After 2 years of interruptions, ANZAC services around the region were well attended.
There were very large crowds in attendance at the main city services in Lithgow and Bathurst, and all the surrounding villages in the region.
“Anzac Day is sacred to Australians, as a time when we honour our nation’s defence personnel who have served across all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations,” said Andrew Gee, Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel.
“We must never forget the more than 102,000 Australians who have given their lives for our nation, and all those who have been physically and emotionally wounded, as well as their families,” said Minister Gee.
“There are many ways to mark Anzac Day, and it is very heartening to see local services returning this year now that COVID restrictions have eased. It will be the first Anzac Day since 2019 that many veterans and families can again come together with their communities for commemorations.” said Minister Gee.
In the village of Rydal, a special ivy wreath was laid by Daniel Morton, great great Grandson of Mrs R Mays who had long campaigned for a fitting memorial for returned servicemen and women in the town.
The wreath laid at this year’s service was made of ivy which was sent from London to Mrs Mays and still grows at the “Rose Hill’ property today.
Photos from Rydal Service, supplied by Rachael Young
