COURAGE, endurance and sacrifice were the central themes of yesterday’s Remembrance Day commemoration service in Bathurst.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Just over 100 people turned out on Kings Parade to remember the fallen and the sacrifices they made for their country.
Bathurst RSL sub branch vice president John Graham said while Anzac Day was still the biggest day for remembering fallen Diggers, Remembrance Day services were growing every year.
He said the return to Australia of an unknown soldier reignited interest in Remembrance Day.
Mr Graham said the sub-branch was trying to encourage younger veterans who have problems associated with their service to contact them.
He said members have a great deal of expertise when it comes to providing advice and assistance with pensions.
“Today we come together with a simple ceremony for those who paid the price and give thanks to our comrades,” he said.
Mayor Gary Rush said Novem-ber 11 is a significant day for the people of Australia to stop, pause and reflect on the qualities of courage, endurance and sacrifice.
Cr Rush said 436 World War One Diggers from the Bathurst region made the ultimate sacrifice, and asked people to reflect on the impact that would have had on what was then a small community.
“This is a day we can stop and put ourselves in their shoes, and some of you have stood in that place, so we can stand here in this beautiful place that is alive with Anzac spirit,” Cr Rush said.
A short commemorative address was also given by Callie Molkentin of West Bathurst Public School, who spoke of her ancestors who served in World War One and World War Two.
Among those who laid a wreath at the War Memorial Carillon were Ken Tucker and his family, who were honouring his mother Winsome Betty Tucker (nee Glasson), who served as a nurse on a hospital ship in World War Two.
She went to the Middle East and New Guinea and, on her return, worked at Bathurst Base Hospital. She was a lifetime member of the Red Cross.
An artist, Mr Tucker later presented a moving painting he created, after a visit to the Australian War Memorial, in memory of his mother to be displayed at the RSL.
He said he painted it so the Diggers blended into the landscape, just as they have now – 100 years later.
“It gives me a great deal of honour. I’m so proud of my mum,” Mr Tucker said.