UPPER Hunter Shire mayor Wayne Bedggood has praised the community for their Anzac spirit during a number of services across the region this week.
Mr Bedggood, who attended the ceremonies at Murrurundi on Monday, said there had been renewed interest.
“For many years I have been attending Anzac Day services in the Upper Hunter, and I have seen a resurgence in community interest, particularly with the numbers of people in their 20’s and 30’s.
Perhaps in recent years they have more friends or family in the forces serving overseas.
The participation of children and young people on Anzac Day is particularly special. On a public holiday they put on their school uniforms, march, sing and quietly take in the ceremony.
It is a great tribute that over 100 years we continue to commemorate and honour the service and sacrifice of our military and those that care for them.
Murrurundi held very special services for Anzac day, with nearly 100 at the dawn service and over 400 in attendance at the morning ceremonies.
I was honoured to be there and to speak to serving military personnel, veterans and war widows, and the many volunteers from the pipes and bugle players to those who are part of the Light Horse. It is a great community effort.”
