General news
2 May, 2025
ANZAC Day 2025: Honouring Service and Sacrifice Across Bland Shire
110 years since Gallipoli landings
ON Friday, April 25, 2025, communities across Bland Shire came together to commemorate ANZAC Day, paying tribute to the service and sacrifice of Australian and New Zealand military personnel.
From the streets of West Wyalong to the quiet corners of Ungarie, Barmedman, Weethalle, and Mirrool, the day was marked by solemn ceremonies, community gatherings, and a renewed sense of national pride.
West Wyalong: A Day of Reflection and Remembrance
West Wyalong's ANZAC Day services began with a dawn service at the War Memorial, where a crowd gathered in the early morning light to honour the fallen. Later in the day, the community participated in a march through the town, culminating in a commemorative service that included the laying of wreaths and the playing of the Last Post. The day was further marked by the unveiling of a restored Douglas DC-3 Dakota aircraft, a significant piece of Australia's aviation history, which had undergone a multi-month restoration to be ready for the occasion. This event was highlighted by the New South Wales Minister for Regional NSW and Minister for Veterans, who praised the community's dedication to preserving its heritage.
Barmedman: A Centenary of Service
In Barmedman, the ANZAC Day service was a poignant reminder of the town's deep-rooted connection to Australia's military history. The ceremony, held at the local memorial, was attended by residents and visitors alike, reflecting on the sacrifices made by service members from the region. The event was part of a broader series of commemorations marking the centenary of the town's involvement in various historical events.
Ungarie: Community and Commemoration
Ungarie's ANZAC Day service took place at the RSL Memorial Park, a site rich with history. The park, featuring the RSL Memorial Gates, has long been a focal point for the community's remembrance activities. Residents gathered to honour the fallen, with local schoolchildren participating in the ceremony, laying wreaths, and reciting poems that highlighted the enduring legacy of ANZAC Day.
Weethalle and Mirrool: Small Towns, Big Hearts
In the smaller communities of Weethalle and Mirrool, ANZAC Day services were intimate affairs that underscored the close-knit nature of rural life. In Weethalle, the service was held at the local memorial, with residents coming together to reflect on the sacrifices made by service members. Similarly, Mirrool's ceremony was marked by a gathering at the town's memorial, where the community paid their respects in a heartfelt and personal manner.
A Day of Unity and Remembrance
Across Bland Shire, ANZAC Day 2025 was a testament to the enduring spirit of remembrance and community. From the early morning services to the afternoon gatherings, the day was marked by a shared commitment to honouring those who served and sacrificed for the freedoms enjoyed today. As the sun set over the region, the words "Lest We Forget" echoed in the hearts of all who participated, ensuring that the legacy of ANZAC Day continues to resonate for generations to come.
Read More: West Wyalong
