Thousands gather across the nation to mark Anzac Day

At the break of dawn, Australians across the country came together in solemn gatherings to honour the sacrifices of past and present service men and women on Anzac Day.

In Canberra, amidst the chilling 2-degree weather, a crowd of 32,000 gathered at the Australian War Memorial. Against the backdrop of darkness, letters written by Anzacs during World War I were read aloud, while the names of fallen soldiers illuminated the memorial’s facade. The ceremony, beginning at 5:30 am, included a minute’s silence and the haunting strains of the Last Post.

Army chaplain Phil Riley led the proceedings, reminding attendees of the enduring legacy of the Anzacs.

“At this hour, on this day, 109 years ago, the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps, at Gallipoli, made immortal the name of Anzac and established an imperishable tradition of selfless service,” Riley said.

Notable figures such as Governor-General David Hurley and New Zealand’s High Commissioner Andrew Needs laid wreaths in tribute.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese completed the Kokoda Track alongside Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister James Marape.

Albanese touched on the importance of remembering the sacrifices made by those who served in conflicts.

“Anzac Day has never asked us to exalt in the glories of war,” he said at a dawn service at the Isuvara Memorial.

“Anzac Day asks us to stand against the erosion of time and to hold on to their names, to hold on to their deeds.”

We gather before the dawn for the generations of Australians since Gallipoli who have served in our name.

Every Anzac Day we honour all who have served, and all who continue to serve today.

It is our collective act of remembrance, reflection and gratitude.

Lest we forget. pic.twitter.com/s1oAubXEWg

— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) April 24, 2024

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton also paid his respects, highlighting the bravery and camaraderie displayed by Australian and New Zealand soldiers throughout history. He honoured the memory of the more than 103,000 Australians who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their nation.

“On this sacred day, we honour the memories of the more than 103,000 Australians who made the ultimate sacrifice,” he said.

On Anzac Day, we acknowledge the deeds of all Australians who have served in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations throughout our history.

We honour the memories of the more than 103,000 Australians who made the ultimate sacrifice.

The Anzac spirit has helped us to… pic.twitter.com/QSdICMBtCe

— Peter Dutton (@PeterDutton_MP) April 24, 2024

Anzac Day holds significant importance as a national event in Australia, commemorating the first major military campaign undertaken by Australian and New Zealand forces during the First World War.

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-with AAP.