In its first year back since the COVID-19 cancellation of 2020's ceremony, Anzac Day saw families and community members of Wagga grateful to be a part of the day once more.

The march came to a stop by the Victory Memorial Gardens where wreaths were laid at the cenotaph to the sound of the military band.

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Mayor Greg Conkey welcomed the day's proceedings, and said it was an occasion on unity and respect.

"Today is a day of commemoration for the men and women of all races, creeds, religions and nationalities who fought for our freedom," he said.

"We owe a great deal of thanks to our servicemen and women, their dedication, integrity, courage and perseverance."

The ceremony saw many overcome with emotion, Australian flag in hand, as the Royal Australian Air Force Wagga Base Group Captain Chris Ellison shared stories of sacrifice.

"In a few hours' drive from this cenotaph, there are six war cemeteries," he said.

The names laid to rest within those six cemeteries alone each had heartbreaking, inspiring, courageous stories to tell, with Group Captain Ellison leaving the crowd to remember a handful, both from the region and wider country.

At the close of the ceremony, attendees mingled to celebrate what it means to be Australian.

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