THE bells of Bathurst’s historic War Memorial Carillon will ring out on Wednesday morning as the region commemorates Anzac Day.
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Carillioneur Ian Bates will play the 35 bells following the Dawn Service – the first time in many years the carillon has been part of the region’s Anzac services.
While residents are not used to hearing the bells so early in the morning, Mr Bates is confident everyone will appreciate the significance of the occasion.
It will be a busy day for Mr Bates.
He will also play after the main Anzac service, during the services at the Boer War Memorial and the Broken Blade, and will accompany the Lowering of the Flag at the Carillon at 6pm.
The carillon is a symbol held dear to many residents.
It was built with funds raised by Bathurst residents and people living in the surrounding villages and dedicated in 1933.
Merrick Webb wrote a poem dedicated to the War Memorial Carillon that is still as powerful today as it was then:
Grand tower of dull red brick,
Glad, singing bells,
Wakening again the pulse of sympathy
In hearts which cherish a sacred memory
Of Gallantry.
Yet known the wickedness of war
And hate its name.
Sing, oh ye bells,
Sind loud of victory.
Sing sweetly, clearly, of a glorious peace.
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