The Port Macquarie RSL Sub-branch president has praised participants at the rain-soaked Anzac Day Dawn Service.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The event was held in constant rain, but Greg Laird OAM said the crowd was 'attentative' and 'respectful' throughout the service.
"It was unbelievable. I just can't believe the numbers that showed up on such a rainy morning," he said.
"While it was wet, everything went off without a hitch, although I did lose sight of my speech on the odd occasion.
"But I am very pleased to see that more and more people are attending this Dawn Service."
Mr Laird said the tradition of the Port Macquarie Anzac Day services, with the focus on the service men and women, was key to its success.
"I've lost count of the number of positive comments we get from locals and visitors on the way we present our services," he said.
"Today, the quality of the crowd was unbelievable. They were attentive and respectful, despite the conditions.
The quality of the crowd was unbelievable. They were attentive and respectful, despite the conditions.
- Greg Laird OAM
"It was just out of this world."
Hastings Secondary College's Nathan Barnett gave the address at the Dawn Service.
While admitting to being a bit 'nervous', Nathan said he hoped his speech epitomised the Anzac spirit.
"With the rain falling, I lost my place a couple of times," he said.
"Despite that, I wanted to draw on the inspiration that is the Anzac spirit.
"I wanted to show my respect to those who have served and are serving, and to honour the service they gave to this country.
"I am in awe of the dedication shown by those who served."
Nathan said during the writing of his speech he often reflected on the dedication and sacrifice made by those who gave their life to a cause they believed in.
Town Band bugler Amy Corrigan sounded The Last Post and Reveille with sub-branch chaplain Carl Moses providing the prayer of thanksgiving.
Ex-servicewoman Kaye Lee provided the prayer for the nation and serving members while Mr Laird read the Ode to the Fallen.
Blake O'Connor sang the New Zealand and Australian national anthems.
Fire & Rescue NSW and SES volunteers provided support in manning entrances to the cenotaph.
