Thousands lined the Armidale CBD streets for the Anzac Day parade. Armidale’s famous autumn leaves, fanned by a chilly breeze fell on the passing parade as it made its way to the cenotaph in Central Park for the Anzac Day Commemoration Service. From the young and innocent to the frail and proud, the importance of Anzac Day was understood and demonstrated by those who turned up. Local RSL members appreciated the ever growing support. The Armidale community’s strong attendance was evident in the march, with a growth in participant numbers, particularly school children.
The Anzac Day address in Armidale was delivered by Commander Ian Campbell of the Royal Australian Navy. He has strong ties to the local area, having been a University of New England student from 1992 to 1996. His parents also previously resided in Armidale.
Commander Campbell is currently serving as Chief Legal Advisor to the Chief of the Navy. He has a distinctively varied service record. His career has seen him deployed at sea, from border security to the middle east. Commander Campbell has acted as a prosecutor for both the Navy and the police.
His address was centred around the principles of mateship and how they are both the epitome of the Anzac spirit and a way in which Australians can continue the Anzac tradition today, in everyday life.
“Show courage in helping your mates. Help those who you don’t know because it’s the right thing to do. Put others before yourself and show that you have learned from the Anzacs,” he said.
Story: Gary Fry
