The heavens opened momentarily upon the Anzac Day faithful gathered around the Cenotaph, however a moving service led by Cootamundra Ex Services President Garry James, Jacqui Vincent and guest speaker Warrant Officer Nikolai Rofe warmed the hearts of those in attendance and spurned further rainfall.

Proceedings begun 6am sharp with the mounting of the catafalque party before Mr James’ welcome brought the crowd, of between 400 and 500, together before the monument, observing the distinct significance of the date.

“By your presence here today, I know there is no doubt in your hearts and minds that this day is especially significant to you all,” Mr James said.

Service-goers then joined in unison for the hymn “Abide With Me” ahead of the reading of Psalm 23, “The Lord is my Shepherd.”

Warrant Officer Rofe, who was recently honoured in the Australia Day awards with a Medal (OAM) in the Military Division of the Order of Australia, then gave the commemorative address to the gathering, speaking openly of his pride, service and respect on the auspicious occasion. 

Warrant Officer Rofe has provided meritorious performance across many postings with an exemplary commitment to leadership and instruction of officer trainees and sailors across multiple vessels and training facilities, and expressed his admiration for those who served in World War II by feeding servicemen during wartime.

“It is no wonder we call the men and women who worked at home and fought overseas during this time the ‘Heroic Generation,’” he said.

This stirring address was followed by The Ode before a beautiful rendition of “Flowers of the Forest” preceded the Last Post, the minute’s silence and the Reveille.

The gathering was then led in a prayer of remembrance followed directly by the Benediction, before a recital of the national anthem and the formal guard dismount concluded the morning’s proceedings. 

Service attendees were invited to join in unison at the Ex-Services Club for breakfast after what was a deeply moving service.