"A BEACON of light and inspiration to rising and future generations."
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That is how Bathurst RSL Sub Branch president David Mills described the new eternal flame which was unveiled during the Anzac Day dawn service on Thursday.
Fittingly it was dedicated by three World War II veterans - one of each whom served in the Royal Australian Air Force, Royal Australian Navy and Australian Army - but the significance of the moment was shared by many more.
They bowed their heads in respect, silent, wrapped in the darkness of the pre-dawn at War Memorial Carillon in Kings Parade. They took the time to remember with pride and gratitude.
"There are voices that argue money invested in memorials and remembrance services is better spent on veterans. As you look upon this memorial, and similar memorials around our nation, it's easy to understand they play a diverse and vital role," Mills said.
"They are repositories of life and ennobled memory, giving meaning where there was none. They remind us of where we came from, those who gave us what we have, made us who we are.
"They remind us the truths by which we live and of the values that define and bind us as a community.
"It is here within the hallowed walls of this memorial, it's here that families, friends, citizens and youths can reflect and never forget the high price paid by so many men and women who faced enemies of our country with courage and patriotism.
"Our war memorial Carillon is more than bricks and mortar, for here lies the spirit of Anzac. Our Carillon is prominent across the city.
"The flame that is an enduring light to guide us in commemoration and remembrance. The eternal flame provides a very visible and continuous reminder of the sacrifice made by our nation's servicemen and women.
"It should ever remain a beacon of light and inspiration to rising and future generations."
For the first time, at the conclusion of the service members of the public were invited into the Carillon and to pay their respects at the eternal flame. Hundreds chose to do so, many pausing to lay a sprig of rosemary as their of paying tribute.