Townsville’s veterans were “amazed” at the community attendance for this year’s Anzac Day parade at The Strand

Townsville’s National Servicemen’s Association president has shared at the Anzac Day parade how important it is for locals to remember those who have served. SEE THE PICS

Two Townsville veterans have shared how special it is to see thousands of locals turn up to this year’s Anzac Day parade, highlighting the importance of remembering the fallen.

Locals clapped as soldiers, veterans and hundreds more moved along The Strand, finishing at Anzac Memorial Park.

National Servicemen’s Association president Neville Hines rode through the parade, and said it’s special to see so many gather to remember the fallen.

“I was very amazed at the number of people that came this year,” he said.

“It was a massive sight of so many people just remembering everything going on in the past that gives us peace today.”

Anzac Day 2025. Strand parade in Townsville. Neville Hines. Picture: Evan Morgan

Mr Hines, a veteran himself, said he lost a relative during the Battle of Pozieres in the First World War.

“I had a great uncle that was only 19 years old, and he went over,” he said.

“The Red Cross records from two mates that he had said that they saw him fall in the mud and he was shot through the forehead.”

Townsville RSL president Colin Mosch said it’s important for community members and veterans to connect on Anzac Day.

“At The Dawn Service, we remember the fallen, and then later on during the day we thank veterans for their service, and that’s where we catch up,” he said.

“Anzac Day is one of those few occasions now that can bring the whole country together.”

Anzac Day 2025 parade: City marches to pay respect to veterans and ADF personnel

VIEW GALLERY

Mr Mosch served as an inventory soldier for 15 years in 1 RAR, completing operational services in Cambodia and Rwanda, as well as two tours of East Timor.

He said it was special to see so many local families attend and join in on Townsville’s Anzac Day parade.

“There wouldn’t be many families in Australia that can’t find a connection to someone who’s got previous service and that’s the same for my family,” Mr Mosch said.

Mr Hines said it’s incredibly important for veterans and community members to connect and share positivity.

“It brings people out and they meet together, talk about old times and have a beer,” he said.

“Anzac brings people out of their homes, meeting with people and having friendship.”

Originally published as Townsville’s veterans were “amazed” at the community attendance for this year’s Anzac Day parade at The Strand