Remembrance Day to be commemorated across North West

Remembrance Day will commemorated across Narrabri and Gunnedah Shires on Wednesday, 11 November.

The origins of Remembrance Day date back to the end of World War I in November 1918 when the guns of the Western Front fell silent after more than four years of continuous warfare.

The Germans had called for an armistice (suspension of fighting) in order to secure a peace settlement and accepted the allied terms of unconditional surrender. The 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month attained a special significance in the post-war years and became universally associated with the remembrance of those who had died in the war.

In Australia and other allied countries, 11 November became known as Armistice Day. After the Second World War, the Australian government agreed to the United Kingdom’s proposal that Armistice Day be renamed Remembrance Day.

In November 1997, Governor-General, Sir William Deane, issued a proclamation formally declaring 11 November Remembrance Day. He urged all Australians to observe one minute’s silence at 11am on 11 November to remember all those who died or suffered for Australia’s causes in all wars and armed conflicts.

The words “Lest We Forget” remind us of the importance of keeping their memory alive for future generations.

Narrabri

A memorial service will start at 10:45am at the Narrabri War Memorial in front of the Narrabri RSL Memorial and Citizens Club.

Wee Waa

Gunnedah will commemorate Remembrance Day at the Cenotaph, located at the corner of Conadilly and Elgin Streets.

Memorial service at 11am at the Wee Waa War Memorial, Rose Street. Community members and visitors kindly asked to gather by 10:45am.

Baan Baa

Service at the memorial at 11am. Light refreshments to follow in the Baan Baa Community Hall.

Boggabri

Memorial service at 11am at the Boggabri War Memorial, at the corner of Merton and Brent Streets. Community members and visitors kindly asked to gather by 10:45am.

Gunnedah

Muster at 10.30am at the Cenotaph, Conadilly Street. Service starts at 10:45am with the welcome, reading, prayers and The Ode. The Last Post will sound at 11am. Wreaths to be laid at the Cenotaph. Lunch to be held at Club Gunnedah, with guests gathering from 11:30am for a 12pm lunch.