ANZAC Day services called off across the Macleay

The decision was made by the organisation after social gatherings of more than 500 people were banned.

Kempsey RSL Sub-branch president Allan Wardrope said the decision is disappointing for local veterans.

"The decision means we won't have any public services in the Macleay," he said.

"It's a disappointing decision, but we understand why it has been made."

The decision was also made to help protect the more vulnerable members of the community.

The RSL NSW acting president Ray James said the "risk to vulnerable people during the current health situation is simply too high for these events to continue in their traditional format".

"Given the significant concerns around the spread of COVID-19, it would be irresponsible to allow such large gatherings as we see each year on Anzac Day to go ahead," he said.

Mr Wardrope said although public commemoration services have been cancelled, there is nothing stopping locals from holding private services themselves.

"There's nothing to say that people can't have their own services at home on ANZAC Day," he said.

"We encourage residents to stop and reflect on April 25. It's important to remember the trauma our veterans have gone through to keep our country safe."

Mr James said the day would still be marked, with the exact format still to be finalised.

"ANZAC Day is a marker of our respect and admiration for ANZACs past and present will still be observed," he said.

"Exactly what form this will take will be different from previous years, but as custodians of commemoration, the RSL will still honour the service and sacrifice of our brave servicemen and women.

"In these challenging times, we will remember them."

Mr Wardrope said he is investigating whether the Kempsey Macleay RSL Sub-branch will be able to hold a private service for local veterans.

"We may have a small service for veterans that will be closed to the public, but I don't know if we'll even be able to do that yet."

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