This year, more servicemen and women were recognised than ever before, with crowds gathered facing the George Street side of the Carillon, where the words Gulf War, East Timor, Iraq, Afghanistan and Peacekeeping Operations were added earlier this month.

The solumn service focused on the courage, endurance and sacrifice of the Anzacs.

Bathurst RSL Sub Branch Committee president David Mills spoke of the commitment of those who had fought for Australia.

Sub Branch secretary Les Anderson said the decision to relocate the service to the George Street side of the Carillon was made for a number of reasons.

He said people could now stand in the park, rather than on Russell Street outside the court, and the move also allowed the many hundreds of school children involved to sit closer to the service.

“It was a success and the view from being up on that Carillon and looking down the park was amazing,” Mr Anderson said.

“It was a much better spot … it’ll be there for the future.”

Bathurst Regional Council mayor Graeme Hanger spoke at the service, and said the sacrifice of the Anzacs was immense.

All up, 1679 people from the Bathurst region served – 242 were killed in action, 743 were wounded and 325 fell sick following service.

Cr Hanger praised the number of young people in the Bathurst community who attended the service.

“There were more school kids than ever, it’s important that they know their heritage,” he said.

During her speech, Bathurst Youth Council mayor Sarah Driver told the crowd it was humbling to realise the trials and efforts of those “who not only protected us, but also protected our friends and allies”.

“While the Anzac tradition began on a beach in Gallipoli more than 100 years ago, Australia’s soldiers have always displayed such outstanding courage across many conflicts in so many corners of our world, and continue to do so today,” she said.