Anzac Day is of increasing significance to Young residents past and present. A few of these people shared their inspiring stories.

James's epic ride a tribute to his grandfather.

For many Australians, Anzac Day has become synonymous with drinking and a day off work.

James Lamb however, wants to make sure the day is all about honouring the sacrifices made by Australians at war.

So yesterday he set off from Sydney on an arduous journey by bike to Young. 

Setting off at dawn, he aimed to make it to Young by sundown.

The decision to make the journey was inspired by his late grandfather Bill Lamb who was a Rat of Tobruk.

“Over the years I have done four 24 hour solo mountain bike races, each time as I ride through the depths of the night I think back to what my pop and our soldiers would of went through, year in year out in the trenches,” he said.

“It makes what I’m doing at the time seem a bit easier.”

His grandfather made a lasting impression on his life.

“My pop was the toughest guy I knew, it was so hard to say goodbye to him when he passed away,” James said.

“I’d like to let him know that he taught his son very well and who has installed in me that great things are achieved through hard work.”

For James, the journey is a chance to honorably commemorate the sacrifices made by Australian soldiers, instead of celebrating with alcohol.

“My goal is to inspire others to say ‘Thanks’ to our soldiers by finding a challenge that will truly test themselves physically and mentally, by doing something they have never done before. I see it as a healthier option then binge drinking.”

He knows the journey will not be easy, not only having to content with the physical toll on his body but with anxiety of sharing major highways with vehicles.

“I’d like to be superhuman, but I’ve been hit by cars before and with the latest accidents involving cyclist have me quite worried,” he said.

“Now the Hume Highway has a large shoulder for a cyclist to ride on, but all motorists need to be aware as you are potentially capable of ending a person’s life.

“Then the 90kms from the highway is the most undulating of the ride, so physically this will be the toughest part.”

Waiting at the end of the long journey will be James’ family, including his mother and his 92-year-old grandmother. 

Anzac day has always been a significant day in their family, and there is little doubt today will be even more poignant.

“The sense of achievement can outweigh the pain you feel the next day, here is hoping so,” he said.

Special duty for Private Baker

THIS year PTE Jack Baker of Brisbane and Rifleman with the 2RAR Australian Infantry currently serving in Afghanistan will be raising and lowering the Australian flag at an Anzac Day service overseas.

Jack is on a six month deployment to Afghanistan with the Australian Defence Forces - Operation Slipper for peacekeeping duties and providing security for troop withdrawal and protection of the locals during the election.

Jack joined the Army 12 months ago and is based in Townsville - he was awarded Best Rifleman at Kapooka after his initial training and received the award for the Most Outstanding Soldier at the completion of his training in Singleton.

Jack celebrated his 21st birthday while overseas.

He is the eldest son of Michael and Belinda Baker of Brisbande and the grandson of Roy and Margaret Baker of Young.

Robert returns to Long Tan to pay tribute

EARLIER this month Robert McGlynn performed a very special duty when he laid a wreath at the Australian memorial at Long Tan in Vietnam.

Mr McGlynn, who served with the 4th Batallion of the Royal Australian Regiment, returned to Vietnam as part of a tour in March.

Veterans are invited to lay wreaths at the memorial.