NELSON Bay RSL Sub-Branch vice president Tom Lupton said he was blown away by the number of people that attended Monday morning’s dawn service on the Tomaree Peninsula.
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Between 1500 and 2000 people – from small children to the aged – attended the Anzac Day early morning service in Apex Park.
“We expected a crowd but nothing like this,” Mr Lupton said.
“It’s so much better now that the memorial is on flat ground.
“Everyone can get a position to see. Its [memorial] position lends itself to people coming out to the services.”
The numbers to Monday morning’s Nelson Bay dawn service were on par with last year’s 100 years of Anzac centenary service.
RSL sub-branch member John Collins said it was especially great to see families and young children at the services.
Mr Collins and Mr Lupton were expecting even great numbers of people to line Stockton Street for the sub-branch’s 10.30am march. The main service in Apex Park will be held about 10.50am.
An equally large crowd attended the Medowie service at Lions Memorial Park. Officials placed the crowd at between 1500 and 2000 people.
“We gather in this year of the Queen’s 90th birthday and whatever your view of the monarchy, ours is of service and we remember those who sacrificed all, here today,” Father Chris Yates said.
The deputy mayor of Port Stephens, Cr Chris Doohan, said he was honoured to stand before a community so full of respect for its servicemen.
“Like Anzac Day 2015, the centenary of the Gallipoli landing, Anzac Day 2016 also has some significant milestones,” he said.
“It is 100 years ago that the battle of Fromelles took place [and] this was the first major battle fought by Australian troops, and is considered the most tragic war event in our history.
“The equivalent of more than half the population of Medowie, saw 5,553 Australian casualties.”
Medowie RSL Sub-Branch vice president Bob Parish said there were easily as many people in attendance when compared to last year, if not more.
“The Medowie service continues to grow and it is one of the best attended services in Port Stephens,” he said.
“It’s great to see people turnout in these numbers to recognise our servicemen and what they’ve given for Australia.”
For a full list of Port Stephens services go to: 2016 Anzac Day services
