Yesterday we could not have asked for better Autumn weather across the region to once again pause to remember the sacrifice of our defence force over the years.

In Armidale more than 1000 people were up early for the dawn service, and at the march later in the morning we again saw crowds return.

Armidale RSL president Max Tavener OAM said attendance levels were higher than previous years following a hiatus last year during the Coronavirus pandemic.

We still have several ongoing events in our region to honour fallen soldiers, including an exhibition at Hillgrove which was opened by mayor Ian Tiley.

I mention this support for Anzac Day because it is not something that can be taken for granted.

While Anzac Day has been around for all our lives as a memorial service beginning as Australian communuities mourned thousands during World War I, public opinion will probably determine its demise sooner rather than later, according to one of the country's leading war historians.

Professor Robin Prior's assessment of the future of Anzac Day matches research showing fewer Australians intended going to a ceremony or march this year.

It also suggested a growing number believe the Anzac story is losing its relevance.

Last week we heard New England MP Barnaby Joyce urging people to attend services in our region.

Mr Joyce said 'for what they have done, this we will do' is the simple reason all Australians must ensure the legacy of commemoration continues.

Last year we could not have crowds come together. This year there were some communitues not far from us that were disappointed with their attendance.

So it is heartening to see the support from the Armidale community for Anzac Day. Lest we forget.

Laurie Bullock

Group Editor