The reason for the change in location is the recent upgrades in security for all military bases in Australia due to a heightened threat of terrorism.

Finding a suitable long-term venue for the dawn service has proved problematic for the Singleton RSL sub-branch as the original move to the army base was taken to avoid the bats and their associated issues in Burdekin Park.

The town’s cenotaph is located in Burdekin Park and was the site of the two Anzac Day services until a decision was made in 2012 to move the dawn service to the army camp.

Subsequently, the day’s main march and service was moved to the Civic Green due to problems with the park’s bats.

RSL sub-branch president Mick McCrone said the dawn service organisers thought about returning to the park but decided the logistics of moving the seating, sound equipment plus the bats meant they decided to opt for the two services at the one site.

The dawn service will begin at 4.45am and the march at 10.20am at the corner of John and Hunter streets.

Due to the town centre revitalisation work, the march will start at the new location instead of the corner of William and John streets. A new special memorial to be located near the Civic Centre is planned to be operational by Anzac Day.

Singleton School of Infantry Adjutant Captain Andrew Titcume said the school loved staging the dawn service.

“However, with the security upgrades that is no longer possible,” he said.

“Personnel from the base will still be playing an important role in the community services including providing the catafalque party.”

On the subject of defence personnel wearing their uniforms off base, Captain Titcume said the advice from the department was for all personnel to exercise caution and diligence when in uniform and off base.

“I wear my uniform when visiting Singleton and I wear it with pride,” he said.