NSW residents will be able to commemorate ANZAC Day from home this year with a broadcast of special services to honour our veterans and serving Defence personnel.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian said with traditional marches and local memorial services cancelled this year, ANZAC Day has a renewed meaning.
“As our community works together to stop the spread of COVID-19, we draw inspiration from the brave heroes we commemorate on this day,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“One hundred and five years after they set foot on the Gallipoli shore, the ANZACs speak to us more resoundingly than ever. The legend forged more than a century ago guides us in this moment. It inspires us to dig in and look out for others, no matter the obstacles.
“The best way to honour our ANZACs is to echo them, and we will, for the ANZAC spirit lives in each of us. We will remember them.”
The day will begin with a 5:30am commemorative service broadcast from the Australian War Memorial in Canberra, followed by a NSW service at 10am.
The Premier, Governor Margaret Beazley, RSL NSW Acting President Ray James, a bugler and a vocalist will take part in the 30 minute service from the ANZAC Memorial in Hyde Park and the Cenotaph in Martin Place.
Acting Minister for Veterans Geoff Lee said community safety is our top priority.
“Social distancing and staying home is saving lives and so continuing that trend will keep our community and veterans safe,” Mr Lee said.
“Let’s all unite with that Anzac spirit as we pay our respects at home and remember those who bravely made the ultimate sacrifice for us.”
Acting President of RSL, NSW Ray James said despite the pandemic, ANZAC Day is forever embedded in the hearts and minds of Australians.
“Nothing can ever take away the importance of ANZAC Day and what it means to all of us as well as the eternal respect, thanks and admiration the Australian people have for those who protect us,” Mr James said.
The NSW Government is encouraging people to share videos reciting The Ode and post photos on social media using the tag #ANZACspirit.
The NSW service will be broadcast live on ABC TV and streamed on the ANZAC Memorial and RSL Facebook pages. The service will not be open to the public and the community is urged to continue following the latest health advice by commemorating at home.
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