More than 100 people gathered at the cenotaph at Laurie Park to commemorate Australians who have served in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.

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This year marks the 106th anniversary of the signing of the armistice that ended World War One.

More than 60,000 Australians lost their lives in that war.

The service opened with a welcome address by sub-Branch President Allan ‘Buster’ Beatty.

Sub-Branch members shared poems and stories, adding a personal touch to the commemoration and offering a unique perspective on the impacts of war.

Presenters included sub-Branch Vice President Mark Heydon, Trustee Mike Donaldson, Auxiliary member Jillian Donaldson, Vice President Ian Jackson, and Treasurer Ian Chamberlain.

Camden Haven High School Captain Will Howard and Vice Captain Laura Partlett shared the honour of presenting the Remembrance Day address.

“It feels really nice to be involved with an event so meaningful to the community and to be able to give back,” Laura and Will told News Of The Area.

Piper Keith Robertson from Port Macquarie/Wauchope RSL Pipes and Drums performed ‘The Lament’ while sub-Branch members and community groups paid their respects by laying wreaths.

The wreath-layers included Year 4 students Tom and Maddy from St Joseph’s Primary School, who were both “nervous” and “happy” to be given this special honour.

The service continued with the reading of the ‘Ode of Remembrance’ by Mr Beatty, and the performance of ‘The Last Post’ by Ian Franks from the Camden Haven Concert Band.

A minute of silence was then observed before ‘The Rouse’ was played, before the ceremony concluded with the Australian National Anthem.

“We had a great crowd, made even more special by the inclusion of the Year 4 students from St Joseph’s Public School, and the wonderful address by school captain Will Howard and Vice Captain Laura Partlett,” Mr Beatty told NOTA.

“Their attendance and interaction during the ceremony supports the legacy of Remembrance Day.

“Previously, I was in the army for 38 years, so being able to bring the commemoration service to our members, community and the veterans of Camden Haven means the world to me.”

Elizabeth Turner returns every year to the Remembrance Day service at Laurieton.

Her personal recollections are a reminder of the lasting impact of conflict across generations.

“I am 89 now and I remember a lot about the war,” said Elizabeth, “it is so very sad to think of all the soldiers who never returned home.”

By Kim AMBROSE