Youth out in force at 2025 Ballina Remembrance Day Ceremony
More than a century after the guns fell silent on the Western Front, Ballina paused at 11am on November 11 to mark Remembrance Day — a moment of reflection that continues to unite the community across generations.
Under clear skies at the Ballina cenotaph, crowds gathered in solemn silence as North Coast Legacy President Narelle Scott delivered the Commemoration Address, urging Australians to “remember not only the past, but also the responsibilities we have inherited.”
Ms Scott said Remembrance Day was more than a commemoration of history — it was a call to action for compassion, unity and peace.
“We gather not only to honour the courage, sacrifice and resilience of those who have served our nation in times of war and peacekeeping,” she said,
“but also to reflect on the enduring value that their service represents.”
“Remembering to Remember”
This year’s theme, Remembering to Remember, echoed through the ceremony as speakers reminded the crowd that the freedoms Australians enjoy were not guaranteed, but earned through sacrifice.
Ms Scott said the red poppy — inspired by the fields of Flanders — stood as a symbol of both grief and hope.
“It reminds us not only of the blood shed and the lives lost, but also of hope, renewal and the enduring spirit of those who served,” she said.
The address also acknowledged the unseen cost of conflict — the “visible and invisible scars of war” borne by returning veterans and their families.
“We also acknowledge the families, parents, partners, children and friends who have endured hardship and loss, and whose support has been vital to our defence forces,” Ms Scott said.
Young Voices Lead the Way
This year’s ceremony saw strong youth participation, with Olivia Flanagan delivering a moving recitation of In Flanders Fields and local students helping lay wreaths alongside veterans and community leaders.
Ballina RSL Sub-branch President Jamie Tanner said it was heartening to see so many young people taking part.
“If we can remember the mistakes of the past, they cannot become the mistakes of our future,” he told the crowd. “Lest we forget.”
“A Commitment to Peace”
In closing her address, Ms Scott said the act of remembrance should inspire Australians to live with gratitude and compassion in a turbulent world.
“Our freedoms, our democracy and our way of life are not guaranteed,” she said. “They are the result of ordinary Australians who answered the call of duty in extraordinary times.”
“By remembering, we honour those who gave everything — and we inspire each other to contribute to our community, to stand up for what is right, and to work for a more peaceful world.”
As the bugler’s notes of The Last Post faded into silence, the crowd bowed their heads — young and old, veterans and families — united in remembrance.
Lest we forget.
