The new fellow is a bronze statue of a World War I soldier, head bowed in respect, rifle at rest. The addition of the statue, sculpted and cast by Evelone Bronze in Sydney, is accompanied by three new plaques on the memorial. The first recognises the contribution of women in all conflicts and services, and the second for the veterans of the Vietnam War. The third, set below the soldier, is a recognition of the 100 years of ANZAC.

A lead-up to the day is a visit to Tingha School this Thursday. Tingha RSL sub-branch president Dave Whitton said one of the two mounted soldiers will visit the school on the day in uniform and speak to the students about the ANZACS.

Tingha’s commemorations formally begin with the Dawn Service at 6am at the memorial at the Sports and Recreation Centre on Saturday. Senator John Williams will address the gathered with a message from Prime Minister Tony Abbott.

A breakfast follows at the club open to everybody.

Marchers will convene at the corner of Opal and Ruby Streets. Mr Whitton said Ted Payne has organised several vintage cars to transport those veterans who would like to participate, but may be too infirm to march. 

The procession will be led by the mounted soldiers, and proceed to the memorial. A Catholic priest will dedicate the new bronze soldier.  A lunch in the clubhouse, catering for 100, will follow the ANZAC ceremony. 

Mr Whitton and sub-branch vice-president, and Vietnam veteran John Scanlon said that any veterans of any conflict were very welcome.

“There still is a few Vietnam veterans in the woodwork, and (if) they feel like, sort of, having a march down,” Mr Scanlon offered.

Mr Whitton welcomed them all and will organise vehiles for those who cannot march. “It’s not a problem to us. It’d be just a pleasure to have them.”

To learn about transport, phone Dave Whitton on 6723 3133, Audrey McArdle on 6723 3361 or Ted Payne on 6723 3324.