Gunnedah Shire Band commemorates Anzac Day 2020 apart, but together

Normally they would gather to play for the various ceremonies around Werris Creek and Gunnedah, taking centre stage in the customary marches through town.

But this year brought something different.

Due to Covid-19 bans on gatherings, they each stood out in their neighbourhood streets to play spine-tingling solo renditions.

As the clock ticked 6am and the sun began to rise, Gunnedah residents could hear the haunting melodies waft over the cool air.

One of the band's committee members Lisa Roach helped coordinate the effort after hearing about the 'Music for Mateship' initiative.

She couldn't have been prouder of everyone's efforts.

"I thought it was a good idea given all the kids involved with the band don't have anything to work towards at the moment with the lockdowns, and seeing as we had to cancel our big New Zealand trip," she explained.

"We were standing in our driveway, we have two girls in the band, and just before our youngest started, we heard three other people playing.

"It was such a still, quiet morning, and it was a real moment of unity, one of rallying the troops."

With everyone lighting candles, making montages and displays in their gardens, this year's Anzac Day made everything extremely personal, and Ms Roach said she could see this becoming a tradition.

"I actually think this will carry through in the future," she predicted.

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"This was a nice opportunity for all the kids in the band to have a go at playing the songs.

"I think the neighbours really appreciated it - we have had so much feedback, expressions of appreciation, and I think really put a lot more personal touches to the day."

Head to Gunnedah Shire Band's Facebook page to see more.

The next mission for the band will be the Gunnedah Eisteddfod, which is holding its inaugural online competition this year.

They are readying their registrations before they close on May 13.

To join them, visit www.gunnedaheisteddfod.com.au.