HEYWOOD came together at 11am Thursday, November 11 to remember its servicemen and women with a Remembrance Day service at the town’s cenotaph.

Hosted by Heywood Returned and Services League (RSL) president Alicia Rentsch, the event started with a siren sound off by the Country Fire Authority before a minute’s silence.

Ms Rentsch then gave a small speech to attendees which was followed by the laying of the wreaths in honour of those who served.

Coming from a family of service personnel, Ms Rentsch said she was proud to lead the day.

“For me, it's a time to reflect and remember my own family,” she said.

“And for us as a community it’s important to support those that have fallen from the town of them.

“I joined the Navy 20 years ago, so I do commemorate Remembrance Day every year.

“But this is the first year I have been able to spend the day in Heywood so it's really rewarding for me to be here in my first year as RSL president.”

Ms Rentsch also brought along her four-year-old son, Finn, to the service so he could begin to understand the importance of the day.

“It’s so important for the younger generation to understand the stories of those who have come before us and sacrificed to give us the Australia we have today.

“Finn is quite used to coming along to services, he’s only four though so he doesn’t quite understand what’s happening.

“But he’s wearing his grandfather’s medal today very proudly and was very excited to take part.”

Although fundraising for the day had been hindered due to COVID restrictions, Ms Rentsch said she was pleased with the community support.

“There were a few changes and some things went online,” she said.

“But we have still seen fantastic sales of poppies and pins.

“We’ve had RSL members at the bakery collecting donations and the community has been very generous – we’re very thankful for the support.”