Australians came together in a moving show of remembrance, defying the chill of the early morning to join dawn services nationwide, honoring the brave souls who served both at home and abroad. Australia’s thrilling dawn services and marches honour the Anzacs. From seasoned veterans to the youngest generations, citizens rose before dawn, united in their reverence for the Anzac soldiers who gave their all for their country.
As solemn ceremonies unfolded across the nation, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese embarked on a heartfelt journey along Papua New Guinea’s Kokoda Track, accompanied by his counterpart, James Marape. Amidst the rugged terrain, Albanese paid tribute to the courageous individuals who once traversed these mountains, reflecting not only on their sacrifices but also on the countless others who have served in conflicts throughout history. Anzac Day serves as a poignant reminder of the unwavering spirit and sacrifice of those who have served, ensuring their legacy lives on in the hearts of Australians for generations to come.
Thursday marks the 109th anniversary of the Gallipoli landing on April 25, 1915, in Turkey, where Australian and New Zealand soldiers, along with British, French, and Indian troops, faced their first major battle of World War One. Defence Minister Richard Marles joins local ceremonies in Gallipoli, acknowledging the 1,500 Australian defence personnel currently deployed on operations and honoring the memory of the more than 103,000 Australians who gave their lives in service of their country.
Across the nation, dawn services and marches were held to commemorate Anzac Day. In Canberra, some 32,000 people gathered at the Australian War Memorial, while in Queensland, surf boats performed a burial at sea at Elephant Rock in Currumbin. Brisbane saw hundreds gathering at Anzac Square in the city’s CBD, with Governor Jeanette Young laying a wreath. In New South Wales, thousands gathered in Sydney’s CBD under a full moon for a solemn pre-dawn service at the near 100-year-old Cenotaph in Martin Place. Victorians turned out in tens of thousands at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, braving chilly temperatures to pay their respects.
In South Australia, the National War Memorial Service commenced at 5:30 am, while in Western Australia, the dawn service at the State War Memorial in Kings Park, Perth, was followed by a gunfire breakfast at Government House Gardens. The march took place at St Georges Terrace from 9 am. In the Northern Territory, a dawn service was held at the Cenotaph at the Esplanade in Darwin ahead of a 9 am parade. Tasmania held a dawn service at 6 am at the Hobart Cenotaph, followed by the Queens Domain main parade and the Hobart main service at the Queens Domain Cenotaph.
Why April 25th? Unveiling the Significance of ANZAC Day
Discover the origins of ANZAC Day, a tribute to the inaugural military action of the Australian and New Zealand armed forces in World War I. On April 25, 1915, ANZAC troops landed on the Gallipoli Peninsula, aiming to seize Constantinople (now Istanbul), the capital of the Ottoman Empire. Amidst their alliance with Britain in the Commonwealth against Germany, over 8,000 Australian soldiers perished during this pivotal campaign.
How Do We Commemorate Anzac Day?
Explore the enduring customs of this day, highlighted by two pivotal events: the dawn memorial service and later marches. Dawn services symbolize the momentous landing at Gallipoli, featuring poignant rituals such as floral tributes, solemn silence, and the haunting strains of “The Last Post” bugle call.
Later, military veterans, their families, and the public converge for parades and formal memorials, held in central locales nationwide. This year, Greek and Cypriot contingents will join the march, adding to the spirit of solidarity and remembrance.
Tune into ABC TV and ABC NEWS channel for live broadcasts of the Gallipoli Dawn Service and other solemn ceremonies, ensuring the legacy of sacrifice endures for generations to come.
For this year’s ANZAC Day commemoration in Lemnos on Friday, April 26, Greece’s Defence Minister, Nikos Dendias, will represent the Greek Government.
The Regional Unit of Lemnos is spearheading the organization of the celebrations. Metropolitan Ierotheos of Lemnos will conduct a memorial service at both the Allied cemeteries of Mudros and Portianos. Following the service, there will be the laying of wreaths, exchanges of greetings, and speeches.
