A joint initiative to create five life-sized World War II soldier photographs is now on show in Wauchope's main street.
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The display is part of the town's commemoration of Remembrance Day on November 11.
The photographs have been strategically placed on telegraph poles near the Wauchope cenotaph.
They will remain in place for about four weeks.
Wauchope RSL sub-Branch president Mick Brownlow says he wants the photographs to give more significance to this year's Remembrance Day.
"This was an idea born out of what we could do, rather than what we couldn't do during COVID-19," he said.
"We have been unable to host our Anzac Day and Remembrance Day services.
"So we got together with other like-minded community groups and came up with this concept of the photographs.
"Each one represents a branch or service of the defence forces along with a photograph for those currently serving or transitioning from service.
"We want the community to take a moment to pause and reflect about family and friends in the lead up to November 11 and to acknowledge those who gave the supreme sacrifice.
"Our idea was to create something very visual which would get a reaction from community."
Wauchope Rotary, Hastings Co-operative Ltd, Signs For Business and Emotional Technology were part of the initiative.
Mr Brownlow said he was pleased with the outcome.
"We love it. And we are really looking forward to getting plenty of feedback from the community.
"Importantly, the photographs will be repurposed during future services.
"I hope the Wauchope community embraces this concept," he added.
Port Macquarie-Hastings Council mayor Peta Pinson praised the installation.
"The pride that we have for our service men and women is increasing each year," she said.
"And we get to tell their stories. It is important that we pass on these stories to our younger population.
"The cenotaph provides the perfect backdrop to reflect on that history."
Hastings Co-op CEO Allan Gordon described the installation as "an excellent community event".
"Given the year that we have all experienced, how do you commemorate some of these significant community events," he said.
We have been unable to acknowledge Anzac Day or Remembrance Day, but these installations now provide something that we can all relate too.
- Allan Gordon
"We have been unable to acknowledge Anzac Day or Remembrance Day, but these installations now provide something that we can all relate too.
"It is also a great way to focus the community on the events of the past."
Co-op community development manager Tim Walker said the photographs will be long-lasting.
"We certainly see this installation as an opportunity to unite the region," he said.
Past Wauchope Rotary Club president Reg Pierce said the installation would help connect families.
"These photographs are a great way to connect people with members of their own families that have served," he said.
"If you look at history, the percentage of Australians that have served in the armed forces, everyone would have someone that has served.
"This installation is just that little bit more personal.
"This is what makes Wauchope such a unique community. These little things that people do that make us all feel like we belong to something or someone.
"These installations will make us all feel that closer connection," he added.
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