was widely praised as a highlight of the morning.
Retired Army Officer Colonel Mike Collie delivered the address, adding depth and reflection to the service.
In Bowraville, approximately 250 people attended the dawn service, while more than 500 attended the main service.
The weather cleared in time for both services, allowing proceedings to continue without disruption.
Senior students from Bowraville Central School (BCS) led the main service with the support of service members.
Students from both BCS and St Mary’s School delivered readings honouring the ANZACs.
Tyler Bellamy travelled from Armidale to read the Roll of Honour.
Guest speaker Dr Trisha Grace, Principal of Frank Partridge VC Public School, spoke on the theme of honouring women in service and those supporting from home.
Service members later gathered for a luncheon at the Bowraville Ex-Services Club.
At Taylors Arm, both the dawn and main services were very well attended.
Around 60 people attended the traditional gunfire breakfast at the Pub With No Beer following the dawn service.
The main service featured a large parade that brought together community members and veterans.
Participants included members of the Taylors Arm Vietnam Veterans and Peacekeepers, cadets from 331SQN Coffs Harbour, and local school communities.
Lisa Boyle led the march with Benny the horse and Raptor the working dog, creating a memorable moment for attendees.
Students and staff from Medlow Public School, St Patrick’s Macksville, Macksville Public School and Macksville High School all took part.
The parade moved in time to the Nambucca District Band, bringing the service to a fitting and respectful conclusion.
By Mick BIRTLES
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