A MINUTE'S silence fell across the region on Wednesday morning as locals stopped to reflect on the 102nd anniversary of the end of World War I.
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However, the COVID-19 pandemic forced commemorations to be far different this year, with the Tamworth RSL Sub Branch taking its ceremony online.
Locals watched a live-stream of the ceremony, which was held in the Passchendaele Room of the Tamworth War Memorial Hall in front of a small crowd of 30, at venues across the city such as Wests.
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Tamworth RSL Sub Branch president Jayne McCarthy said it was a pleasure to be able to host a ceremony of any description.
"Today [Wednesday], we honour the sacrifices of those who served their country in a time of war," Ms McCarthy said.
"We have gathered to remember, pause for a moment and reflect on the end of World War I.
"I encourage everyone to not just spare a moment today [Wednesday] but everyday and remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country."
Oxley High School, Calrossy and Tamworth Public School students gave stirring addresses during the service, which also included live crosses to alternative sites for the traditional laying of wreaths and the last post.
The service also marked a return to fundraising for the sub branch in the form of the annual Poppy Appeal, which raises funds to help support returned servicemen and women.
"It was tough not being able to do any of the fundraising or events we would usually do around Anzac Day this year," Ms McCarthy said.
"However, with the help of our very dedicated volunteers, we have been able to get the Poppy Appeal going, which goes a long way to helping local veterans.
"That appeal isn't over yet and any donations are always more than welcome."
Billy Jupp
Billy is a Senior Livestock Journalist for the Queensland Country Life based in Toowoomba. He has worked for a variety of different ACM mastheads during the past five years including the Namoi Valley Independent, Northern Daily Leader and The Land.
Billy is a Senior Livestock Journalist for the Queensland Country Life based in Toowoomba. He has worked for a variety of different ACM mastheads during the past five years including the Namoi Valley Independent, Northern Daily Leader and The Land.
