Veterans and current serving members of the Australian Defence Force are being honoured today with Anzac Day commemorations across NSW.
Minister for Veterans David Harris acknowledged that Anzac Day is a time to come together and pay tribute to the Anzacs who served in World War One, and all the brave servicemen and servicewomen who have since followed in their footsteps.
“Anzac Day gives the community an opportunity to pay their respects to those who have served our country. I attended the Dawn Service in Martin Place this morning for the first time as the Minister for Veterans and it was heartening to see the large crowd honouring the Anzac spirit and paying tribute to the service and sacrifice of our veterans.” Minister Harris said.
At 9am, over 7000 current serving members and veterans, some serving as far back as the Second World War, will begin their march from Martin Place to the Anzac Memorial in Hyde Park Sydney. Spectators will once again line Elizabeth Street in Sydney to honour all Australians who have served.
“If you cannot make it into the Sydney CBD, you can watch the march on ABC TV or attend a local service. I encourage all of NSW to attend a commemorative service, dawn service or march,” Minister Harris added.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander service people will be recognised at the Coloured Digger March this afternoon in Redfern. Now in its 17th year, the event will begin at 1.30pm at the Redfern Community Centre.
“I am honoured to represent two of my portfolios at this afternoon’s ceremony and march. It is an opportunity to recognise the service and sacrifice that current and former Indigenous members of the Australian Defence Force have made since the First World War.”
With thousands of people expected to attend commemorations in the CBD, it is recommended to use public transport for all Anzac Day travel. Extra early morning services will be running to the city.
Free travel is available for current and former Australian Defence Force members and their families on Anzac Day. To access free travel, commuters will need to: be in uniform; display service medals; or, have a War Widows Gold Card or a letter of accreditation from a branch of the RSL or other recognised ex-service organisation.
