Saturday, 23 April 2022
ANZAC Day on the 25th of April, holds a deep importance in the hearts of Australians. This year marks the 107th anniversary of Australian and New Zealand corps landing at Gallipoli in the First World War.
From it historical roots as a commemoration of our fallen First World War heroes, to an occasion honouring all the brave men and women who have represented Australia in wars throughout our history, the 25th of April remains a deeply significant date.
“ANZAC is not merely about loss. It is about courage, and endurance, and duty, and love of country, and mateship, and good humour and the survival of a sense of self-worth and decency in the face of dreadful odds.” – Sir William Deane, Governor-General of Australia on ANZAC Day 1999
Remembering our Fallen Soldiers on ANZAC Day
Nothing inspires reflection and clears the mind quite like attending a Dawn Service, a cherished ANZAC day ritual for many of us. Standing in the still, cool air you can feel the connection to a silent and somber audience of thousands, all who’ve made the decision to rise early in honour of the special moment. When the last post rings just on dawn, it’s a profound and moving moment for all involved, giving pause to reflect on the complexity and emotion of war.
Take time this ANZAC day to remember those who fought and gave their lives one hundred years ago, honour those who have given their lives for us by practicing the values that represent the ANZAC spirit: endurance, courage, ingenuity, good humour and mateship.
In recent decades, ANZAC celebrations have grown in popularity and the ways to remember have grown more diverse. Whether attending a dawn service, taking part in a minute silence, or lighting a candle in memory; as new generations find ways to pay tribute to those who helped shape our proud history, the ANZAC spirit continues.
Did you know?
- The youngest Australian to enlist in World War I was 14-year-old Private James Charles (Jim) Martin. Jim landed in Gallipoli on 8 September 1915 as part of the 21st He passed away on 25th October from heart failure and was buried at sea.
- A bugle call is a short tune, originating as a military signal announcing scheduled and unscheduled events. Historically, bugles, drums and other loud musical instruments were used for clear communication in the noise and confusion of a battlefield.
The Ode of Remembrance
They shall not grow old, as we that are left grow old;
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.