Today's Anzac commemorative service at the Inverell cenotaph was attended by hundreds of locals, many of whom made their way from lining Otho and Byron streets to see the passing Anzac Day parade, from 10.30am.
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The service, which marked the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan, and the end of the Vietnam War, left those in attendance in solemn commemoration.
Inverell’s RSL Sub Branch president, Pat McMahon, presided over the service and made particular comment of the excellent turnout of schools, serving Hunter River Lancers and ex-servicemen and women, and a host of local community organisations and groups.
“I would just like to thank all of the Inverell people. Just have a look at the turnout today to honour those who served,” Mr McMahon said, as the catafalque party dismounted from the cenotaph just before noon.
“It is just amazing, so thank you very much.”
Several local community organisations, groups, and schools laid wreaths at the foot of the cenotaph. Among the number, was Inverell VRA captain Jason Tom, who presented a tear drop wreath made by Kylie South’s KCL daycare group last week.
Kylie is an active member of the local VRA and said the opportunity for the childcare group to get involved came up during the Rescue Squad’s monthly meeting.
“The VRA lays a wreath every year and we were looking at where we were going to buy a wreath for this year,” she said.
Kylie said the youngsters worked hard on their contribution decorated with gum leaves and tissue-paper poppies, prompting plans to make it an annual activity.
We remember the Kurrajongs. They answered their country’s call.
- Inverell Family History Group, Ann Hodgens
“They had a wonderful time. They really enjoyed creating their own poppies,” she said.
“It’s really not a tradition that I want the children in my service, particularly my own two children, to forget.
This is something that we are going to be doing every year.”
Inverell Family History Group stalwart Ann Hodgens made a presentation during the service to announce planting of the group’s Kurrajong time capsule.
“Of the 252 Kurrajongs, 55 died, 132 were wounded or gassed. Of those who returned home, many were maimed or suffering shell shock or the after effects of gas poisoning,” Mrs Hodgens said.
“The committee decided to have a time capsule made to contain items of this historic event (100 years after the Kurrajong’s departure).
“We remember the Kurrajongs. They answered their country’s call.”
