Community spirit shone, starting with the dawn service where around 100 people braved the cold wind and drizzle to pay their respects, while a second service at the MPS was also well supported. 

Later in the day, many more lined Bradley Street to witness the annual march of veterans, their supporters and a host of local school children. 

As the march formed, a Super Hornet broke the silence as it flew past, before making a second pass over the F111 crash site east of Guyra.

Although last year saw the biggest turnout in many years, as Australia and New Zealand marked 100 years since the landing at Gallipoli, this year the service also attracted a large crowd.

Perhaps more significant for Guyra, this year marked 100 years since the formation of the 33rd Battalion, in which many of the town’s young men served. 

The commemorative  address was given by Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall, who shared the history of the 33rd Battalion and the significant contribution they made to the war effort.

RSL Sub-branch President Hans Hietbrink said that he was very pleased with the turnout at all local services.

“We were extremely heartened by the positive response from the community,” he said. “I commend Adam Marshall for his commemorative address which was extremely relevant and well received.”

“Thank you to all who came and also for the generosity by way of donations to the RSL.”

The Catafalque Party was provided the Armidale Air Force Cadets and included Guyra’s Hunter Davidson. A framed photograph of Hunter’s grandfather Doug Faint was presented by Iris Mulligan following the service. Hunter will travel to the Western Front in July visiting World War I battlefields.

The day was not just a time to pay homage to those who served in World War I or the original Gallipoli landings, but a time to reflect on what the Anzac spirit means to modern day Australia and to remember those who served in all wars as well as those currently deployed.