Hundreds of people lined the streets of Wingham to commemorate Anzac Day and witness the annual parade.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The procession traveled from Bent Street to Wingham Memorial Town Hall and included former service men and women as well as their families.
The parade also featured Wingham RSL sub-branch, Wingham Services Club, Wingham RSL Auxiliary, Wingham RSL Brush Day Club, Legacy, Wingham Red Cross, Manning Valley Historical Society, Wingham High School, Wingham Brush Public School, Wingham Public School, St Joseph’s Wingham, Taree Christian College, MidCoast Council, Wingham Scout Group, Fire and Rescue NSW Wingham and State Emergency Service.
Lesley Godwin was at the front of the parade.
“I was in the army medical service so Anzac Day means a bit to me,” she said.
She was extra keen to be involved as it coincided with her first ride in a Jeep.
Once again, the Manning Valley Pipes and Drums were involved in the ceremony.
The group has volunteered at the Wingham service for over 40 years.
Piper Graeme Clarke said it was an honour to play on Anzac Day and added that he has been with the group for about 20 years.
The parade made its way to Wingham Memorial Town Hall where a service was held.
The service was led by Brian Willey.
“It really is wonderful to see so many people turning up for this occasion and to show your respect for veterans past and present,” Mr Willey said.
Related:
Reverend Darrell McKeough was tasked with the Prayer for the Fallen and Benediction during the ceremony.
Wingham High School captain Paige Webster delivered the commemoration address.
Reverend Trevor Leggett then gave the Prayer of Thanksgiving before many laid wreaths at the entrance to the hall.
Pastor Paul Smith gave the Prayer for the Nation, Eric Richardson OAM recited The Ode and bugler Lincoln Harrell played The Last Post and Rouse.
Choir group Kantable gave haunting renditions of Melita, I Vow To Thee My Country, What a Wonderful World and Advance Australia Fair throughout the service.
Wingham Chronicle streamed the parade live on Facebook and attracted viewers from as far as Tweed Heads, Hobart, Rockhampton, Yamba, Maitland Vale, Terrigal, Broken Hill, Gold Coast as well as overseas in Hong Kong and USA.
“My values of Anzac Day started in Wingham when marching with the school feeling very proud,” wrote Marelle Vaughan.
“Was wonderful to see everyone out and marching,” wrote Bronwyn Wallace.
“Great show of respect! Very wet today. Well done all who came to either march,” wrote Debbie Crane.
“An amazing day to say thank you to all that fought for us all and lost lives,” wrote Donna Saxby.