Wauchope Cenotaph remembers those who served in World Wars 1 and 2, conflicts in Korea, Malaya and Vietnam and UN peacekeeping operations, and was recently upgraded to also recognise those who served in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Special thanks to the Hastings Pipe Band – always a rousing sound, and to the young bugler sounding The Last Post and Reveille. If, as parents, you’ve yet to attend a service with your children, it’s strongly recommended.

At our commemoration the representation of many local schools, the Guides and Scouts was notable, with more than a hundred schoolchildren present.

It was great to have Russell Churcher back as emcee, with his wonderful voice leading us in song as he has done for the past 20 years. Thanks Russell.

As emphasised during the addresses, Anzac Day is not a celebration of war, but a reminder of the tragedy of war – recognising bravery and sacrifice without glorifying conflict. Lest we forget.

The oration by Pastor Peter Huxley, concerning the perilous international political situation, the distinct possibility of global conflict, and the need for cool heads to prevail, was thought provoking.

But mostly I was struck by Peter’s honesty with respect to our larrikin history and the threats we face right now here at home, to our freedoms, and especially the right of free thought and speech. Diversity and discussion is strength, and dogma disrespects the sacrifices of the past.

Each of us needs to stand and protect our freedoms and not resent challenging issues and discussions; to resist attempts by fear and control mongers to limit what we as Australians are permitted to think and thoughtfully say.

These are Cr Intemann’s opinions and not necessarily council’s.