IMPRESSIVE crowds have wowed Tamworth Regional councillors with even the region’s smallest communities turning out in droves for Anzac Day services.
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Councillors attended services in every neck of the local government area and were astounded by attendances that rivalled the turnouts recorded for Anzac Day two years ago, which commemorated the 100th anniversary of Australian troops landing on the shores of Gallipoli.
At their meeting on Wednesday, councillors applauded the commitment by the region’s youngest residents who stood side-by-side veterans and their families.
Councillor Juanita Wilson was particularly moved by the atmosphere at Nundle’s service.
“To stand in the main street of Nundle, with the autumn leaves, local youth and the flyover was amazing,” she said.
“I was thrilled to see such unity and a really inordinate amount of wreaths.”
The growing contingent of youth at memorial services was a recurring theme in wrap-ups from organisers, and the RSL Sub-branch.
Something that didn’t elude councillor Glenn Inglis who visited the service in Duri and the march in the CBD.
“There were a lot more people there,” he said.
“There are an incredible number of schools in Tamworth.
“It was so nice to see so many students had taken the trouble to participate.
“And you see them walking with their chests out and their heads held high.”
Kootingal-based councillor Phil Betts said “the number of veterans has diminished” over the years, but the droves of “students have increased year-by-year”.
“It gives you a pretty good feeling and reminds you we do live in a beautiful country,” he said.
Council’s Charles Impey said the sizable crowds were testament to a community that is content.
“The region is going well, that’s the feedback I’m getting,” he said. “They understand there are challenges along the way, but overall, the region is happy.”
A sentiment shared by long-serving councillor Russell Webb.
“There’s lots of conflict in the world, but there is still a pride amongst people here,” he said.
“I had three bagpipers, from the pipe band, come up to me separately and say they had a great day and thanked council for the financial support.”