Merriwa remembers ANZACS

BETTINGTON Street was flooded with Merriwa residents yesterday, as the community came together to remember the ANZACS.

A Dawn Service and communal breakfast was followed by a March from the Merriwa RSL Club to the Cenotaph.

A Remembrance Service was then held at the Cenotaph, with special Singletonian guest speakers, Luitenant Barker ARA and her father Captain Barker RAN.

See photo gallery below.

Michelle Loft, Merriwa resident, daughter of Vietnam Veteran Robert Baihn and Secretary of the Merriwa RSL Sub Branch said ANZAC Day is a very patriotic day in the town.

Rob Baihn, Vietnam Veteran and President of the Merriwa RSL Sub Branch organised the ANZAC Services and March yesterday. Photo: Michelle Loft.

“It’s very sentimental day for my dad, he always puts a photo of his best mate Jimmy, who is also a Vietnam Vet, up on the Cenotaph,” Ms Loft said.

“I’ve been to a few marches, but in rural, you know everyone beside you . . . it definitely opens your eyes, when people come to a service here they really enjoy it and come back for more,” she said.

“It’s just so moving because everyone knew each other and everyone knows someone who has been there or has lost someone,” she said.

“The locals always turn up, the schools all get involved and even though I’m sure the kids don’t want to get dressed in their uniforms on a Sunday, they always come and really enjoy it.

“The school children from St Josephs recited an amazing poem, everyone said it brought tears to their eyes. Merriwa Central School also did some readings, it was lovely,” said Ms Loft.

Merriwa resident Bronwyn Smith, said the services were professionally run, yet had a personal touch and welcoming feel.

“I really enjoyed seeing people of all ages coming together to honour the ANZACs past and present,” Ms Smith said.

Photo Gallery

Courtesy of Bronwyn Smith