ANZAC Day is one of the few days in our national calendar that asks something simple, yet profound, of every Australian: to pause, to remember, and to show respect.
That is why I was deeply disturbed to hear of booing and disruption at dawn services in other cities this year. Such behaviour has no place at ceremonies dedicated to honouring those who served and sacrificed for our country. Whether one agrees or disagrees with aspects of a service, ANZAC Day is not the stage for protest, political point-scoring, or division.
Here in Tamworth, however, we saw the true spirit of the day.
The turnout at both the dawn service and the ANZAC march was exceptional. It was heartening to see such a strong community presence, with people of all ages gathering in respect and remembrance. Particularly moving was the growing number of young school students attending with their schools, learning firsthand the significance of service and sacrifice. That visible investment in remembrance by the next generation gives great hope for the future.
Equally inspiring was the presence of descendants of those who served in World War I, the legacy families of the Rats of Tobruk, and, most importantly, our older diggers who continue to stand as living reminders of Australia’s military history. Their attendance is not simply ceremonial — it is a bridge between generations.
The contribution of the 209 Cadet Unit here in Tamworth was also a standout. Their professionalism, discipline, and respectful conduct reflected the values that ANZAC Day represents. They should be commended for the pride they brought to the occasion.
What made Tamworth’s commemorations so meaningful was the atmosphere of dignity and unity. It was a day marked by gratitude, reflection, and community spirit exactly as it should be.
That is why it is so disappointing to see political figures elsewhere using ANZAC Day as a platform for their own agendas. Public commentary and rhetoric that inflames division undermines the solemnity of the occasion. When political narratives are pushed into spaces of remembrance, they risk encouraging behaviour that disrespects the very purpose of these ceremonies.
In particular, it is deeply concerning when ANZAC Day is used to amplify political propaganda rather than honour the fallen. Public figures should know better than to inject partisan messaging into a day of national reflection. Such conduct does not strengthen public debate it cheapens a sacred occasion and contributes to the hostility we have seen at ceremonies, including during Welcome to Country.
This is where leadership matters. If politicians choose to align themselves with those who exploit ANZAC Day for political theatre, they must also accept responsibility for the consequences. Barnaby Joyce, as someone with a background in the armed forces, should be especially aware of the importance of preserving the dignity of military commemorations. Service to country demands respect for the institutions and traditions that honour those who served.
That is why he should not tolerate let alone appear to endorse the use of ANZAC Day as a vehicle for divisive rhetoric. If such behaviour continues, he should make it clear that he will not stand alongside those who misuse these occasions for political gain. Silence or association can be interpreted as acceptance, and Australians deserve better from their leaders.
ANZAC Day belongs to veterans, families, cadets, and communities not to political opportunists seeking attention.
The lesson from this year is clear: communities like Tamworth showed what ANZAC Day can and should be respectful, inclusive, and centred on honouring service above all else.
If we are to preserve the meaning of ANZAC Day for future generations, we must insist that it remains above politics. It belongs to the veterans, the families, the cadets, and the communities who gather in quiet gratitude not to those seeking headlines.
On that front, Tamworth set the standard.
Vanessa Phelps says she just an average mum running a grass roots independent campaign for the 2027 state election for the seat of Tamworth.
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