A solemn crowd bowed its heads at Dubbo's Victoria Park yesterday in sombre recognition of those who sacrificed their lives for Australia in times of war and conflict.

The ceremony at the cenotaph was attended by a large group of veterans and various members of the community.

The Remembrance Hymn and a recital of In Flanders Fields by returned serviceman Ron Stevens steered the sobering mood of the service.

Dubbo mayor Mathew Dickerson said Remembrance Day was a commemoration of the fallen.

"Remembrance Day has a much different vibe to Anzac Day," Cr Dickerson said.

"It's a quiet celebration and a time to reflect."

In his service address, Cr Dickerson said Australia lost many of its finest in World War I.

"We were ill-prepared," he said.

"Too many people were lost in a battle which didn't have a clear purpose."

Cr Dickerson said mateship, courage and bravery went hand-in-hand when describing Australia's serving men and women.

"It is important to remember those who are still fighting for our country."

Dozens of wreaths were laid at the base of the cenotaph from members of the community.

Dubbo residents Beth and Olly Ireland were among those who paid their respects.

Mr Ireland, who served in the air force, said it was with a heavy heart he lay a wreath at the cenotaph.

"It's for all of our friends who didn't come home," he said.

Dubbo RSL sub-branch president Tom Gray led the minute's silence, which was followed by a stirring performance of The Last Post.

The winners of the Australia, My Country competition were also given the opportunity to share their poetry pieces.

Student Clare Powyer of Wongarbon Public School read her poem entitled Anzac Day to the crowd.

St John's Primary School student Milla Polley took at different approach to the task, basing her piece on The Battle of Long Tan.

Milla spent a week researching the battle, before she set to work writing.