NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, The Hon. Jenny Aitchison, today joined veterans and staff from CDC NSW to officially unveil a special commemorative "Anzac Spirit" bus that pays tribute to Australians who currently serve and have served in the Australian Defence Force.
The "Anzac Spirit" bus will travel around the Hunter Valley and features a custom exterior wrap design depicting iconic images and symbols honouring the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps who served their country proudly. The design includes silhouettes of Australian diggers, poppies and an Australian sunrise along with the words "Lest We Forget" prominently displayed.
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said: "It is wonderful to see CDC NSW pay tribute to our local veterans in this way for
Anzac Day. These buses will be visible around the Hunter Valley over the next month and remind the local community of the great sacrifices made by past and present service men and women from our region."
The "Anzac Spirit" bus will remain in operation for one month following Anzac Day as a traveling memorial.
Chief Executive Officer of CDC NSW, David Mead said "CDC NSW is honoured to commemorate the courage and sacrifice of our Australian veterans and active military members through this special 'Anzac Spirit' bus design.
"CDC NSW employs many veterans across NSW and so this is a great way to also recognise those staff and thank them for their service. As we observe Anzac Day this year, we want to ensure those who served have access to transportation to pay their respects at memorial events across the communities in the Hunter Valley we serve."
CDC NSW staff member Rachel Wheatley said "as an ex serving member, wife of a current serving member and child of parents who also both served, this makes my heart smile. I am incredibly grateful CDC NSW is honouring our current and ex-service members.
"On Anzac Day, we come together as a nation to honour the memory of those who have fallen, to support our veterans, and to reaffirm our commitment to preserving the freedoms they fought so bravely to defend. I feel a deep sense of pride and responsibility to uphold the values and traditions that define our military heritage."
CDC NSW has also launched an Anzac Day commemorative bus that will operate in Sydney.
