Community members of all ages attended the annual morning service, with Gunnedah mayor Jamie Chaffey a special guest.

The march was led by Liverpool Plains Pipes and Drums’ Gavin Shaw, with St Xavier’s student Cameron Neader carrying the Australian flag as veterans and their families followed behind.

A number of wreaths were laid by families in memory of those who have died. Wreaths were also laid by Wayne Matthews, on behalf of the Breeza Progress Society, and Nita Tudgey, on behalf of the Country Women’s Association.

Ten-year-old Cameron recited the poem Soul of Australia, and Sue Etheridge played The Last Post and the Reveille. Marlene Neader recited The Ode.

Cr Chaffey gave the commemorative address and said it was difficult for younger generations to understand that peace and freedom they enjoy came at a cost.

“Few of us have ever had to risk everything ourselves, our chance our loved ones to the dangers of war,” he said.

“But for older generations of Australians, remembering such things is easier.”

Cr Chaffey said a new generation of soldiers, airmen and sailors now served in troubled areas.

“It is now a long-standing tradition that on Anzac Day we all pause to remember those that offered up their life in the defense of their nation and community, which is the greatest contribution any citizen can make,” he said.

The mayor said it was "very Australian” to come together for a cause.

“Our natural disposition is to stick together in adversity and support each other,” he said.

“I like to think that this flows from the deepest springs of our national character and a belief that happiness is the right of all people in this country.”

In finishing, Cr Chaffey said Australians needed to be grateful for what they had.

“Future generations need to be reminded that happiness has a price. For surely if happiness if the product of freedom, then freedom is the reward of courage,” he said.

“We should be grateful to those that have helped preserve our nation and way of life through their sacrifice. In doing so, we keep bright the memory of those lives.

“It is in the remembrance of these things that communities across the nation come together on this day.”

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