Mr Coulton said Anzac Day was Australia’s annual opportunity  to give thanks for those who served, and continue to serve, their nation. 

“Anzac Day is our nation’s day of thanks for all those who have worn, and who wear today,  our nation’s uniform,” he said. 

“More than one million Australians have served their nation since the formation of the  Australian Defence Forces last century, including many, many locals from this region. Anzac  Day is their day and our nation’s opportunity to show our appreciation for their service and  sacrifice.” 

Mr Coulton said while Anzac Day rightly commemorates one of the first occasions of Australians in battle, it  is fitting that it also commemorates those who served in World War Two, Korea, Malaya,  Borneo, Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan and in peacekeeping and peacemaking operations across  the world. 

Mr Coulton said there would be services in communities right across the Parkes electorate, giving everyone the opportunity to commemorate these sacrifices in their own way. 

“I encourage everyone living in the electorate of Parkes to participate in Anzac Day services across the community. Buying an Anzac badge to support the work of the ex-services community and attending a commemorative service are just two ways we can, as a  community, show our appreciation for the service and sacrifice of others in times of war and  peace.”