Standing proudly alongside one another, thousands of Clarence Valley residents attended Dawn Services and Commemoration Services across the region on Anzac Day (April 25) to pay tribute on the 110th anniversary of the landing at Gallipoli in 1915 during World War I (WWI) while also remembering the countless Australians who served, and sadly lost their lives, in wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations through the years.
Under an overcast sky and amidst scattered showers, prologues were read, prayers were recited, wreaths were respectfully laid at the base of cenotaphs, the Ode was recounted, and crowds bowed their heads in silence as buglers played The Last Post and Reveille.
President of the Grafton RSL Sub-Branch Leith Basset said it was very pleasing to see so many in attendance during the 2025 Anzac Day Commemoration Service in Memorial Park, Grafton, at 10am, including World War II (WWII) veteran George Smith.
Mr Smith joined the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) as an 18-year-old.
Posted to North Borneo, he spent two years in the tropics as the Australian forces fought against the Japanese troops before returning home.
With his loving family by his side, Mr Smith agreed Anzac Day is an important time for all Australians and said he always attends Commemoration Services to pay his respects.
Member for Clarence Richie Williamson attended the 2025 Anzac Day Dawn Service in Yamba from 5:45am and the 2025 Anzac Day Commemoration Service in Maclean at 11am and reflected on the brave and selfless actions of those who made the ultimate sacrifice to keep their country, and their loved ones, safe.
“Freedom is not free,” he said.
“That price was first paid on April 25, 1915, when the cheque of freedom was written in blood, sweat, and spirit.
“That same cheque has been signed by hundreds of thousands of Australian service members ever since.
“That same cheque is cashed by me, by you, by all Australians every single day.
“But today, above all days, we pause to acknowledge the cost.
“We remember their sacrifice, and we honour their legacy.”
Lest we forget.
See the full ANZAC Day coverage in the issue.
This article appeared in the Clarence Valley Independent, 30 April 2025.
