THE community turned out in record numbers for this morning's Dawn Service.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
RSL Sub-Branch president Greg Laird estimated there were more than 5000 people in attendance in and around the Town Green.
The crowd stood in respectful silence throughout the prayers and addresses. The silence was broken only by the crowd's enthusiasm in song.
A dolphin's splash in the Hastings River at the start of the service lent a recognisably local flavour to proceedings.
The commemorative address was delivered by leading seaman Bryce Thompson, from the TS Rushcutter, as people of all ages listened attentively in the cold dawn light.
At the end of the service Mr Laird thanked veterans of the forces, as well as special guests including Lyne MP Rob Oakeshott and mayor Peter Besseling.
The presence of a high proportion of young people and families was also noted. In particular, Mr Laird expressed his gratitude for the respectful and generous nature of those who attended.
"It wasn't just a big crowd today - it was a quality crowd," he said. "There were people stretched out as far as you could see.
"It was an excellent way to begin the day."
Veterans and their guests moved on to Port Macquarie Panthers for breakfast, before assembling for the march up Horton Street at 10am.
To see more photos from the Anzac Day dawn service, click the image below.