Cobar’s Anzac Day commemoration activities have had to be cancelled this Saturday like many other Anzac Day events around the world.
Due to Australian Government restrictions on gatherings during the Coronavirus pandemic, Cobar’s traditional Anzac Day dawn service, street march and mid-morning service at Drummond Park have all been cancelled.
Also affected is the Anzac Day luncheon at the Cobar Services Club and the friendly
Two-Up games that followed.
Cobar RSL Sub Branch secretary Robert Cooney said the decision was made by the NSW RSL which is the governing organisation that guides the Cobar RSL Sub-Branch.
“The decision took into consideration all duty of care for all involved with the activities on the day, not just veterans, but the entire community,” Mr Cooney said.
Anzac Day itself however has not been cancelled and Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel Darren Chester encourages locals to continue to pause this year to honour our servicemen and women.
“Australians are at their best when we come together to support one another and, while we cannot physically gather to commemorate the service and sacrifice of our Defence personnel, we can show them our respect,” Mr Chester said.
“Whether it’s a solitary driveway tribute, baking Anzac biscuits, a small ceremony with your household, sharing a message for our service personnel, or watching the televised service from the Australian War Memorial, I encourage everyone to pause and reflect.
“Teach your children about the importance of the day and the service of the original ANZACs as well as the service of the almost two million Australians who have served over more than a century.
“Think of those who are currently serving, both in Australia and abroad.
“And reflect on the more than 102,000 who have died in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations whose names are inscribed on the walls of the Australian War Memorial.
“Anzac Day is now more important than ever and we will remember them.” he said.
