From the outskirts of the Southern Downs, to its central remembrance sites, and stretching to Tenterfield, our communities had prepared to pause to reflect on the 108th anniversary of the Armistice that ended the First World War on 11 November 1918.
Of the Armstice, Southern Downs Mayor, Cr Melissa Hamilton said that in its signing, "Australia made a promise to remember the service and sacrifice of 416,000 Australians who enlisted and over 60,000 who died."
"Honouring that promise is also important for all of the veterans of other wars and conflicts, to say to them that we will always remember them," Mayor Hamilton said.
"Remembering is also important for us as a nation, as it gives us an opportunity to think about the shared values that our brave veterans and current serving personnel defend."
She posed the question of, "What is it that brings us together as a nation, and that we think is important to protect?"
"If our democracy and government institutions are worth fighting for, and are worthy of this immense sacrifice, it’s a reminder to all of us that we should live in a way that respects and protects these things."
Tenterfield Shire Mayor, Cr Bronwyn Petrie told our newspaper that on Remembrance Day it's "very important to recall the sacrifices made," having attended a November 8 lunch to mark the commemoration early, among local community members "who may not be able to gather on a week day". Tenterfield Deputy Mayor, Cr Greg Sauer gave the address on November 11.
The traditions of November 11 allow us to remember all those who have died or suffered in war and on peacekeeping and humanitarian operations.
Our newspaper will continue reporting on Remembrance Day in the next edition.
Lest we forget.
Read More: Tenterfield
