Anzac Day 2020: Lonely Last Post echoes across Bega

With no official services sanctioned and residents urged to find other ways to honour our many service men and women, Anzac Day 2020 was a vastly different prospect than previous years.

Candles and flags were displayed in front yards and neighbours emerged to stand and pause in their driveways. The sounds and vision of the televised national service filtered out through many a front window.

The sight and sound of cornet player John Winson of Bega playing the Last Post, alone on his verandah looking back over town as the sky turned pink and orange on the horizon, was just as powerful as if crowds accompanied it.

He was in his Bega District Band uniform and wearing his father's medals.

Fred Winson served in the Middle East and Korea as well as with the occupying forces in Japan, which is where he met John's mother.

"He was born in England and came to Australia on a ship when he was 15," John said.

"He jumped ship in Sydney and ended up in Bombala!"

John said among Fred's service medals and record is a citation from the American President as well as specific mentions in dispatches regarding one particular battle.

Back in town, the Bega Memorial Gate had wreaths already laid and flags at half mast, perhaps indicating some small service took place.

Elsewhere it was left to residents to honour our service men and women in their own way.

Who did you stand for? Was it for a relative or an ancestor who served? Where did they serve and what was their sacrifice? Or are you a veteran yourself? How did you show your respect this year?

Send in your story and photos to ben.smyth@begadistrictnews.com.au and we will add them to the gallery above.